A Milestone for Career Guidance in Zambia
Today marked an important milestone for Speak & Soar: Career Guidance for Zambia's Next Generation — a project under the Chapters program, one of the programs of The Forge.
The team successfully conducted its first school engagement at Shampande Secondary School in Choma, where 135 learners participated in an interactive learning and sharing session focused on life after Grade 12, career pathways, skills development, entrepreneurship, and the opportunities available to young people in Zambia.
The team was warmly received by the school's Guidance Department, which coordinated and organised the learners for the session.
Career Opportunities & Wise Decision-Making — Madam Rhodah Mwanza
Madam Rhodah Mwanza facilitated a session on career opportunities and wise career decision-making. She emphasised the importance of choosing careers based on one's strengths, passions, interests and abilities.
Using the analogy of the human body — a hand, a leg, the head and the eyes each functioning independently yet collectively — she explained that society functions because different people serve in different capacities. Every profession has value and dignity.
Skills & Vocational Pathways — Mr. Gift Simweene
Mr. Gift Simweene led discussions on skills and vocational education pathways. He encouraged learners to understand that not progressing directly to university is not the end of one's journey, and highlighted the opportunities available through skills training and vocational education.
He also challenged the stigma that often surrounds technical and vocational careers, and encouraged academically gifted learners to consider acquiring practical skills alongside their studies.
Sponsorship & Financing Opportunities — Madam Dorcus Habamba
Madam Dorcus Habamba spoke about sponsorship and financing opportunities available to learners who wish to pursue further education through university or technical institutions. She introduced learners to HELSB, TEVET and Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Skills Bursaries, among others.
Entrepreneurship & Personal Development — Mr. Dalitsani Banda
Mr. Dalitsani Banda challenged learners to dedicate time to an honest review of themselves — identifying their aspirations, strengths, weaknesses, challenges and goals — and to begin intentionally working towards becoming the people they desire to be.
He also informed the learners of the forthcoming launch of 'The Forge — Choma Chapter', which will provide a platform through which learners can freely engage with Forge Ambassadors.
"Talent is universal, but opportunity is not. Speak & Soar exists to help close that gap."