0
0
The Honorable Chairperson of the Kenya National Association of Private Colleges (KENAPCO), Dr. Ekrah Ndung’u, is a staunch advocate of the philosophy that one’s candle can never go out by lighting another’s. Driven by this strong conviction, Dr. Ekrah is dedicated to empowerment, mentorship, and motivation, consistently viewing challenges as opportunities for growth.
Recently, Dr. Ekrah joined over 30 professionals from diverse fields in an ambitious mentorship program at Karima Girls. The professionals were stationed in different classes where students could visit based on their interests.
Dr. Ekrah focused on guiding students interested in foreign languages. She emphasized the importance of early career guidance, stating, “Let us mold them and give them the career guidance they need at the earliest stage. Career guidance is something many people overlook in their pre-teen years, but it’s crucial for helping kids understand the environment of different professions and to think about their future careers.”
She elaborated on the necessity of career guidance, explaining that it helps students prepare for their future by providing practical advice on job interviews, specific job duties, job search strategies, workplace skills, and increasing their chances of employment. Dr. Ekrah highlighted that in today’s world, with a plethora of career options available due to advanced educational facilities, career guidance helps students choose careers that align with their interests, aptitude, and abilities. This guidance boosts their confidence and empowers them to make informed decisions regarding their educational and career paths.
Dr. Ekrah noted that career guidance is essential for students to develop a clear understanding of their career objectives from a young age, aiding them in making the right decisions for their future. She cited research showing that students who receive career guidance are more likely to achieve their goals than those who do not. For instance, a study by the National Center for Education Statistics found that students who received career guidance before their senior year of high school were more likely to attend college, earn a degree, and secure employment upon graduation.
The objectives of career guidance are multifaceted:
- Fulfillment and Success: Helping students find careers that will be fulfilling and teaching them the skills needed to succeed in those careers.
- Skill and Knowledge Development: Assisting students in acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge for career development.
- Self-Assessment: Helping students consider their interests, abilities, and goals.
- Action Planning: Developing a course of action for achieving career goals.
- Counselor Support: Equipping counselors with the tools to help students make informed decisions about their future.
To achieve these objectives, Dr. Ekrah emphasized the importance of providing adequate career guidance services in schools and ensuring that school counselors are trained in career guidance techniques.
Dr. Ekrah concluded, “The importance of career guidance is beyond question. It offers counselors the opportunity to help students face the challenges of their professional lives with self-confidence and security. Schools must provide these services to help students navigate their futures effectively.”
