by Preenan Pillay | Jan 10, 2020 | Courses, Medicine & Health
If you have just matriculated and want to pursue a career in science, you need to have a scientific aptitude. This is according to Preenan Pillay, the head of the programme for Applied Sciences at Pearson Institute of Higher Education.
You need to be enthusiastic and passionate about solving STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) challenges applicable to the world in which we live.
The Faculty of Applied Sciences at Pearson Institute offers Bachelor of Science degrees in biomedicine and biotechnology, two areas of specialisation that offer graduates a great opportunity to contribute to society.
The biomedicine curriculum focuses on the study of the human body and human diseases, with the aim of providing a foundation for students to research and develop new diagnostic tests and methods to alleviate disease.
“If you study it, you will develop a broad theoretical foundation in human physiology, molecular biology, medical microbiology, histology, haematology and pharmacology, with an emphasis on application-based research and the use of technology,” he explained.
The biotechnology curriculum is centred on the use of microbial systems such as bacteria and viruses in developing biological methods for industrial and medical applications. Biotechnology is the merging of science and engineering concepts involving microbiology, chemistry, genetics, cell biology, bioethics, gene cloning, bioinstrumentation, bioinformatics, genomics and biometrics.
These professions are steeped in science. All learners aspiring to change the world through biomedicine or biotechnology will need three fundamentals at matric – biology, physics and mathematics.
“If you have a passion for the application of biology, then these fields are for you,” he added. “Physics and mathematics are also important and provide the critical thinking skills you will need to apply in the sciences,” said Pillay.
These two undergraduate BSc degrees open up a world of opportunity for students both locally and abroad. “Many of our students have gone on to enter postgraduate programmes at various national and international institutions. The portfolios we offer are vast and the research we involve our students in gives them the edge that is sought after at international institutions for postgraduate studies.”
According to Pillay, the scientific industry in South Africa has changed completely. He said that students now need to adopt a transdisciplinary approach. “In South Africa and many other countries, employment rates have declined. This is due to the changes brought about by the fourth industrial revolution and it is, therefore, imperative that an undergraduate curriculum allows the student to develop critical thinking skills that can be applied to any sector. This can be achieved only through undergraduate research and development.”
He said their graduates are employed across various sectors, which include the medical scientific profession, biopharmaceutical marketing, sales, academia and quality assurance.
“Our unique degrees in biological sciences prepare you for varied careers in a rapidly advancing and exciting world grounded in technology, research, exploration and innovation,” said Pillay.
With a focus on technology-enhanced, interactive lecture-led and work integrated learning, as well as directed research-based assessments, study offers an environment that combines theory, research and practical application.
“It’s not your run-of-the-mill bachelor’s degree,” he said. “Even our industry partners have told me how much they appreciate our incorporation of skills commonly found in the field of humanities and economics. This helps our students apply their knowledge and integrate in many facets of this industry.”
He advised students who don’t have a passion for STEM and learning that the sciences are probably not for them.
“This is a field which builds on a foundation of continuous learning. Be prepared to be learning for the rest of your career. That’s what it means to be a scientist,” said Pillay.
Preenan Pillay is the head of the programme for Applied Sciences at Pearson Institute of Higher Education
by The Independent Institute of Education | Dec 14, 2019 | Courses
The exams are over, the holidays are here. As thousands of matrics from the Class of 2019 take a well-deserved break, excitement will start to build for those who are preparing to start their first year at university and a new phase of life as a young adult.
But what about the many matriculants who were so busy with the business of their last year at school that they either neglected to consider their post-school options or simply couldn’t manage to get all the university application admin done in time, or those who didn’t consider further study but have now had a change of heart?
“Now that all the work and stress of the exams are behind them, and as the view turns to the future, many matriculants are finding themselves in a situation where they have no real plan or focus for the coming year,” said Wonga Ntshinga, the senior head of Programme: Faculty of ICT at The Independent Institute of Education.
“This can be very unsettling – facing the blank canvas of the future while around you your peers are buzzing about going to study next year, campus life and their excitement about joining the world of work after graduation. But many may not realise that they still have options to put things in place for next year and that they don’t need to consider 2020 a write-off,” he said.
“So, if you were feeling left out, the good news is that you can still get a great strategy in place for next year, to kick-start your future.”
Ntshinga said that although registration for study at public universities are now closed, prospective students who have left it too late still have options for pursuing their interests at private higher education institutions that still accept applications during December.
“Your situation might even be a blessing in disguise because prospective students are increasingly opting for studies at respected private institutions, because of their work-readiness approach and smaller class sizes. There is also a great focus on employability and guidance before, during and after studies,” he added.
In addition, it should be kept in mind that South Africa has a single quality assurance system and one National Qualifications Framework, so any institution offering a registered and accredited qualification – whether public or private – is offering a qualification of comparable standards and equal standing.
Ntshinga said those who are keen to study next year but haven’t enrolled yet, should do their research and go speak to a student advisor at a respected institution about the best course of action.
Available options:
Enrol for a short course
“You don’t have to commit to a three-year degree if you are not yet sure what you want to do career-wise. But at the very least, commit to developing your skills and not stagnating. There is a wide range of courses in a variety of fields, all of which will allow you to get your foot in the door in the world of work,” said Ntshinga.
“Doing a short course will also allow you to both explore and refine your interests and could lead to you identifying exactly what it is you want to do with your life if you haven’t been sure until now.”
Enrol for a Higher Certificate
A one-year higher certificate provides an excellent foundation and allows students to attain a full qualification while mastering the essential skills needed for higher education success.
“A higher certificate is also a good option for those matrics who do not expect to achieve a Bachelor’s pass, as it gives access to degree study,” he said.
“With this qualification a student can enter the world of work after only a year of study, which is great news for those who may need to earn while they learn. Higher certificates are on offer across a wide range of disciplines and fields, so make sure that you opt for one that aligns with your career aspirations and which will allow you to enrol for degree study later if you so choose.”
Degree study
A good private higher education institution will have a range of registered and accredited qualifications very much like those on offer at public universities, and some additional qualifications uniquely geared towards the future of work.
“It is worth keeping in mind that a degree from a respected private institution is highly regarded among employers, particularly where the institution has a reputation for producing work-ready graduates who can make a positive contribution from day one, rather than having to struggle to translate the theory they learnt at university into real-life application. After you have identified qualifications that look like a match for you, visit the institution, speak to a student advisor and commit to a path that will set you up for a successful future,” said Ntshinga.
The Independent Institute of Education
by Oxbridge Academy | Nov 8, 2019 | Courses, Education
Despite South Africa’s massive unemployment crisis, there remains great demand for suitably qualified employees in a range of fields. At the same time, there are thousands of young people who are convinced that gaining the necessary skills to fill these positions is out of their reach for many reasons that are often based on incorrect perceptions.
“When people think of further study, they often think that the only worthwhile option is degree study at a public university. This could not be further from the truth,” said Elbie Liebenberg, the managing director of Oxbridge Academy, which serves more than 20 000 South African distance-learning students every year.
She said there are misperceptions about study options that result in the unfortunate situation that young people give up hope too soon, without realising their personal and professional potential.
“We would like to urge learners, and those who have already left school, with no idea (of) where to go from here, to consider whether they are being held back because of false beliefs about their own abilities and the conviction that there are no opportunities out there,” Liebenberg said.
She said it is usually one or a combination of the following myths that cause individuals to not pursue further study:
MYTH 1: I am not smart enough
“Our society focuses on the high achievers – the Master’s and doctoral graduates who perform in their respective fields. For many of us, degree and postgraduate study is indeed not the right path. However, there are thousands of companies and small-to-medium businesses that need the skills required to do specific jobs in specific fields where a vocational qualification is more desirable than, for instance, a Bachelor’s degree.
“So if you thought studying meant going to university, that that is the only worthwhile option, you are quite mistaken.”
Liebenberg said that there are hundreds of vocational qualifications that are accessible even to young people who did not pass matric or passed without university exemption. She added that people who have no idea about what to do with their future should make an effort to investigate courses available at accredited institutions.
“Do some online research, and investigate the qualifications on offer. Make sure that you check out online testimonials, because there you will find the opinions of people just like you.
“Importantly, make sure that the promise of the institution and the testimonials of alumni align.”
MYTH 2: Even graduates don’t get jobs
“Young people are often, and understandably, despondent about their chances in the job market, given our high unemployment rate,” said Liebenberg.
“But this is because there is too much focus on the ‘prestige’ of a degree versus the utility of a vocational qualification. There is a plethora of fields where employers want to see proof of competency, instead of an unrelated degree,” she said.
These include, but are not limited to, certain positions in advertising and marketing, bookkeeping and accounting, business management, early childhood development, call centre operations, human resources management, occupational health and safety, project management, secretarial fields, tourism and hospitality, and supply chain and logistics.
MYTH 3: Anything less than a degree means I will be forever stuck in an entry-level job
“A first qualification is just that – a foot in the door,” said Liebenberg.
“Once you’ve committed to your personal and professional development, you will find that your confidence builds and that the future becomes your oyster.”
Liebenberg pointed out that many people go on to become entrepreneurs and start their own small businesses after mastering the technical requirements of a field.
“If you can determine where your passion lies, there is almost certainly a path you can follow to realise your dreams, regardless of your current circumstances or beliefs about your abilities,” she said.
Liebenberg said young people are sometimes afraid of failure because they have “failed before. This leads to a lack of self-confidence and self-belief, as well as feelings of low self-worth.
“These young people doubt their own capabilities and give up too early because they simply do not see any light at the end of the tunnel. But every year, thousands of these demotivated individuals find a glimmer of hope and give their future a chance by taking that first step on the road to empowerment.
“In these cases, we have seen how action begets action and the formerly despondent start to flourish. We want to urge young people and the adults around them – the teachers, the parents and the guardians – to not give up hope on their dreams and aspirations, particularly where the loss of hope is a result of negative beliefs about self or pessimism about future opportunity.”
Supplied by Oxbridge Academy.
by Des Squire | Oct 24, 2019 | Courses, Jobs
THE education and training sector is undergoing major changes, which has resulted in a lot of speculation regarding its future.
Some good things are happening and are likely to happen over the next few months and years. In particular, I love the idea of a Grade 9 point of exit for a learner who feels that a technical education will be more appropriate than an academic education. Everyone involved in education, training and skills development has, as Theo Garrun, the former Workplace editor, said: “a vital task on their hands and need to change their mindset if they want South African to compete on the global stage”. My appeal is let us work together to get it right once and for all. Raymond Patel, a former CEO of merSETA, speaking at the World Skills Competition in Canada said: “It is clear we spend too much time and effort training the softer skills, while what is needed is an emphasis on the trades and technology based skills that are sorely needed in our economy.”
To get back on track, now is the time for change. Now is the time for all parties to ensure that we deal with current issues in order to take care of future requirements and global developments. We need to get the education, training and skills development effort working for the good of all role-players. However, to do so requires communication by all parties, where all parties start listening to try to understand the other point of view. The future of education and training in South Africa requires an all-inclusive approach where articulation is permitted, but above all encouraged and understood by all. We are in a transition phase and transition requires a large degree of expression.
The following recommendations are made to help improve things:
by Level up | Sep 27, 2019 | Computer & IT , Courses
Today’s world is a digital one, where technology touches every aspect of our business and personal lives. Information has become the currency of the new economy and businesses are scrambling to find the digital skills they need to survive.
This alone is making a career in information and communication technology (ICT) a compelling option for many school leavers, but it is far from the only reason the sector is an excellent choice.
Gary Bannatyne, the managing director and co-founder of Level Up, discusses 10 top reasons for pursuing a career in ICT.
• Technology is an incredibly wide field with a huge variety of career choices. It is highly diverse and goes well beyond IT support or fixing PCs. A foundational course in ICT enables students to steer their careers in a number of different directions, from architects and engineers to mobile or web developers.
• There are also a number of C-level roles in ICT, including chief technical officer, chief information officer and chief digital officer. Essentially, graduates can specialise in their area of interest. Because this is one sector where the pace of change is unprecedented, they are unlikely to get bored or become stagnant.
• Jobs in the tech space are generally well-paid, as the job market and demand for skills is constantly growing. The digital skills gap is highly publicised, so those with the right skills can almost cherry-pick the organisations they prefer to work for.
• A large part of any course or programme will be hands-on and practical. Those who fear growing bored with endless theory need not worry, as there are plenty of opportunities to write code and make cool things. While knowledge is crucial in any career, learning is both easier and more enjoyable when you can see what you’re learning by applying that knowledge.
• Another good reason for studying ICTs is that it is more flexible than most. If you’re a team player, there are many roles in ICT that enable you to do just that. If you prefer working solo, there are a number of jobs out there that require this. Technology never sleeps, so many roles allow you to work according to your schedule and preferences. never sleeps, so many roles allow you to work according to your schedule and preferences. Being able to structure your work and personal life according to your specific needs leads to a happier and more satisfying life too.
• There are also opportunities to earn on the side, as many ICT professionals start and run small IT businesses on the side, in addition to their full-time jobs. This not only helps grow your skills faster, but helps supplement your income and could just see you being the next founder of a successful start-up.
• In a digital world, management professionals need to have a basic knowledge of software and hardware to be able to talk the language of technology. Those who don’t understand technology on a foundational level will find it difficult to manage techies and information risks being lost in translation.
• One of the greatest areas of potential is for technology to create new behaviour or systems, as opposed to simply changing the way things are done.
• Technology plays a vital role in the business world, providing the tools and functions on which most organisations across the world run. It helps generate new products and services, which in turn improves productivity, output and innovation.
• The need for ICT professionals will only grow over time. The better your skill set, the more in demand your experience will be.
Supplied by InnoCom on behalf of Level up.
by SPONSORED | Sep 20, 2019 | Courses
One of the biggest mistakes prospective students can make is to enrol for a qualification based not on a realistic assessment of their personal strengths and interests, but on outdated ideas of what was historically considered the best or most prestigious course of action, an education expert has said.
Felicity Coughlan, a director at The Independent Institute of Education, one of South Africa’s largest private higher education providers, said: “Deciding what you want to study and where, must be based on a thorough analysis of what the job market looks for in employees, which skills will be in high demand in coming years and how they translate into the qualifications and curriculums offered by respected institutions.”
She noted that the time and money students are going to invest in their studies will be substantial, so it should be logical that they investigate their options properly before they decide.
“Yet so many prospective students set themselves up for disappointment and failure because they sign up for something based on perceptions of prestige, rather than prospects of success,” Coughlan said.
“While it might feel good for a while to tell people you are studying to become X at university Y, the reality is that you may come down to earth really quickly if your expectations do not match reality, particularly upon graduation when you may find that employers are searching for work-ready graduates rather than ones only well versed in theory or that there are few job opportunities in your chosen field.”
She said career options have evolved dramatically and substantially over the past decade. She advised that students and their parents should keep that in mind when investigating what to study and where.
“New career paths are opening up, which were not even considered five years ago – for instance digital and social media marketing, game design and development, mobile app development, digital media law as a specialisation, climate change specialisation and so forth.
“Ongoing automation and online platforms continue to change the career options for young people, so both parents and future students should consider this when choosing an institution and qualification.
“It is natural for a learner who performed academically to want to consider entering a field considered a match for their mental prowess, but if that career choice is not a good fit in terms of a person’s passion, personality the potential career opportunities in coming years, we would highly advise a reconsideration of their approach.
Coughlan said parents and guardians must help their children with this important decision with a clear mind, because too often there is still pressure to make the obvious choice, rather than the smart one.
“At the end of the day, you don’t want your child to sit at home with a prestigious qualification but no job. While certain qualifications are somewhat anachronistically still considered elite qualifications, the ones that really boost one’s chances of career success are the ones that develop transferable and travellable skills.”
It is also important to note that the offering at various institutions differ substantially, whether it be at a public or private university.
“All accredited degrees, regardless of whether the institution is public or private, are put through the same accreditation process and are, therefore, equivalent. So, prospective students are really spoilt for choice when the time comes to find the right qualification match. However, instead of just going for what their friends are doing or what they think will confer the most status, they should look for future-facing, work focused-qualifications that will give them the edge and the best chance of success when entering the job market.
“While this may require a mindset change for many, doing the work now to find the best fit for an individual at an institution with the best track record for work-integrated learning and industry alignment is small investment that will ultimately come with big returns.”
Supplied by Meropa Communications
