In today's rapidly changing world, CPDs play a vital role in helping individuals navigate their educational and career paths. This is especially important for learners with disabilities, as they may face unique challenges when trying to access and succeed in the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system. To effectively support these learners, Career Development Practitioners must possess the knowledge and skills necessary to provide appropriate guidance and support services.
The provision of career guidance for persons with disabilities in South Africa requires a refined and tailored approach to meet the diverse needs of individuals. By empowering individuals with disabilities to develop their skills and abilities, they can enhance their chances of successfully transitioning into the workforce and achieving their career goals. This empowerment is facilitated by taking a person-centered approach, which involves actively listening to clients, understanding their unique challenges, preferences, and involving them in decision-making processes. Recognising the diversity within disabilities is paramount, as it encompasses both visible and invisible disabilities, each requiring different forms of support. Therefore, practitioners must be mindful of these differences and tailor their services accordingly to ensure that each client receives the necessary care and assistance.
Learners with intellectual disabilities, for instance, often face challenges in obtaining traditional academic qualifications such as Grade 9 or Grade 12. In response, career development interventions should focus on providing alternative pathways for learning and skills development that are better suited to their abilities and strengths. Vocational programs offer a variety of practical studies, including office practice, hairdressing, hospitality, and motor mechanics, among others, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Additionally, enrolling in skills programs at Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Community Education and Training Colleges allows learners to continue their education and pursue career advancement opportunities aligned with their interests and abilities.
To ensure effective career guidance, practitioners must ask relevant questions to assess learners' abilities, challenges, interests, strengths, career aspirations, and support systems. This person-centered approach enables the creation of tailored career development plans that focus on individual strengths and abilities, fostering confidence, motivation, and independence in navigating the post-school education and training (PSET) system.
For learners who complete Grade 9 or Grade 12, various PSET options are available, including TVET Colleges or universities. These institutions provide support services such as assistive technologies and accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to access information and succeed in their studies and training. Moreover, collaboration with disability stakeholders, government departments, and civil society organisations is essential for gaining a better understanding of the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and accessing resources to support their career development.
Developing a database of disability and community organisations, as well as educational institutions, can serve as a valuable resource for practitioners when referring clients to relevant stakeholders for additional support. Moreover, utilising classification systems of disabilities, such as the Department of Higher Education Classification Model, can aid in better understanding the various categories of disabilities and providing targeted assistance.
In conclusion, effective career guidance for persons with disabilities in South Africa requires a collaborative, person-centered approach that acknowledges diversity and tailors support services to individual needs. By empowering individuals with disabilities to pursue their career aspirations, practitioners play a crucial role in promoting inclusivity and equality in the education and employment system.
Resources for Career Practitioners
Strategic Policy Framework on Disability for the PSET System: https://www.dhet.gov.za/SiteAssets/Gazettes/Approved%20Strategic%20Disab...
Career Development Practitioners Guide: https://www.careerhelp.org.za/sites/default/files/career_development_pra...
Post-School Publication: https://www.careerhelp.org.za/sites/default/files/khetha_psp_2017_0.pdf SA Youth employment registration:https://www.facebook.com/SAYouth.mobi/posts/youth-with-disabilities-get-...
National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) (https://ncpd.org.za/)
They have various programmes and services that support persons with disabilities such as:
- Inclusive Employment
- Enterprise development
- Vava iYouth programme.
- Job Preparation Program
See our contact details below:
Telephone: 086 999 0123
Please call me / sms: 072 204 5056
Fax: 012 323 1138
Email: careerhelp@dhet.gov.za
Website: www.careerhelp.org.za
National Career Advice Portal (NCAP): http://ncap.careerhelp.org.za/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/careerhelp
Compiled by Abigail Baloyi