The students felt that broadening their horizons by working overseas gives them a better chance of success in their careers . “ I am exposing myself to work that I can do , not just in South Africa . I am trying not to limit myself so that – should anything happen here in South Africa – I can still be an asset elsewhere ,” said one student during a focus-group session . The 30 % who indicated they want to stay behind said they want to assist in growing the economy as they believe the country requires critical skills .
Like many aspects of our lives , COVID-19 has changed learning . The impact was moderate , with 41 % feeling that they battled with no contact during the hard lockdown , 30 % felt more anxious , while 34 % found the shift to e-learning challenging .
“ Generally , the transition to e-learning was a challenge for many students , especially those from historically challenged backgrounds . While 26 % of the students said mobile data was expensive , things are improving , and 48 % say they prefer a hybrid learning approach ,” Nomvethe explains . Cognisant of these challenges , the PPS Foundation provided several higher learning institutions with funds to buy digital devices and internet data for students during the crossover to e-learning .
“ For employers , the survey implies that human resources policies must be adjusted to allow for globally mobile and entrepreneurial graduates . Also , future job seekers will be better prepared for the hybrid world of work where some work online and others physically in the office ,” concludes Nomvethe .
Motshabi Nomvethe , PPS Head of Technical Marketing
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