Whatshot
Walking the Academic Road Together
Walking the Academic Road Together
More than 40% of first year South African university students drop out in their first year of study, a significant number of them young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Of the 2015 first-year intake at one local tertiary institution, only 18.5% first years were rated at a proficiency level where no support was needed. The gulf between high school and further studies is daunting and many students founder with little or no academic, social or emotional support to navigate the dangerous waters. Many of the students face technological challenges, the mysterious world of how to research and how to use libraries. There are language obstacles and the transition from economically deprived environments to an academic one, which is well-resourced and moving at a First World pace.
In addition to providing access to funding for tertiary qualifications, living and travel allowances and educational resources, The Domino Foundation's Skills Development programme has a broader vision than to merely offer tertiary study financial resources. The programme aims to create a platform where disadvantaged individuals are empowered and equipped to reach their full potential.
Brad King, leader of the Skills Development programme, commented, "The journey to academic success can be a very lonely and frightening one for our bursary recipients. We support and walk alongside candidates through a mentorship programme to ensure they have the confidence, knowledge and tools to complete their studies and then to seek employment."
Four of the young people on bursaries this year, two pursuing studies in Education, one in Media and Communications and the fourth in Dental Therapy, are grateful for the one-to-one mentoring they have received. This is at the core of the programme is that takes place between the student and trained field workers. The mentor is available to support, assist and guide the student throughout their studies. Regular meetings are held where advice and guidance are offered, and an opportunity to review the student's implementation of the skills learned through the Skills Development's mentorship programme. The student's performance is monitored, their student costs are overseen.
Patrick Nzimande, the first student on the programme in 2016, said, "I never realised what a challenge studying at university would be. My mentor was crucial to my being able to keep on going against very great odds and was always available to offer solutions to the obstacles which might have seemed insurmountable otherwise."
Brad extended an invitation to people with either general Life Skills qualifications or who are equipped in tertiary study guidance to contact him about being part of the mentorship team. "We need to see our bursary recipients not only get their diploma or degree. We want to see them entering the job market with a confidence that they have what it takes out there in a very demanding world."