Career day promotes ‘lifelong learning’

By Ilia L. Likou 10 September 2017, 12:00AM

Students were given a glimpse of possible future careers at the T.A.T.T.E Building on Friday thanks to the Samoa Qualifications Authority’s (S.Q.A) National Career Day.

Guided by the theme “Lifelong  Learning,” the event attracted students from all over Upolu. The theme emphasized the fact that learning is a lifetime activity and that learning does not stop at a particular age. 

Students were also encouraged that there are many paths available to reaching a person’s goal. This includes Post School Education and Training (P.S.E.T).

Acting Chief Executive Officer of S.Q.A, Mata’utia Taua Taioalo, said the event is extremely important to prepare young people for what’s up ahead.

 “Exploring options and available occupations and gathering information in terms of subject linkage from secondary schools to P.S.E.T is important and setting goals is also crucial,” Mata’utia said.

“Support of parents and workplaces is also vital.”

A unique feature of the S.Q.A Career Day is the involvement of P.S.E.T Providers.

“Students must value being educated and they have to choose their subjects wisely in connection with the careers they are aspiring to,” he said.

The day was also an opportunity for industries, employers, government ministries, organisations and professional bodies to market what they offer.

“These of course, all assist and are very important in career planning and career decision making.”

Mata’utia urged students to make the right career decision and follow their interests.

 “The terms job, career, and occupation are often used interchangeably. 

“To be specific, a job is what you show for work; a career spans your lifetime and includes your education, training, professional memberships, volunteering and your full history of paid work. 

“An occupation describes a type of work with associated tasks, education and training, typical wages, work settings, and more.” 

This is the third year S.Q.A. has hosted their National Career Day.

By Ilia L. Likou 10 September 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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