Young people in South Africa have a number of post matric opportunities provided by government to improve their lives. 
Vuk'uzenzele has compiled a list of options to explore.
Second chance programme
If you did not pass matric or dropped out of high school, the Department of Basic Education’s Second Chance Programme enables you to earn your National Senior Certificate.
The Second Chance programme supports anyone who wants to achieve or improve a matric qualification, subject-by-subject and on a part-time basis. There are no costs involved.
Who qualifies? People who want to improve their matric results, who failed matric and want a second chance at passing, and those who left school after passing Grade 9 (then Standard 7), are 21 or older.
Register at one of the more than 70 district education offices across the country or online at www.eservices.gov.za. Registration closes on 31 January 2022.
Email: SecondChance@dbe.gov.za, or visit www.education.gov.za (click on Programmes, Second Chance Programme).
SAYouth
An exciting initiative launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in June 2021 is SAYouth. It is part of the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention and aims to link young people to jobs and work experiences.
Young people can find out about job, learnership, bursary, work experience and entrepreneurial opportunities in their area on www.sayouth.mobi, which is free to use on mobile phones. Call 0800 727 272.
Become an entrepreneur
The Small Enterprise Development Agency develops, supports and promotes small enterprises throughout the country. It can guide people on how to start their own businesses – from business plans, to where to get funding, to registering your business. Call 0860 663 7867, email info@seda.org.za, or visit www.seda.org.za
TVET colleges
Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges offer education and training that prepares students for a range of jobs, employment or entrepreneurial possibilities.
To find out more, visit www.tvetcolleges.co.za.
The National Artisan Development and Support Centre provides artisan career guidance. It also offers information related to accredited trade test centres and skills development providers. Call 086 999 0125, email nadscinfo@dhet.gov.za, or visit https://nadsc.dhet.gov.za
Bursaries
If you want to become a teacher, apply for a Funza Lushaka bursary. Applications close on 1 February, 2022. First-time applicants must be 30 years or younger. Visit www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za
To learn about other bursary opportunities, visit www.careerhelp.org.za/funding, www.allbursaries.co.za, or www.zabursaries.co.za
SETA learnerships
Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA) offer learnerships at different times of the year. There are no costs in applying for these learnerships and you are also paid while you are doing the learnership.
Learnerships combine workplace experience with formal training so you will get a formal qualification and have real work experience.
To find out more, visit www.dhet.gov.za/ and click on SETAs.
NYDA
The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) provides career guidance services, mentorship, skills development and training, business management training, and entrepreneurial development and support. Call 087 158 4742, email info@nyda.gov.za or visit www.nyda.gov.za/
Khetha
Government’s Khetha programme provides career information, advice and counselling services. Call 086 999 0123, email careerhelp@dhet.gov.za or go to www.facebook.com/careerhelp. Here you will be able to access webinars, bursaries and other opportunities.
Another great resource is www.skillsportal.co.za (click on Education).
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