KUCCPS Suggests Implementing Career Assessments in Junior Schools

KUCCPS Suggests Implementing Career Assessments in Junior Schools

The Kenya University and College Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) has suggested that students be evaluated on potential career paths while attending junior schools.

During the second annual CBC symposium on Wednesday, April 23, Prof John Oluoch, the Director for Placement and Career Development, claimed that this would allow adequate time for learners to plan their career trajectory by selecting appropriate subjects.

“The timing of career assessments is vital, particularly during the Junior School years when students are honing their career aspirations. Evaluations during this stage can assist in focusing their attention and aiding in educational preparation,” he remarked.

“By incorporating these practices and recognising the significance of assessment data, educators can effectively assist students in choosing senior schools and career paths that align with their interests and skills. ”

His views were supported by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Central Careers, Joseph Muraya, who highlighted the need for assessing students before making career decisions.

This, he indicated, would allow students to attain fulfillment in their future careers with an increased likelihood of success, as they would have selected pathways more compatible with them.

He also urged the ministry to prioritise education regarding pathways and placement criteria.

“Students who undergo personality assessments to identify suitable careers are more likely to secure positions that correspond with their strengths and interests, resulting in enhanced job satisfaction and success rates. The Ministry of Education should perform more outreach and education on pathways and placement. ”

In the CBC system, senior secondary school students will need to choose from three pathways that are more closely aligned with their career objectives.

The three pathways consist of Arts and Sports, Social Sciences, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), each offering different subjects.

In the new framework, for example, mathematics will only be mandatory for students in the STEM pathway, a revelation that has sparked division within the country, with experts arguing that this decision will have significant consequences for the students’ futures.

Nonetheless, students will have the opportunity to select up to two pathways to expand their career opportunities.