Make Use of Training Opportunities in Jamaica!
Anisa Wilson Smith
It was Nelson Mandela who said: “Education is the most powerful weapon that can be used to change the world!” One of my favourite gems as a child was: “Labour for learning before you grow old for learning is better than silver and gold. Silver and gold will vanish away, but a good education will never decay!”
I want to use this opportunity to appeal to Jamaican youth to develop a love and appreciation for lifelong learning. Learning helps you to grow mentally and intellectually and helps you to become a better citizen. The purpose of learning is to help you gain new insights, develop your skills and abilities, give you a positive mental attitude, develop character, social and emotional competencies etc.
Learning is important for your advancement in any career in which you choose to engage. You will need to learn the technical and soft skills of your chosen area of study. To help you decide on the learning pathway you should take; you will need to follow these steps:
• Please, do a self-assessment. Ask yourself the following questions: what am I naturally good at? What activities do I enjoy? What are my favourite subjects? What type of personality do I have?
• Do an online career test to help you decide on career paths that best suits your personality e.g. Holland’s Personality Test
• Do your research to find schools that offer studies in your areas of interest
• Mobilize or secure the needed resources you will need for school
• Enrol in school
Let me use this opportunity to encourage you to do comprehensive research on the various courses offered by our National Training Agency – HEART Trust NSTA. Many opportunities exist for your training and development. I encourage you to also research your local foundations, for example, NCB Foundation, to access educational courses.
In my next article, I will explore ideas with you about how you can access opportunities.
Always remember to find and maintain inner peace despite your external circumstances.
See you next time!
