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Tips to determine if your course is marketable

1. Research Job Market Demand:

One of the first steps in evaluating the marketability of a course is to assess the demand for professionals in that field. Keep an eye out for job advertisements in newspapers, online job listing sites, and industry-specific platforms. If you find a scarcity of job openings or a lack of ads related to your course, it could be an indication of limited demand. Conversely, if there is a growing need for professionals in your chosen field, it suggests better marketability. For example, if you see government recruitment drives, like the Kenyan government actively hiring new teachers, it indicates a demand for education-related professionals.

2. Assess Entrepreneurial Opportunities:

Consider whether the skills and knowledge gained from your course can be leveraged to start your own business. Look around your environment and evaluate if there are potential entrepreneurial avenues that align with your course. Conduct thorough research beyond your immediate surroundings, utilizing tools like Google, to explore opportunities and business models. Courses that provide practical skills and knowledge applicable to various industries can increase your chances of setting up a successful business, even without relying on traditional employment.

READ ALSO : Top 20 High-Paying Careers in Demand for The Next 10 Years

3. Determine Career Path and Specialization:

Examine if the course you're interested in offers a clear career path or the opportunity to specialize in a particular area. General courses, such as anthropology, may provide valuable knowledge but can sometimes lack a defined career trajectory. Specialized courses tend to have better marketability as they cater to specific industry needs and often align with current job market demands. Look for programs that offer clear pathways and opportunities for growth within your chosen field.

4. Consider Technological Advancements:

Assess the potential impact of technological advancements on the course you plan to pursue. Rapid advancements in fields like artificial intelligence, robotics, and automation can significantly affect certain industries and job roles. Ask yourself if the skills you'll acquire during your studies are likely to become obsolete in the next 20+ years. It's crucial to choose a course that embraces technology or provides transferrable skills that can adapt to evolving trends. Courses that integrate technology, digital literacy, and innovative practices are generally more marketable in the long run.

5. Evaluate Global Employability:

Think about the employment opportunities your degree can provide beyond your immediate location. Consider degrees with a global reach, such as IT-related, medical, or education degrees, which often have high employability worldwide. Certain professions, like those in the technology sector, have a strong demand internationally. Assess if your chosen course can open doors to opportunities outside your country and increase your chances of finding employment in diverse settings.

By following these five tips, you can gain valuable insights into the marketability of the course you plan to pursue. Remember to thoroughly research, evaluate future trends, and consider both local and global employment opportunities. Ultimately, choosing a marketable course will increase your chances of success and enhance your career prospects in the long run.

READ ALSO : Top 10 Most Prestigious Universities in Kenya

A student struggling to make career choices

📢 Are you a Form 4 Leaver and struggling to choose the right course on the KUCCPS placement portal? 🎓 Here are key factors to consider, in order of priority:

1️⃣ Course Minimum Subject Requirements: Make sure you meet the necessary subject prerequisites for the course you're interested in. For example, if you want to study engineering, ensure you have a strong foundation in math and physics.

2️⃣ Previous Years' Course Cut-off Points: Research the cut-off points from previous years to get an idea of the competition and your chances of getting into your desired program. It can give you an indication of the demand for that particular course.

3️⃣ Cost of the Program: Consider the financial aspect of your chosen course. Tuition fees can vary significantly between universities and programs. For instance, pursuing Medicine at Egerton University may be 40% cheaper than at the University of Nairobi. Analyze your budget and assess if you can afford the program.

READ ALSO : May 2023 : The TOP 10 Most Prestigious Public Universities in Kenya

4️⃣ Passion and Interests: Follow your passion and interests when selecting a course. Choosing something you genuinely enjoy will make your studies more fulfilling and increase your chances of success. For example, if you love working with numbers and problem-solving, consider pursuing a degree in mathematics or computer science.

5️⃣ Clear Path to Self-Employment: In an era of high unemployment, it's wise to consider courses that offer a clear path to self-employment or entrepreneurship. Look for programs that equip you with skills that are in demand in the job market or provide opportunities to start your own business.

6️⃣ Avoid General Courses with No Clear Career Path: Be cautious of selecting general courses without a clear career path or specialty. For instance, a Bachelor of Science degree might be too broad and may not offer a focused career trajectory. Instead, opt for courses that offer specialized knowledge and skills, such as Data Science.

7️⃣ Course Demand: Check if there is a demand for the course you're interested in. Look for job advertisements and industry trends to gauge the demand for professionals in that field. For example, if you notice a high number of job postings for software developers, it indicates a strong demand in the tech industry.

8️⃣ Consider the Future: Take into account the impact of technology on certain professions. Some jobs are being phased out or transformed due to automation and advancements in artificial intelligence. Ensure your chosen course has relevance and will remain valuable in the future.

9️⃣ Consider Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Align yourself with global issues and consider courses that address major challenges facing the world. Examples include studying fields related to hunger, health, sustainable food production, fitness, and mental health. You can make a positive impact while pursuing your career goals.

🌟 Remember, choosing the right course is a personal decision. Take your time to research, consult with professionals, and evaluate your own strengths and interests. A well-informed decision will set you on the path to success! Good luck! 🚀

READ ALSO : TOP 90 MOST MARKETABLE & LUCRATIVE COURSES TO STUDY IN KENYA

List of TVET Institutions

Under the new model, students will be categorized into four groups: vulnerable, extremely needy, needy, and less needy. Students from vulnerable and extremely needy households will receive the most financial assistance, while students from less needy households will receive the least, as explained in this detailed guide.

The govt has also announced that it will only sponsor college students in PUBLIC TVETs and colleges. This means that the Govt will no longer place and offer scholarships to students placed in private institutions of higher learning.

How do I apply?

What does this mean for students who are currently enrolled in private universities and colleges?