Jan 23, 2018 2 min read Work

The new school

Not sure if university is for you? Here are some alternative ways to study.

Interested in investigating some innovative ways to get an education? Not sure the traditional (and expensive) university track is for you? Here are some alternatives you could consider.

TVET/FET colleges

The number of people enrolling at FET colleges is still tiny compared to university applicants throughout the country. That’s a pity, because this country needs a lot more hands-on practical skills!

Here’s a full list of all the TVET colleges in South Africa If that one’s down, try this one

Some particular TVET colleges that have been recommended by people we know include:

Sparrow FET College

Technical and vocational skills programmes

Learn to Earn is a non-profit organisation that runs very affordable short courses in Khayelitsha and Hermanus for unemployed people, covering skills ranging from sewing to graphic design to woodwork. 83% of their graduates become economically active after completing the courses.

JumpStart is run by the Mr Price foundation and runs skills development programmes in KZN.

Harambee is an excellent resource that helps young, unemployed people find entry-level jobs, many of which offer on-the-job training.

The Knowledge Trust is an online database featuring thousands of learnerships and intern jobs, as well as academic bursaries for tertiary programmes.

Software schools

Africa’s going to need a lot more people who know how to code to save us once the robot uprising happens. There are some really great, new-style practical coding schools popping up around the country who want to teach young people these skills, and some of them are even free.

Creative schools

There are some great school alternatives that focus on developing creative skills. Unfortunately, most of these courses are hella expensive (like, more than traditional varsity).

One exception is Umuzi, which is a 12 month paid learnership.

Other (expensive) options include:

Hit me up in the comments if you’ve got any tips for more cost-effective alternatives.

Online courses

With just a laptop and an internet connection, you can access some of the world’s most high-quality lectures, in any subject. WE LIVE IN THE FUTURE, AND IT’S GREAT.