International Career Guidance Conference 2011 Innovative Career Guidance

International Career Guidance Conference 2011 Innovative Career Guidance Practice of an Education Network in Pakistan Raza Abbas

Outline Ø Case study Ø Significance of study Ø Need of career guidance in under-developed countries Ø Process Ø Overview of Career Guidance Model Ø Innovative services of careers department Ø Challenges Ø Future plans of careers department Ø Key Findings Ø Recommendations Ø Implication of Study Ø Conclusion

Case Study Ø Process of Career Guidance (CG) practices in an educational set-up. Ø CG services in Pakistan require immediate attention Ø Lack of career awareness leads to economic challenges for the youth.

Significance of Study Ø Source of information: Policy Makers and Education Leaders • Importance of CG in the under-developed world will lead to prosperity globally.

Need of CG Services in Under-Developed Countries Ø Socio cultural economic challenges Ø Teaching methods are focused on rote memorization Ø Lack of research, information and resources Ø Shortage of skilled human resource to address the need Ø Youth is clueless in decision making and career planning

Process Ø Case site is an education network where CG is part of policy. Ø Semi-structured interviews, observations etc used

Overview of Career Guidance Model Ø CG is implemented as a strategic policy at the network. Ø Established in June, 2007 Ø CG is available for students: Grades 8 – Post Graduation. Ø CG is also available for the society at large. Ø CG is lead by a US Qualified Career Development Professional.

Innovative Services of Careers Department: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Individual Career Counseling Group Counseling Resume and Cover Letter Writing Interview and Job Preparation University Career Seminars Personality Development Sessions Summer Internship Career Outreach Programmes Visits to Universities and Corporate Sector Career Publications Career Fair Inspirational Environment (Posters, Resources, Videos)

Career Guidance at the Network Ø Grades 8 -10: Group Selection & Career Counseling Ø Grades 11 -14: Career Counseling & University Seminars

Individual Career Counseling Feedback “Excellent because this session guided me so well and the way to search in a better way. I found it very interesting. It also made me learn to have a positive attitude and help others. ” Student “Very friendly attitude was a very good listener and have command on his field. I have learned a lot about my future plans. ” Professional “Excellent good insight about career & job opportunities. Lots of work I have to do But I am happy because its for my benefits, Thanks. ” Professional

Summer Internship “It was a great learning experience where we actually experienced the practicality of what we study as theory”. Intern

Challenges Ø Lack of awareness still exists in society at large. Ø Interns did not show up- transportation and family challenges. Ø Demand for more career field visits Ø Career seminars at times affect academic classes. Ø Talking to a Counselor is a new phenomena in this region. Ø Parents educational background is minimal.

Future Plans of Careers Department Ø Aptitude Test Preparation: University Higher Education Ø Planning Career Conference: Focusing on emerging professions Ø Engage youth in career skill programs

Key Findings Ø CG was 1 st made part of policy of the Education Network Ø CG dependent on strategic leadership of the network. Ø Network involved key stakeholders to make CG a success model Philanthropists, Edu Board, Principals, Teachers, Students. Ø Investment in skilled human resource need of the time

Recommendations Secondary school students should also have career field visits. Students should have a career binder to reflect seminars/visits. Research study to evaluate gender differences in careers.

Implication of Study Educational Institutions: Dire need of trained and skilled career development professionals is required in the under-developed world to nurture the youth. Education Leaders: Source of inspiration for educational leaders in schools, colleges, and universities to re-think educational policy. Non-Educational Sector: Study findings show involvement of professionals from corporate sector= connection between education and corporate sector for a prosperous youth of the country.

Conclusion Career Guidance should be a policy in all educational institutions. Educational Institutions will get motivation to support students in career development. Win / Win situation for students / educators / parents / country Lead to a prosperous and safer world.

Contact Information: Mr. Raza Abbas Career Development Consultant Email: ra@globalpathway. org