Career day at Paramount High School

Marsha Bothma|Published 9 months ago

Paramount High School’s RCL chairperson, Mvelo Mpengesi, 15, and vice-chairperson, Zahraa Slamdien at their career day on Friday May 3.

Paramount High School, formerly known as Tafelsig No.2 High School, held a career day for their pupils on Friday May 3.

Members of the Metro police, Tafelsig sub-forum committee, and NGO Mosaic training service and healing centre, were among those present.

Constable Ricardo Christians and Constable Adrian Isaacs did their first demonstration called a narcotics detection with female canine Khalesi. The second demonstration by female canine Kiara showed the search for firearms and ammunition.

In front is Constable Adrian Isaacs and at the back is Constable Ricardo Christians with female canine Kiara who demonstrated the explosive detections, searching for firearms and ammunition.

“It is very good for pupils to be exposed to different career choices so that the pupils can start early knowing what it is they want to do in life,” said Constable Christians. The City’s Metro Police K-9 unit is based in Parow but works in various communities.

If pupils want to join, they must first complete basic training to enter this programme and can apply to their specialised unit.

Tafelsig sub-forum chairperson Charmaine “Connie” Adams spoke to the pupils about the procedure of reporting complaints in their community and what their job entails. “We all need to work together to fight crime.”

Social worker Chelsea Mamwell from Mosaic said they are based at the Thusong Centre in Tafelsig. They have court support workers and social workers based in offices.

Social worker Chelsea Mamwell from Mosaic speaking at the career day.

Principal Keenan Herbert said pupils take subjects but they’re not aware of the career that comes with it. “We want to give pupils the practical knowledge of how a school subject will help them in studying further. We want them to be equipped in the economy and society.”

Grade 9 Representative Council of Learners (RCL) vice-chairperson, Zahraa Slamdien, 15, said she was exposed to lots of opportunities at the career day. She said all schools should have this for pupils.

Grade 9 Paramount High School RCL chairperson, Mvelo Mpengesi, 15, said: “It’s giving me insight into various careers. Students should know what they have to achieve in their career aspirations.”