Opportunities for average learners

According to the Oxford dictionary, an average is an amount, standard, level or rate regarded as usual or ordinary. In other words, an average learner can be seen as someone in the middle order who is not a stupendous ranker. It will be greatly beneficial for us as a nation to make provision for average learners in terms of bursaries, student loans, scholarships and job opportunities.

Not every learner is fated to find a great success in the world of academia; nonetheless, plenty are able to succeed and need the same assistance as the high performer.

It is therefore imperative to motivate both average and moderately-able learners. Our system is focused on top achievers and is neglecting the average learners. We need to encourage learners on all levels by providing and availing opportunities befitting all categories. Average learners can also do extraordinary things, be it in academics or in their professional or personal lives.

We lose a lot of people because we do not give them a chance. Many learners are turned down because they do not meet certain requirements and that can be devastating. Circumstances sometimes impact academic performance, thus keeping that in consideration would be vital. Rejecting learners may lead to them quitting and giving up. For example, why can’t the admission to universities allow all learners, irrespective of performance, to qualify?

Too high a bar

Standardised tests do not always show true intelligence.

Marsha Shaines, an independent college admission consultant at College Strategies stated: “Just because a learner did not excel in high school does not mean he/she would not excel in college”. There are many successful and brilliant people in the world who did not achieve fantastic results in their studies. It is better to motivate than to discourage by depriving the ones who are trying of opportunities.

There are many graduates and students out there who do not meet certain job requirements, but have potential. These individuals are being restrained by bars that are set too high and are not attainable.

It is against this background that I urge institutions and education planners to also consider better inclusivity for all. Also, the employment market should not only concentrate on top achievers alone, but on average students with the potential for growth as well. Combining work and study helps young people develop the skills needed in today’s job market.

** Emily Khoero Job is a senior private secretary at the gender ministry. The opinions expressed in this piece are her own, and not those of her employer. Email her at [email protected].