The influence of home environment on the career choice of standard nine pupils in Mohlakeng secondary schools in Gauteng

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of the home environment on the career choice of Standard Nine pupils in Mohlakeng, Lunasands, Swaneville and Bekkersdal. A group of 240 pupils were selected from the two secondary schools, i.e. Phahama Secondary School and A.B. Phokompe Secondary School for this purpose. A greater understanding of the squatter communities and township communities was necessary as well as insight into the career guidance programme for secondary schools of the former Department of Education and Training. This will help the reader to visualise the scenario in these communities. During the literature study the background to the establishment of the squatter areas in South Africa was closely examined in order to identify the causes and results of squatting. The negative effects of both squatter areas and township areas on school going children were examined. The relationship between these two areas was discussed. The literature study was also aimed at gaining insight into factors that affect the career choice of pupils from squatter and township homes. In the empirical research that followed, a questionnaire was devised and given to a sample of pupils from Phahama and A.B. Phokompe Secondary Schools to complete. The SAS-computer programme was applied to determine the average of the responses for each question. A complete analysis of the investigation results indicated that home environment plays a major role in the career choice of the Standard Nine pupils. The career indecision of most of the squatter pupils is a result of not enough role models in their immediate environment. One can suggest that greater emphasis on the empowerment of parents; would lead to pupils making a responsible and informed career choice. This in turn will mean the full utilization of untapped human potential which is present in abundance in this country.