Unlocking Youth Potential Through Tailored Career Guidance
Imagine if students were deeply aware of the challenges and opportunities around them—and understood how their skills and interests could contribute to meaningful solutions.
What if every student could clearly see how what they learn in class connects to the professions they aspire to?
Research shows that students who can link their coursework to real-world careers are more engaged in class, leading to higher academic achievement. They perform better, earn higher grades, and retain information more effectively. School engagement is also associated with positive long-term outcomes, such as better academic performance, a higher likelihood of graduating from high school, lower involvement in illicit activities, greater chances of employment, and fewer behavioral issues (Broadhurst et al., 2005; Gershenson et al., 2017; Goodman, 2014; Kane, 2006; Rumberger, 1995). In many communities, a student’s high school performance significantly impacts their career trajectory and future opportunities.
After years of refining this vision, we are thrilled to officially introduce our Career with Purpose online platform, designed specifically for high school students in Grades 10 to 12. This platform uses the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework, helping students explore global and local challenges alongside the professions that tackle them. Through guided activities, students analyze real-world problems, reflect on their role in creating change, and take action right where they are. They are also encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that build the skills needed for their career interests.
The Career with Purpose program does not just connect students to global challenges—it makes these issues tangible by incorporating localized data and statistics. This ensures that students relate to the challenges within their own communities, recognizing that the severity of issues varies by region and country.
For communities where internet access or computer availability is limited—and where teacher-to-student ratios are high—we have developed Career with Purpose worksheets and workshop materials. These resources enable teachers to facilitate group discussions and support multiple students at once, ensuring no one is left behind.
By starting conversations about careers and problem-solving early, students shall be empowered to think about their communities, plan for their future with confidence and align their aspirations with their passions.