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Hazel Marimbiza, Chronicle Correspondent
PUPILS have been urged to take up science subjects so that they can increase their chances of securing employment after school.

Existing gaps have been observed in sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics disciplines and Government has been working on encouraging pupils to take up those subjects.

Speaking to pupils from Isotsha, Dobi, Matopo, Duna and Silobi primary schools as well as pupils from Duna and Silobi secondary schools during a Career Guidance and Counselling service fair held at Silobi High School last

Friday, Senator Themba Mathuthu said if learners take up science subjects it will be easy to link them to fields in line with their competencies as individuals.

“We are challenging students to take up science subjects because the country is in need of innovators, inventors, logical thinkers and technologically proficient problem solvers,” said Senator Mathuthu.

He said he is aware of barriers, challenges, pressures and constraints that are hindering the growth of the economy hence the need to promote the uptake of sciences to accelerate economic growth and at the same time creating employment.

“We want students to take up sciences in order to overcome challenges such as job-skill mismatch and lack of relevant skills to lead in technological transformation. It is therefore, imperative for us to guide our youths in making informed decisions about their future careers.

Our primary goal is to alleviate skills shortages in relevant sectors of the economy with a vision to empower society and promote the growth of the economy. Students should also know that they are responsible for the choices they make today hence the need to make the right choices,” said Senator Mathuthu.

He said most of the graduates that were unemployed did not have the skills needed by industry and commerce.

Addressing the students, district schools inspector, Mr Mbofhololo Muleya also urged pupils especially girls to take up mathematics and science subjects in order to contribute to national development.

“We have realised that our learners need to be guided so that they make wise career choices and this is the reason why we are urging you to work hard to pass mathematics and science,” said Mr Muleya.