THE SKILLS that former Alexandra School students gained were used yesterday to help present students in choosing a career.
During Career Day at the St Peter school, students drew on the success stories as well as the struggles of past students for a realistic view of the world of work.
Acting guidance counsellor Shernelle Clarke said the event was part of a week of activities to celebrate the 120th anniversary of the school under the theme Commemorating, Celebrating, Creating The Alexandra Story.
Developing the entrepreneurial spirit was highlighted by communications consultant and part-time lecturer at the University of the West Indies, Marsha Hinds-Layne, who stressed that school-leavers had to think of creating their own jobs.
“They need to be told because I was not told. Children now need to understand there is no job waiting for them. It is not that you go to school and come out and get a government job; you have to create a job.”
Hinds-Layne added that circumstances forced her to become a quick learner and entrepreneur, even with her qualifications and academic training.
Meanwhile, managing director of Secure One Security, Hal Corbin, shared the experience of running his own company for the past eight years.
It offers electronic security services such as closed circuit television, burglar alarms, fire alarms and home automation, which can control lights, air-conditioning and alarms system remotely using a cellular phone.
“Technology is the way to go, so hopefully I will be able to expose some of the students to that, to see if it can spark their interest. It is a big field and there are a lot of opportunities for them, but hopefully they can end up being employees of the company,” Corbin said.
There were also interactive booths set up from the Barbados Defence Force, Royal Barbados Police Force, media organisations and service companies.
The Barbados Community College provided information about further studies. (LK)