2.4 Describe TWO ways in which students could access financial assistance to ensuro their career prospects ate met. \[ (2 \times 2)(4) \] 25. Explain how affordability, os a socio-economic factor, could influence career choices. \[ (3 \times 2)(6) \] 2.6 Discuss FOUR ways in which violations of human rights could ntensify existing socio-economic inequalities within a community. \( (4 \times 2)(8) \) 12.2.7 Analyse how cultural expectations can impact a learner's ability to pursue theif career aspirations. \( (2 \times 2)(4) \) 2.8 Assess TWO ways in which an inclusive university onvironment could positively influence the career prospects of students. \( (2 \times 4)(8) \) 2.9 Evaluate ONE socio-economic factor that could influence a learner's decision to pursue tertiary studies. \( (1 \times 4)(4) \) 2.10 Suggest ONE way in which schools could assist Grade 10 leamers to explore suitable career opportunities. In your answer, also indicate how this suggestion will help the leamer to make informed career decisions. \( (1 \times 3)(3) \) Total Actlvity 2: 45

**2.4 Describe TWO ways in which students could access financial assistance to ensure their career prospects are met.** 1. **Scholarships and Bursaries:** Students can apply for scholarships and bursaries provided by government bodies, universities, and private organizations. These forms of financial aid help cover tuition fees and other education-related expenses, reducing the financial burden and allowing students to focus on their studies. 2. **Student Loans and Grants:** Students may also apply for student loans or grants offered by financial institutions or the government. Loans provide immediate funds with the expectation of repayment after graduation, while grants are non-repayable funds based on merit or financial need. \[ (2 \times 2)(4) \] --- **25. Explain how affordability, as a socio-economic factor, could influence career choices.** Affordability plays a major role in shaping career decisions. When education and training costs are high, certain career paths may be inaccessible for students from lower socio-economic backgrounds. For example: - High tuition fees and living expenses may force students to choose careers with shorter training periods or less costly education paths, even if these are not aligned with their interests or aptitudes. - Students might opt for vocational or technical training over university degrees if the latter is perceived as financially unattainable, potentially limiting long-term career development opportunities. \[ (3 \times 2)(6) \] --- **2.6 Discuss FOUR ways in which violations of human rights could intensify existing socio-economic inequalities within a community.** 1. **Restricted Access to Education:** Human rights violations, such as discrimination in admission processes, can prevent marginalized groups from accessing quality education, thereby reinforcing socio-economic disparities. 2. **Employment Discrimination:** When certain groups face discrimination in the workforce, they may be excluded from well-paying jobs or career advancement opportunities, deepening the income and wealth gaps. 3. **Limited Political Participation:** Suppression of civil and political rights can prevent affected populations from having a voice in policy-making processes, which may perpetuate laws and policies that favor already-privileged groups. 4. **Social Exclusion and Marginalization:** Violations that lead to social stigmatization can result in a lack of access to essential services like healthcare, housing, and social security, thereby exacerbating socio-economic inequality. \[ (4 \times 2)(8) \] --- **12.2.7 Analyse how cultural expectations can impact a learner's ability to pursue their career aspirations.** Cultural expectations can significantly shape a learner's career path by: - **Imposing Stereotypes:** Traditional gender roles or cultural norms may steer learners toward fields that are deemed appropriate within their cultural context, potentially restricting exploration of other disciplines. - **Influence on Self-Perception:** Cultural pressures may affect a learner’s self-confidence and the belief in their ability to succeed in certain careers, which can result in abandoning aspirations that conflict with cultural norms. - **Parental and Community Expectations:** Expectations from family or community leaders can lead learners to pursue careers that maintain cultural continuity, even if they have interests and talents in other areas. - **Access to Resources:** In some cultures, emphasis on certain careers can result in unequal investment in education and training for non-traditional fields, limiting the opportunities available to those interested in pursuing them. \[ (2 \times 2)(4) \] --- **2.8 Assess TWO ways in which an inclusive university environment could positively influence the career prospects of students.** 1. **Enhanced Learning Opportunities:** An inclusive university environment ensures that students from diverse backgrounds have equal access to quality education, resources, and support services. This promotes a richer learning experience and increases employability by developing a broad range of skills and perspectives. 2. **Better Networking and Collaboration:** Inclusive settings foster diverse interactions and collaborations among students, faculty, and industry professionals. This network can lead to internship placements, mentoring opportunities, and connections that are vital for career advancement. \[ (2 \times 4)(8) \] --- **2.9 Evaluate ONE socio-economic factor that could influence a learner's decision to pursue tertiary studies.** **Affordability:** Affordability is a critical socio-economic factor influencing the decision to pursue higher education. High tuition fees, coupled with associated costs such as accommodation and materials, can deter students from low-income families from enrolling in tertiary education. Even when financial aid is available, the fear of accumulating debt or the complexity of application processes may further discourage potential candidates, thereby limiting access to opportunities for social mobility. \[ (1 \times 4)(4) \] --- **2.10 Suggest ONE way in which schools could assist Grade 10 learners to explore suitable career opportunities. In your answer, also indicate how this suggestion will help the learner to make informed career decisions.** **Career Guidance and Counseling Programs:** Schools can establish comprehensive career guidance programs that include career fairs, counseling sessions, and workshops with industry professionals. - **How It Helps:** This initiative allows learners to gain insights into various career paths, understand the qualifications needed, and learn about the current job market trends. By engaging directly with professionals and receiving tailored counseling, learners can align their interests and strengths with realistic career options, leading to more informed and confident career choices. \[ (1 \times 3)(3) \] --- Total Activity 2: 45