After completing your O/Levels (Ordinary Level examinations) in Sri Lanka, you may feel overwhelmed by the choices ahead. The O/L results mark a crucial turning point in your academic and career journey. You can choose different paths depending on your interests, qualifications, and future aspirations.
This article will explore various options available after O/Ls in Sri Lanka, including further studies, vocational training, and professional certifications. It will also touch on the types of jobs you can consider and how to best prepare for your future.
1. Continuing Education: A/L Stream
For most students, the next step after O/Ls is continuing education by pursuing the A/L (Advanced Level) examination, which is required for university admission in Sri Lanka. You have three major streams to choose from:
- Science Stream: Ideal for students interested in fields like medicine, engineering, and physical sciences.
- Commerce Stream: Best suited for those who want to pursue careers in accounting, finance, and business management.
- Arts Stream: Great for students who have interests in humanities, law, journalism, or languages.
Why Choose A/Ls?
- Pathway to University: A/Ls are essential for entry into local universities or international higher education institutions.
- Broader Career Choices: A/Ls open up numerous career pathways, from government jobs to private-sector roles, depending on the stream you select.
Educational Institutes Offering A/Ls:
- Public Schools: Most schools in Sri Lanka offer A/L streams after O/Ls.
- Private Colleges: Institutions like Gateway College and Royal Institute provide high-quality A/L education with modern facilities.
2. Vocational Training
If you are more inclined towards hands-on learning and practical skills, vocational training is an excellent option after O/Ls. Sri Lanka offers a wide variety of vocational courses that are job-oriented and help students gain employment skills faster than traditional academic paths.
Popular Vocational Fields:
- Information Technology (IT)
- Hotel Management and Tourism
- Graphic Design
- Automobile Engineering
- Beauty and Wellness
- Electrical and Plumbing
Why Choose Vocational Training?
- Faster Entry into the Job Market: Vocational training programs usually last 6 months to 2 years, allowing you to start earning sooner.
- Skilled Jobs: With increasing demand for skilled professionals in industries like IT and hospitality, vocational courses can offer good career opportunities.
Institutes Offering Vocational Training:
- Vocational Training Authority (VTA)
- National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA)
- Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management (SLITHM)
3. Professional Certifications
If you want to specialize in a particular field, pursuing professional certifications is a good option. Many professional courses provide industry-specific skills that are in demand globally.
Popular Certifications:
- Chartered Accountancy (CA): If you’re interested in finance and accounting, CA is one of the most prestigious certifications in Sri Lanka.
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Globally recognized and ideal for those looking to build a career in accounting and auditing.
- Diploma in Information Technology: Many institutes like SLIIT offer diploma courses in IT, which can open doors to tech-related jobs.
Why Choose Professional Certifications?
- Specialized Skills: These certifications equip you with industry-specific skills, making you more employable.
- Flexibility: Many of these courses can be pursued alongside work or other studies.
4. Employment Opportunities After O/Ls
If you need to start earning right away or are not inclined to pursue higher education, there are entry-level jobs available that require just O/L qualifications. These roles often serve as a stepping stone for further career development.
Popular Job Options:
- Retail and Sales Jobs: Working in stores or supermarkets as sales assistants or cashiers.
- Office Assistants/Clerks: Performing clerical duties in offices.
- Call Center Jobs: Providing customer service via phone or email.
- Data Entry Jobs: Managing and updating data records.
While these jobs may not be highly paid initially, they offer opportunities to gain work experience, which can lead to better positions later.
How to Find Jobs After O/Ls:
- Online Job Portals: Websites like TopJobs.lk , CeylonVacancy and XpressJobs.lk post openings for entry-level jobs.
- Walk-In Interviews: Many companies conduct walk-in interviews for clerical, retail, or customer service roles.
- Job Fairs: Attending job fairs in your local area can help you meet recruiters and learn about available opportunities.
5. Entrepreneurship: Start Your Own Business
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, starting your own business could be a viable option after O/Ls. Many young individuals have successfully ventured into fields like e-commerce, freelancing, or small-scale manufacturing. Some ideas include:
- Online Retail: Starting an online store on platforms like Daraz or Shopify.
- Freelancing: Offering services such as graphic design, content writing, or web development on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
- Local Services: Setting up a small-scale business in your community such as a beauty salon, catering service, or tuition class.
6. Joining the Military or Police
If you are interested in serving your country, joining the Sri Lankan military or police force is another option after O/Ls. The military offers training, career development, and long-term benefits, including pensions and housing.
Military Entry Requirements:
- Age: 18-22 years old
- Physical Fitness: Meeting the required fitness levels for joining the army, navy, or air force.
Joining the military is not only a patriotic career but also offers long-term job stability.
7. Studying Abroad After O/Ls
For those who have the financial means, studying abroad after O/Ls is a great way to gain international exposure and better career prospects. Countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK offer programs that accept O/L qualifications and lead to diplomas or undergraduate degrees.
Benefits of Studying Abroad:
- Global Recognition: Degrees obtained from international institutions are recognized globally and offer higher earning potential.
- Cultural Exposure: Studying in a foreign country helps you develop adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills.
Conclusion: Make the Right Choice After O/Ls
The period after O/Ls is a critical decision-making time that can shape your future career. Whether you choose to continue your studies through A/Ls, pursue vocational training, or jump into the workforce, the key is to choose an option that aligns with your interests and future goals.
- If you’re academically inclined and aiming for university, A/Ls are the traditional route.
- If you prefer practical, job-ready skills, vocational training or professional certifications may be better suited to you.
- If you’re eager to start earning right away, look for job opportunities in retail, customer service, or entrepreneurship.
