The study explored the sentiments of Zimbabwean secondary school learners regarding their career ambitions against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and industrial downsizing. The psychological theories of Maslow, Erikson and Bandura informed the study. The phenomenological research design was employed with questionnaires and focus group discussions as data gathering instruments. A sample of 35 secondary school learners comprising 20 Ordinary level and 15 Advanced level learners took part in the study.The generality of the respondents opined that making a career choice was not easy for a number of reasons including the unpredictable probability of ultimately getting employed. The presence of many unemployed graduates in society was cited by the respondents as a frightening phenomenon which made their quest to choose a career a challenging and daunting task. While some respondents expressed uncertainty and frustration emanating from the prevailing economic climate, others were quite optimistic and had their career ambitions set beyond their immediate borders. It was recommended, among other things, that career guidance sessions meant to familiarise learners with the various career options available not only in their countries but on the international scene should be undertake in Zimbabwean secondary schools.
Adolescence, identity versus role confusion, volatile economic climate, bleak employment prospects, career trajectory
