As a former SSS player I have to say that the game is not dead, rather very much alive. I don't know what will happen when they do that change on PokerStars. I myself moved through limits till I made a nice roll with it.
As for the SSS, I have to say its a great way to start your poker career. It has lots of variance and it makes you wanna break something from time to time, but it teaches you few very basic rules... play tight, play aggro, exploit the fish, stay disciplined. Its great for grinding and bonus whoring as well as for learning how to multitable (easily 10-12 tables)
I did change to BSS SH though...