Career expo opens doors for local learners

Learners from schools within the Gauteng Eastern District gathered at Chief Luthuli Primary School No. 2 in Cloverdane to explore a range of study and career opportunities during an expo hosted by Gold One on April 23.

The expo brought together various stakeholders who shared information to help learners make informed decisions about their futures and understand the value of education.

Among those present were representatives from the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) Eastern District, Gauteng Social and Community Development and NSFAS. Universities and colleges, including Wits and Richfield, engaged with learners and provided information on study opportunities and career paths.

Speakers used the platform to encourage learners to remain in school, work hard and begin thinking seriously about the careers they would like to pursue in future.

They also gave learners insight into their day-to-day work, helping them better understand what different professions involve.

Poovan Chetty, from the GDE Eastern District, said the expo served as an important platform to expose learners to the opportunities available to them through education.

“We want each learner to have a distinct career path from today’s exposure, enabling them to work towards something that they want,” said Chetty.
Chetty said events of this nature help learners connect classroom learning with real-life career possibilities.

Dion Mabotha, from Gauteng Social and Community Development, highlighted the importance of guiding young people early so they can make positive life choices and remain focused on their education.
“Giving learners access to information and encouragement can play a meaningful role in shaping their futures. We hope to have expos like these quarterly so that we can have a greater reach,” Mabotha explained.

Chris Nchabeleng, from Gold One, said hosting the event was part of investing in the future of young people in the community.
“To be able to help shape the future of these kids, we need to start from the foundation, which is Grade 10s, so they choose subjects that can enable them to pursue careers that they want, easily,” he said.

He said bringing together institutions, speakers and support organisations in one space gave learners a valuable opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the paths available to them.

The expo not only introduced learners to universities, colleges and support structures, but also reinforced the message that staying in school can open doors to a brighter future.

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