Exploring Career Paths in the Drakensberg Region

On a cloudy Saturday morning, learners from various schools gathered at Ubulinga Secondary School in Bergville for a career expo. This expo is the brainchild of the local organisation, Bergville Community Builders (BCB) in partnership with Services SETA. Bergville is a small agricultural town situated in the foothills of Drakensberg Mountain in KwaZulu Natal.

These Grade 12 learners in their colorful uniforms came from 34 schools in the area. The expo kicked off in the school hall where learners and exhibitors were welcomed and given the running order of the day. While still in the hall, there were awards for best-performing secondary schools from the 2022 academic year. The categories were for schools with the most improved pass rate, schools with the most bachelor passes, and schools with the highest pass rate.

After the awards learners moved to classes staffed by different exhibitors. After every 30 minutes, learners switched to a different class with different exhibitors.Representatives from different Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA’s) informed learners about different careers in their respective sectors. These industries are chemical industries, food and beverages, finance and accounting, and information and communication technologies sectors. Furthermore, there were exhibitors from Eskom, Durban University of Technology, and the National Youth Development Agency. Industry professionals in medical practice, aviation, beauty, and law also gave learners into their respective industries.

The expo wrapped up on a high note in the afternoon.