Learners Empowered to Pursue Their Passions in Mandeni.
Over 1000 learners from Mandeni in KwaZulu Natal, flocked to Imponqabulungu Secondary School for a career expo on 22 April 2023. The expo organised by Services SETA and Mhleli Foundation attracted Grade 9 to Grade 12 learners from various schools in the area. The goal of the expo was to inform learners about different career paths and learning opportunities they could pursue after their school education.
Services SETA, Marketing and Communication manager, Duduzile Mwelase further elaborates “We have several careers that learners can choose from, from our sector they can look at the industry such as cleaning, hairdressing, fashion design, and the funeral sector. We also have CHIETA which deals with careers in the chemical industry. We also have the Department of Higher Education and Training which looks at artisanal careers, so if you are good with your hands, you can consider such careers”
Various government agencies, universities, professional bodies, and industry leaders showed their offerings in different classrooms. Fashion and lifestyle specialist, Mothokozisi Chiyi, also known as Uswenka shared his career journey with the curious learners. TV make-up artist, Nomfuno Khuzwayo also gave insight into the beauty and make-up industry. Learners could further engage with different exhibitors in these classrooms.
To further support learners with different career paths, a workshop for Life Orientation educators was held. One of the educators, Thabiso Mabaso from Mathobasizwe High School had this to say after the workshop:
“From the educator’s workshop, we learned about what things we need to tap into to prepare these learners for the career path they might want to take one day. Sometimes one can land into a career that was not their dream, therefore it is important for these learners to assess their personalities and capabilities so that they can follow the right path.”
Reflecting on the day’s happenings, learners had this to say:
“Today was an exciting day and I learned that one can be successful even if you get your qualification from a TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training), University of Technology, or University. After matric I want to be a financial accountant,” said Jabulo Buthelezi from Tshana High School.
“Prior to today, I was not sure which career path I wanted to follow matric. It is not easy to decide as there is peer pressure and pressure from parents. However, after today I have decided that I want to be in the law industry” said Mandisa Ngcobo from Thukela Secondary School.
Services SETA mobile computer labs also helped learners to conduct more research about careers they would like to pursue.
