Image: Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Mr Njabulo Nzuza, NYDA representative Dr Wiseman Mbatha and Councillor Thamsanqa Mthiyane visiting the exhibition stands.

The city of uMhlathuze’s Ward 19, in partnership with government departments, higher education institutions, and industry stakeholders, hosted a Career Expo at Ebeneza Family Church International in Esikhawini, Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, on 26 September 2025. The event, attended by more than 500 learners and educators, aimed to empower learners with access to career guidance, bursary information, and skills development opportunities under the theme “It takes a village to raise a child.”

The Career Expo was initiated to respond to growing concerns about learners’ lack of exposure to career pathways in historically disadvantaged communities. With many learners facing barriers to accessing mentorship, information, and opportunities, the initiative sought to bridge the gap by connecting them with institutions of higher learning, government departments, and private sector employers. Its objectives included providing career guidance, promoting bursary and learnership opportunities, and fostering sustainable partnerships for learner development in the region.

The programme opened with Master of Ceremony, Mr Mkhuseli Buthelezi, who welcomed participants and engaged learners with interactive questions throughout the day.

Cluster Head at the Department of Education, Ms Faith Hlongwane, encouraged learners to prioritise pure Mathematics over Mathematical Literacy to broaden their study and career options. She also reminded Grade 12 learners of the upcoming National Senior Certificate examinations, urging them to prepare with focus and determination.

National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) representative, Dr Wiseman Mbatha, underscored the importance of access to information and inclusivity, delivering his talk in both English and isiZulu. He reminded learners that opportunities exist in sectors such as mining and energy but are often missed because information does not reach rural communities. “Teachers must encourage learners not only to be job seekers, but also job creators,” he said.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Mr Njabulo Nzuza, highlighted the role of discipline and planning in shaping successful futures. He also reminded learners about the importance of obtaining a smart ID card before sitting for matric exams. “Always be disciplined regardless of your circumstances. Have a plan for your life and your future,” he told the learners.

The National Research Foundation’s South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA) was also in attendance, to support and coordinate part of the exhibition on behalf of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI). Exhibitors coordinated through NRF-SAASTA included the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), University of Zululand (UNIZULU) Science Centre, UNIZULU Computer Science and Community Engagement departments, University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Space Tech Foundation, Durban University of Technology (DUT), and Helping 1 Another. Additional exhibitors organised by the event organisers included Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, financial institutions and motor vehicle manufacturers.

Closing the event, Mr Nzimande delivered a vote of thanks to Councillor Thamsanqa Mthiyane for organising the event, the partners and the exhibitors for coming on board, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration: “It takes a village to raise a child.”

The UMhlathuze Career Expo provided a vital platform for learners to explore diverse career options, access critical information, and connect with institutions that can shape their futures. Beyond the immediate impact, it strengthened partnerships between government, academia, and industry in supporting skills development and preparing learners for post-school opportunities.