The initiative was aimed at imparting knowledge to high school learners (from as young as Grade Nine to matric) across the East Rand and to out-of-school members of the community, about courses that the college has to offer, as well as the myriad of career choices available as a result thereof.
“We believe that learners should be guided from a young age, with regards to possible career choices, so that they are able to make informed decisions,” said the college’s marketing officer, Cynthia Nzimande.
The expo took place from May 9 to May 12 and was said to have been frequented by an estimated 12 000 people, who came to visit the exhibition stalls and partake in the presentations that were held in the centre’s hall.
“We are excited to be able to reach people at a larger scale than we have been doing in the previous years,” explained Nzimande.
“We hope to be able to make this an annual event.”
Part of the initiative’s goal was to dispel misconceptions about higher education6 in colleges as opposed to universities, by highlighting the opportunities that are available within the college context.
“People need to understand the opportunities available at college level, as well as in-service training, which readies them for the working world,” said Nzimande.
The expo saw various stakeholders in the finance, education, and health, and labour sectors, including various SETAS, who offered career advice and guidance to the curious young minds who were in attendance.
The college also stipulated that they have bursaries available for top-performing learners in the East Rand, and have partnered with the Department of Higher Education which has NSFAS administrating the bursaries that are free to the selected learners.
The college’s principal, Happy Sibanda, was overwhelmed by the support and interest demonstrated by learners, schools, stakeholders and the general public.
“I am overwhelmed by the reception we have received,” she said.
Sibanda also gave a special note of thanks to all the key stakeholders and partners in the initiative.
“I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to all our stakeholders and partners, particularly those from the district’s Department of Education,” she said.
