GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The Dr Beyers Naudé Local Career Exhibition, held on 25 and 26 September, created an important platform for learners, students, and out-of-school youth to explore future career and study opportunities.
The event was a joint initiative between the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality’s Special Programmes Unit (SPU) and Local Economic Development (LED), in collaboration with the Departments of Employment and Labour, as well as Education.
SPU Officer Lucricia Jackson explained that one of the unit’s ongoing tasks is to assist students with applications for the 2026 NSFAS bursary scheme and placements at tertiary institutions.
The closing date for NSFAS applications is 15 November and learners are encouraged to seek assistance from her office.
This year’s exhibition hosted an impressive line-up of universities, TVET colleges, SETAs, banks, state departments, and professionals.
Exhibitors included the University of the Western Cape, University of the Free State, Stellenbosch University, Lilitha College of Nursing, Eastcape Midlands TVET College, the Department of Agriculture, CATHSSETA, SAPS and Midland Hospital Allied Health, among others.
Learners engaged directly with these institutions to gain practical insights into study requirements, bursary opportunities, and career paths.
The event is aimed at Grade 11 and 12 learners, underscoring the importance of strong academic results in shaping future prospects.
Youth who are no longer in school were also encouraged to participate and reminded that there are still many opportunities available to improve their lives through further education or skills development.
The expo was officially opened by SAPS Station Commander, Colonel AJ Arends, who urged learners to make informed choices about their futures.
A strong focus was also placed on the work of the Department of Employment and Labour, represented by career counsellor, Ntebo Ntobe, from Graaff-Reinet.
Ntobe emphasised that public employment services exist to support young people in becoming employable, finding job opportunities and being matched with potential employers or learning institutions.
The 2025 Career Expo was a resounding success, noting that learners and community members left better equipped to make decisions that will shape their career journeys.
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