The Department of Employment and Labour recently held a successful Career Fair at the Thabo Moorosi Multipurpose Centre in Mothibistad. The event aimed to encourage students to break away from the cycle of poverty in their families. On the second day of the fair, Career Counselor Danny Newman inspired learners to be game-changers in their lives and communities. His message centered on the importance of personal and professional growth and staying away from drugs and alcohol.
Department Initiatives to Support Learners
Newman introduced several Department initiatives designed to support learners and job seekers. These initiatives included career counseling, where students underwent psychometric tests to assess their personalities and interests. Based on the results, advisors assisted in choosing careers and subjects aligned with the students’ aptitudes. Short learning courses such as plumbing and building were also available, as well as bursaries.
Success in Education as a Gift to Parents
Newman encouraged success in education as a gift to parents for their efforts. This message resonated with Senakhomo, the Director of Public Employment Services (PES) in the Northern Cape Province. He praised the Education for Employability (E4E) project, a collaborative effort funded by the European Union and involving the Department of Basic Education and Department of Higher Education and Training. The project’s goal is to create a smooth pathway for students transitioning from school to work.
Direct Contact with Learners
The E4E project allowed the Department to make direct contact with learners – a significant improvement over existing methods. Senakhomo explained that the initiative provided learners with exposure to industry players, augmenting the knowledge gained through their Life Orientation classes in school.
Access to Information and Opportunities
Attendees of the Careers Fair appreciated the opportunity to interact with representatives from Sectoral Education and Training Authorities (SETA’s), governmental departments, technical colleges, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), and banks. Access to this information proved transformative for some students, who reconsidered their initial career choices in favor of more suitable alternatives. One learner even shared their newfound aspiration to become an entrepreneur rather than a doctor after visiting the various exhibitors.
Empowering the Next Generation
The event showcased the power of combining education and engagement, emphasizing the importance of giving students access to a broad spectrum of possibilities. By providing learners with the necessary resources and support, the Careers Fair at the Thabo Moorosi Multipurpose Centre has equipped the next generation to make informed decisions about their futures, ultimately contributing to the betterment of their families and communities.
