By: Themba Nyovane – 22 September 2023

The Vaal University of Technology’s (VUT) Co-Operative Education Department recently hosted a Career Fair, demonstrating a resounding commitment to nurturing the potential of students and graduates.

This occasion transcended a mere gathering – it served as a platform for providing invaluable support to students and graduates embarking on their professional journeys by facilitating interactions between them and industry leaders. During the session, industry leaders offered attendees some much-needed guidance towards making informed career choices for a brighter future. Moreso, the information shared on the day played an instrumental role in helping the soon to enter the market cohort to navigate the often-tricky maze of career choices, ensuring they had a clear vision of their professional paths.

Additionally, attendees gained insights into learnerships, internships, bursaries, and industry placement opportunities provided by the various companies that had exhibition stalls on the day.

According to the organisers, the significance of a career fair in a higher education setting, cannot be overstated, as it serves as a bridge connecting academic knowledge with real-world opportunities. “This event embodied this philosophy, as the interactions extended beyond traditional classroom learning, offering a deeper understanding of what awaits them in the professional world.”

One of the students who attended the event, Promise Khoza who is enrolled for a Diploma in Safety Management, said “the Career Fair exceeded my expectations in every way. The range of companies present and the genuine interest they showed in helping us navigate our career choices was impressive. I left with a clearer sense of direction and a newfound excitement for what lies ahead. This event truly showcased the power of education in conjunction with industry support.”

Another one, Mantombi Sibaya, a Diploma in Public Relations Management student commented: “Attending the 2023 Career Fair was a game-changer for me. The opportunity to interact with industry professionals and gain insights into potential career paths was invaluable. I was able to make connections that I believe will shape my future positively. Kudos to VUT’s Co-Operative Education Department for organizing such a transformative event.”