“VUT engaged nearly 1,000 Gauteng learners at the EduConnect Future Economy Expo 2026, promoting study opportunities and strengthening student recruitment efforts.”
06 October 2026 | Story by: Tayron Mhlongo | Picture:
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) engaged with nearly 1,000 learners from across Gauteng at the EduConnect Media Future Economy Conference and Career Expo 2026, held at the Johannesburg Business School (JBS) in Auckland Park on 28 September 2026.
As part of its ongoing student recruitment drive, VUT’s Student Recruitment team showcased the University’s academic offerings and future-focused programmes while guiding prospective students on study and career opportunities aligned with South Africa’s evolving economy.
The expo brought together tertiary institutions, industry experts, educators, parents and learners for a day of panel discussions, masterclasses and career guidance sessions. Discussions focused on emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, fintech, logistics, entrepreneurship, data transformation and other technologies shaping the future world of work.
Representing VUT at the event, Mr Sennanyane Masike and Ms Dimakatso Motaung engaged directly with Grade 11 and Grade 12 learners, providing information on admission requirements, application processes, study options and career pathways linked to their subjects and academic performance.
The engagement also created an opportunity to attract prospective students who had not previously considered VUT. According to the recruitment team, several learners expressed interest in applying after visiting the University’s exhibition stand and learning more about its programmes.
“Being part of the expo was eye-opening. It was not only about VUT; the diversity of institutions made the event even richer. We are grateful for the opportunity and will gladly participate again when the expo returns,” said Mr Masike.
The expo further enabled learners to gain clarity on application closing dates, programme offerings and university admission requirements.
Ms Kim Matebele, a Grade 12 learner from Crystal Park High School, said she visited the VUT stand to explore her higher education options.
“I wanted to find out more about VUT’s courses and application closing dates. I have not applied yet, but I wanted to broaden my options for next year,” she said.
Although aware of the approaching application deadlines, she remained optimistic about pursuing a qualification in engineering.
“I am definitely nervous because applications are closing soon, but I hope to secure a place in the engineering course I want,” she added.
Another learner, Mr Wonga Mfene from Wordsworth High School, said the expo had changed his perception of the University.
“I had not really considered VUT before, but after looking through the prospectus, I was impressed to see that it offers SAICA-accredited programmes. I am now considering accounting,” he said.
By participating in the EduConnect Future Economy Conference and Career Expo 2026, VUT strengthened its student recruitment efforts while creating meaningful opportunities to engage directly with prospective students. The event enabled the University to address learners’ questions, provide career guidance and showcase programmes designed to prepare graduates for the demands of a rapidly changing world.
The initiative also supports VUT’s Strategy 2033+, which places students, innovation, access and future-ready education at the centre of the University’s growth and development. Through engagements such as these, VUT continues to expand access to higher education and inspire the next generation of graduates, innovators and industry leaders.