The City of Johannesburg’s Library and Information Services (LIS) hosted a successful career guidance session for Grade 12 pupils at the Ferndale Recreation Centre in Randburg on Friday, 25 April. Matete Lesele, Senior Librarian at the City’s Randburg Library, convened and coordinated the event. He guided the pupils through the day’s programme, shedding light on the wide array of career opportunities available to them.
“By bringing together institutions of higher learning and local high schools, the expo aimed to expose students to a variety of study and career options,” said Lesele. “We wanted to create a space where learners could ask questions, explore opportunities, and gain clarity on their future paths. Ultimately, we sought to inspire informed decision-making, promote lifelong learning, and support youth development through access to educational resources and networks.”
Sindisiwe Xakaza from the University of Johannesburg shared that the institution had received over 500,000 applications for the 2025 academic year. “Since the institution and other universities can only accommodate a fraction of this number, it is imperative for learners to have multiple alternatives,” she noted.
Several institutions were present, including Boston City Campus, HAS Hospitality (which offers culinary programmes), a School of Arts specialising in motion pictures and related fields, and ETA Sports and Fitness, which offers qualifications in sports science—one of the fastest-growing global career paths. Representatives from each institution shared their offerings with the eager learners.
Matriculants also explored options in fashion design through the Fashion Institute, and emergency medical services via Medcare Education, where a career in saving lives was described as “a job with purpose”.
Vincent Keith Kwashira, a Grade 12 pupil from Winners Academy in Randburg, said: “I want a career in aviation after matric. I also love sound engineering. This session has been very helpful—I’ve even received assistance with filling in application forms for various institutions.”
Aaliyah Zulu from Oceans High School added that while she aspires to become a doctor, the event had opened her eyes to alternative paths toward achieving her goals. Teacher Xolisile Busakwe, who attended in support of her learners, emphasised the importance of such initiatives: “Not all learners are going to follow traditional academic careers like becoming doctors, teachers or lawyers. Events like this expose them to many other viable and fulfilling options.”
Written by Maseipati Tsotsotso