By Honest Sihlango
The National Skills Fund (NSF) participated in the 1st Moletši Annual Career Expo, held on 26 March 2026 at the Kgoshi Kgabo Moloto Royal Palace in Moletši, Limpopo. The event brought together key stakeholders in education and skills development to empower learners with information on post-school opportunities and career pathways.
Organised under the Mmakgoshi Mmanare Foundation, the expo was endorsed by the Moletši Traditional Authority under the leadership of His Majesty Kgoshi Kgabo Moloto III. The initiative reflects a strong collaborative effort to bridge the information gap for learners in rural and under-resourced communities.
The expo attracted approximately 5,000 Grade 10–12 learners from over 40 secondary schools in the Moletši area. These learners were given access to a wide range of exhibitors, including universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, Sector Education and Training Authority (SETAs), government departments, and private sector partners. The NSF’s presence was instrumental in providing guidance on funding opportunities, skills development programmes, and pathways into further education and training.
Bursary Team engaging learners, providing guidance on funding opportunities.
As part of the expo, the NSF played a key role by engaging directly with learners, educators and community members on available funding opportunities. Officials provided insights into how the NSF supports education and training programmes, with a focus on priority and scarce skills critical to South Africa’s economic growth. The engagement also highlighted partnerships with public institutions, training providers and implementing agencies responsible for programme delivery. This ensured that attendees gained a clear understanding of accessible pathways into post-school education and the support available to enable their success. A key highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela. In his address, the Minister encouraged learners to remain focused and strive for excellence in their studies.
“Achieving a bachelor’s pass in matric is important, but it does not guarantee space at university. Learners must aim for strong results and explore all available opportunities, including technical and vocational education, to secure their future.”
His message highlighted the importance of informed decision-making and the need for learners to consider diverse post-school pathways beyond traditional university routes.
His Majesty Kgoshi Kgabo Moloto III also addressed the learners, emphasising the importance of education in transforming communities and breaking cycles of poverty.
“Education is the foundation upon which the future of Moletši is built. I urge you to take advantage of opportunities like this expo, remain disciplined in your studies, and become the leaders and professionals our communities need” he said The NSF’s participation in the expo highlights its ongoing commitment to expanding access to education and training opportunities, particularly within rural and underserved communities. Through direct engagement with community members and stakeholders, the NSF is able to demonstrate the tangible impact of its investments in the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector, with a strong focus on advancing skills development, improving employability, and supporting inclusive economic participation
