By Nndivhaleni Mukwevho

The National Skills Fund (NSF) participated in the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training Career Exhibition, held on 24 July 2026 at the Orange Farm Community Multi-purpose Hall in Orange Farm, Johannesburg.

The exhibition brought together approximately 2,700 Grade 12 learners from 12 secondary schools, providing an important platform for learners to engage with institutions across South Africa’s Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector and explore the education, training and career opportunities available to them after matric.

The event was attended by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, who encouraged learners to make full use of the opportunities presented at the exhibition. He urged them to engage with exhibitors, apply for available bursaries and explore the diverse education and skills development pathways available through the PSET sector. The Minister further encouraged learners to share the information they gained during the exhibition with fellow learners who were unable to attend, ensuring that more young people benefit from the opportunities available.

Speaking to the NSF Public Relations and Communications team, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training highlighted the importance of exposing learners to the many opportunities available beyond university education.

“For too long, many young people have believed that completing matric means there is only one path to success, the university route. The reality is that South Africa offers a diverse range of post-school education and training opportunities. Through our SETAs, TVET colleges and the National Skills Fund, young people can access quality skills development programmes that lead to employment, entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods. By bringing these opportunities directly to communities such as Orange Farm, we want every learner to understand that if university is not immediately within reach, it does not mean their dreams must end. There are many pathways to success, and each one has the potential to build a brighter future.”

His remarks underscored the importance of ensuring that learners are aware of the diverse education and training pathways available through the PSET sector, particularly in communities where unemployment remains a significant challenge.

Throughout the day, the NSF engaged with learners who visited its exhibition stand, providing information on its skills development programmes, funding opportunities and career pathways aimed at empowering young people through education, training and skills development. Learners had the opportunity to interact with NSF officials, ask questions and gain a better understanding of the Fund’s role in expanding access to skills development opportunities that contribute to improved employability and sustainable livelihoods.

The exhibition also enabled learners to engage directly with institutions across the PSET sector, empowering them to make informed decisions about their future education and career aspirations. By interacting with exhibitors, learners gained valuable insight into the wide range of study, training and funding opportunities available to help them pursue their chosen career paths.

The National Skills Fund values opportunities such as the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training Career Exhibition, which strengthen collaboration between government and the Post-School Education and Training sector while connecting learners with opportunities that can shape their futures. Through continued participation in career exhibitions and outreach initiatives across the country, the NSF remains committed to expanding access to quality skills development and contributing towards a capable, skilled and employable citizenry.