The Durban University of Technology (DUT), in partnership with Ubukhosi Emfundweni under the Mpumuza Traditional Council, empowered more than 600 learners during the Mpumuza Career Expo held on Thursday, 30 April 2026, in Pietermaritzburg.
The initiative, hosted for the second consecutive year through the partnership between DUT and Ubukhosi Emfundweni, aimed to equip Grade 11 and Grade 12 learners with valuable information about higher education opportunities, career pathways, and the importance of early academic planning.
Learners from schools across the kwaMpumuza area attended the programme, demonstrating strong collaboration between the community and educational institutions in supporting the future of young people.
The expo commenced at KwaMncane Hall and concluded at eMasimini Hall, bringing together learners from Mncane High School, Skhululiwe Secondary School, St John Paul Secondary School, Msimude High School, Siyanda Secondary School, and Laduma High School.
Speaking on behalf of Ubukhosi Emfundweni, Mr Thokozani Ngubani expressed his appreciation for the continued partnership with DUT.
“We are proud to once again collaborate with DUT to bring such an important initiative to our community. This programme is about opening doors and ensuring that our learners are equipped with the knowledge they need to shape their future,” he said.
Representing DUT’s Student Recruitment team, Mr Zwelakhe Ngwazi guided learners through the university application process, explaining that prospective students apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) and may access financial assistance through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
“It is important for learners to apply on time, pay attention to application opening and closing dates, and ensure that application fees are paid to avoid disappointment or unnecessary gap years,” he emphasised.
The DUT Student Counselling Unit also engaged with learners on the importance of making informed career choices. Learners were encouraged to identify their strengths, interests, and passions when selecting future career paths. The unit further highlighted that DUT offers free counselling services to support students throughout their academic journey.
The Disability Rights Unit shared information on the support services available for students with disabilities, reaffirming the university’s commitment to creating an inclusive environment where all students have equal access to education and support.
Ms Fundiswa Gambu, a teacher from Mncane High School, welcomed the initiative and praised its impact on learners.
“This expo has given our learners the exposure they need at a crucial stage of their academic journey. It has motivated them and given them clarity about their future,” she said.
Nosibonakaliso Madlala, a Grade 12 learner from Skhululiwe Secondary School, also expressed her excitement about the opportunity.
“This expo helped me understand the courses offered at DUT and their requirements. I will now focus on my studies and work hard to achieve results that will help me enrol at DUT next year,” she said.
Through initiatives such as the Mpumuza Career Expo, DUT continues to strengthen its commitment to community engagement, empowering young people with knowledge and inspiring the next generation to pursue higher education.
The programme was further supported by the Faculty of Applied Sciences, the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, the Ecotourism Department, the Student Counselling Unit, and the Disability Rights Unit.
Caption: Learners at Mpumuza Career expo engaging with the DUT staff member for career guidance.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Sinamile Sithole
