The Durban University of Technology (DUT) showcased its career opportunities during the Annual Nelson Mandela Day Career Development Festival, which was held today, 18 July 2018 at the Mandela School of Science and Technology, uMvezo village, uMthatha in the Eastern Cape.

DUT Student Recruitment Officer, Michael Zulu who was part of the team representing DUT in this event, said learners displayed great enthusiasm towards programmes offered by DUT. “Learners were asking questions and engaging with us, which was very encouraging. There was a great interest in nursing and some showed interest in engineering related studies as well as management sciences,” said Zulu.

Zulu added that most schools from the rural areas had limited access to information, with some schools receiving CAO forms very late. “We discovered that there is a serious challenge with schools in rural areas in terms of accessing CAO forms, and we have decided that something needs to be done in addressing this challenge going forward. We have also committed in visiting this area every year,” added Zulu.

This annual event took place in a historic place, uMvezo, which is the birthplace of the celebrated South African and international icon, our former President, Nelson Mandela. The Festival was held on a historic day, 18 July, which is celebrated as a Mandela Day – a day that calls on us, to make our world a better place.

The Annual Nelson Mandela Day Career Development Festival was held under the theme, “Nelson Mandela Centenary 2018 – Be the Legacy”. It was attended by about 2000, grade 9, 10, 11 & 12 learners from uMthatha and surrounding, and it was addressed by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Ms Naledi Pandor.

Some of the higher education institutions that participated in this event include the Central University of Technology, Rhodes University, University of Zululand, Nelson Mandela University and local TVET colleges.

Pictured: DUT’s Michael Zulu and Tex Peters with learners from a local school during Annual Nelson Mandela Day Career Development Festival, held today, 18 July 2018 at the Mandela School of Science and Technology, uMvezo village, uMthatha in the Eastern Cape.

Nduduzo Ndlovu