On Saturday, 17 August 2024 the Durban University of Technology (DUT) School Engagement Project hosted a transformative Career Day at Centenary Secondary School. Participating enthusiastically in the event were the following schools: Centenary Secondary School, Bechet High School, Hunt Road Secondary School and Overport Secondary School. The event aimed to empower learners to become architects of their future, and by all accounts, it succeeded.

Bérénice de La Croix, Project Manager of the DUT School Engagement Project, emphasised the importance of Career Day in helping learners develop a vision and career plan from Grade 9 onwards.
“When learners have a clear plan, they use their time at school more effectively, developing their CV, harnessing opportunities, and attaining good results,” she explained.

The Career Day featured a range of interactive sessions, including entrepreneurship, personal leadership skills, understanding and excelling in the current world of work and career guidance. Learners had the opportunity to engage with the facilitators, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into their desired career paths.

Calebelisha Naidoo, a Grade 11 learner at Centenary Secondary School found the entrepreneurship session particularly inspiring.

“This Career Day helped me a lot. I have a business mindset, and I only needed guidance to pursue my dreams of becoming an entrepreneur. I’m really happy,” said Naidoo.

A Grade 11 learner at Overport Secondary School, Zekhethelo Basi also benefited from the event.

“The Career Day really helped me a lot. It opened our minds and gave us a chance to know more about the careers we want to pursue in the future,” Basi explained.

Ms J Pillay, a teacher from Overport Secondary School highlighted the significance of the Career Day in guiding learners to make informed decisions about their future.

“Many learners are unaware of what happens after Grade 12. Career Day opens their minds, helping them make the best decisions to avoid unemployment,” said Pillay.

Kwazini Zulu, a facilitator from Kulisha, discussed the importance of personal leadership skills in building a meaningful career.

“Developing these skills enables learners to master their strengths and qualities, leading to careers that positively impact society,” Zulu explained.

The event also provided a platform for learners to network and build relationships with peers and industry professionals. This networking opportunity was aimed at benefiting learners in their future lives.
The Career Day hosted by the DUT School Engagement Project was a resounding success, empowering learners to take control of their future and make informed decisions about their careers. By providing guidance, inspiration, and practical advice, the event set learners on the path to becoming architects of their future.

The project management team of the DUT School Engagement Project deeply appreciates their partners and funders that made this event possible: Victor Daitz Foundation, IQRAA Trust, Albert Wessels Trust, Kulisha, Nalini Munisamy and DUT Student Recruitment.

Caption: Learners that attended the DUT Career Day together with their teachers and facilitators at Centenary Secondary School.

Picture: Mnqobi Ngobese

Sinamile Sithole.