Deputy Minister in the Presidency Noncemba Mhlauli has encouraged learners to seize career opportunities, saying education, discipline and early planning remain the foundation for future success.
Speaking at the 10th Annual Ephraim Mogale Career Expo in Marble Hall, Limpopo, Mhlauli told hundreds of learners that career expos provide far more than information—they help young people discover new possibilities and shape their futures.
“Explore careers you may never have considered before. Learn about bursaries, training opportunities, entrepreneurship and higher education. Allow your imagination to be awakened,” she said.
Mhlauli urged learners not to allow their circumstances to determine their ambitions.
“I stand before you today as someone who attended a township school. Others here come from village schools. Yet today we serve our country in positions of leadership. That should tell you one thing — your background does not define your future,” she said.
She emphasised that discipline, commitment and consistency are essential ingredients for success.
“Discipline is reflected in how you conduct yourself, how seriously you take your studies, how you respect your teachers and how committed you are to your goals. Good results do not happen by chance,” Mhlauli said.
“They require consistency, hard work and sacrifice. The future you want starts with the choices you make today.”
The Deputy Minister encouraged learners to actively engage with exhibitors throughout the event by asking questions about careers, bursaries, vocational training, entrepreneurship and higher education opportunities.
She also reminded matric learners that applications to universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and other higher education institutions are already open.
“Do not wait for your final matric results before applying. Submit your applications now, secure your student number, and update your results later as they improve,” she said.
According to Mhlauli, delaying applications until after matric results are released could result in learners missing out on available spaces in their preferred programmes.
She further encouraged eligible learners to participate in South Africa’s democratic processes by registering to vote through the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).
“Participating in democracy is not only about voting — it is about shaping the future of your community, your province and your country,” she said.
The annual Ephraim Mogale Career Expo brought together government departments, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), universities, TVET colleges and industry partners to showcase career pathways, bursary opportunities, skills development programmes and employment prospects.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to equip young South Africans with the information, resources and networks needed to make informed career choices and successfully transition from education into the world of work.
