Empowering the Next Generation: SASSETA Explores Career Pathways with 1,800 Harry Gwala Learners
In a major push to bridge the information gap for rural youth, the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) hosted a massive Career Fair at the ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest on Monday, 12 October 2026.
The initiative successfully brought vital career guidance and skills development information directly to approximately 1,800 Grade 9 and Grade 10 learners from across the Harry Gwala District.
The event is a core component of SASSETA’s flagship Career Choices Programme, which focuses on exposing young people to diverse industries, helping them navigate future study pathways, and equipping them to make informed choices before entering the workforce.
For Grade 9 and 10 learners, the fair arrived at a critical academic juncture. Decisions made at this threshold—such as matric subject selection—directly impact higher education options and future career trajectory.
Moving away from traditional, static career presentations, the fair actively encouraged learners to align their personal interests, unique talents, and long-term aspirations with real-world economic sectors.
“Career guidance is not simply about choosing a job; it is about helping young people understand their potential and the opportunities available to them.”
Juwayria Amod, SASSETA Executive Manager: Learning Programmes.
The interactive fair allowed learners to break out of the classroom environment and engage face-to-face with representatives from various academic institutions and professional organisations.
Through live exhibitions and technical presentations, students gained critical insights into: academic admission requirements for universities and TVET colleges, Skills development programs, learnerships, and bursaries, The surprising variety of specialized career paths available within the broader safety and security ecosystem.
By taking high-impact career resources directly to communities like Harry Gwala, SASSETA aims to dismantle geographic barriers to information.
Ensuring that rural learners have equal access to career counseling not only sets them up for individual academic success, but also serves the broader national goal of driving future economic participation and sustainable skills development in South Africa.
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