The BRICS uMkhanyakude Career Expo Summit, themed “Future-Oriented Career Expo Summit: Empowering Rural Youth Through Scarce Skills Development,” brought together educators, professionals, and community leaders to inspire and empower learners from the uMkhanyakude District. The two-day summit was held on 19 and 20 May 2026 at Sisizakele Special School at Ngwavuma and focused on guiding high school learners on academic and career opportunities beyond matriculation.
Representing the UNIZULU Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering was represented by Mr Mbongeni Buthelezi from the Department of Engineering and Mr Mphilohle Rwarinda from the Department of Computer Science. Their participation formed part of the university’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and the promotion of higher education opportunities within rural communities.
The summit opened with a welcome address by Ukhozi FM radio presenter Nonhlanhla Buthelezi, popularly known as Mroza, who acknowledged the attending organisations and guest speakers before setting an energetic tone for the two-day programme. BRICS Student Commission President Mr Mzweleni Mthethwa delivered a stirring address on the critical need for learners to pursue scarce skills and cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset as a foundation for sustainable futures.
Advocate Mntungwa offered a deeply personal account of his journey from a disadvantaged background to a career in law — a story of perseverance that resonated powerfully with learners navigating their own uncertain paths. Professor Dlangamandla, Head of the Department of Physics at the University of Zululand, echoed this sentiment, reminding learners that on the road to success, one must never lose sight of their roots and community.
Mr Ndlovu from Telkom rounded off the first day by presenting a range of resources made available by the telecommunications company to support both teachers and learners in their preparation for the National Senior Certificate examinations.
The second day of the summit focused primarily on Grade 9 learners and addressed the growing concern of drug and substance abuse among youth. Keynote speakers engaged learners on the dangers of peer pressure and strategies for making positive life choices. Mr Motha encouraged learners to remain focused on their goals and reminded them that they are ambassadors of the uMkhanyakude District, carrying the pride and identity of their communities wherever they go.
During the programme, Mr Buthelezi was afforded an opportunity to present information about the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering at the University of Zululand. His presentation outlined the faculty’s academic programmes, career pathways, and admission requirements, providing learners with valuable insight into opportunities available within higher education.
Following the formal proceedings, Mr Rwarinda and Mr Buthelezi engaged directly with learners, parents, and teachers, offering guidance on academic and career opportunities within the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering, as well as the broader university environment. The engagement contributed significantly towards promoting awareness of higher education and encouraging learners from rural communities to pursue further studies and careers in scarce skills fields.
By Mr Rwarinda and Mr Buthelezi
