By Charmaine Ndlela & Lebone Rodah Mosima
For Grade 11 and 12 learners still weighing their career options, the Educonnect Media Future Economy & Career Expo 2026 offered a one-stop platform to explore study opportunities, emerging careers and the skills needed for the future economy.
Held at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) Business School on Monday, the expo brought together high school learners, parents, educators, universities, TVET colleges and industry leaders in an effort to help young people make informed decisions about their studies and future careers.
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Throughout the day, learners toured the various exhibition stands, engaging directly with representatives from higher education institutions, companies and organisations offering information on study programmes, careers, bursaries, internships and other opportunities.
Many learners used the opportunity to ask questions about career paths they were considering, while others sought clarity on admission requirements, qualifications and the skills they would need to remain relevant in a rapidly changing job market.
The programme focused on sectors including artificial intelligence, fintech, logistics, supply chain, digital transformation, emerging technologies, retail, manufacturing, engineering, hospitality, entrepreneurship and future skills.
Universities exhibiting at the event included Wits University, the University of the Free State, UJ, Rhodes University, North-West University, Tshwane University of Technology, UNISA and Vaal University of Technology.
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Other participating institutions included the AAA School of Advertising, Netcare Education, Inscape, SACAP and Open Window, alongside TVET colleges and corporate partners.
Industry exhibitors included the CSIR, NMMF, SNG Grant Thornton, Wray Castle Africa, VW Hatfield, Cultural Care Au Pair and Southpoint Student Accommodation, among others.
Learners were able to collect information from the different exhibitors and provide their details to institutions and organisations offering opportunities aligned with their interests.
The expo provided direct access to information on bursaries, internships and graduate programmes, while career guidance was offered across fields including business, technology, innovation, finance, manufacturing, logistics and entrepreneurship.
