A Career Expo held at Loeriesfontein High School connected 347 learners from across the Karoo-Hoogland with the employers and educators they need to thrive – bringing opportunities home and empowering the next generation to dream bigger!
Northern Cape, South Africa (08 April 2026) – Nothing beats an eye-opening experience to expand your world and reveal new possibilities, dreams, and opportunities. For the youth of the Hantam and Karoo-Hoogland regions, the door to the future swung wide open recently at a Career Expo held at Loeriesfontein High School.
The expo created a vibrant space to explore study options, training pathways and future careers. And the response was incredible. More than 300 curious, bright minds from six schools attended the second annual event, with 347 participants in total, including 257 Grade 12 learners, along with Grades 10 to 12 from the host school.
For many travelling from surrounding towns, some from as far as 300km away, the event provided rare, direct access to institutions, employers and career guidance. It responded to a clear need in rural communities, where this kind of exposure is often limited.
“This initiative gives Grade 10–12 learners valuable exposure to a range of tertiary institutions and career pathways. It helps broaden their horizons, empowering them to make informed subject and career choices for the future. For many learners from rural communities, this kind of access is both inspiring and motivating, encouraging them to pursue further study and improve their academic performance,” said Mr Jacques Klaaste, Principal at Loeriesfontein High School.
The Expo offered something for everyone. Learners engaged with a range of opportunities suited to different interests and strengths, including academic study, technical and vocational training, and hands-on career paths.
The Career Expo directly addressed the challenge of limited opportunities in rural communities by connecting learners with institutions, employers, and professionals who can help shape their futures. It was funded by Loeriesfontein Wind Farm and Khobab Wind Farm, as part of ongoing efforts to support education and long-term community development.
Exhibitors included Stellenbosch University, Akademia, Africa Skills Private College, the South African Police Service, a local Rooibos factory in Nieuwoudtsville, Logans Rugby, and two representatives from the wind farms and one from Siemens Gamesa.
By facilitating face-to-face sessions with institutions and employers, the Expo didn’t just provide information – it helped build a roadmap for the future of the Hantam and Karoo-Hoogland communities.
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