More than 1 900 students attended the recent Job Readiness Workshop hosted by the Gauteng Region's Counselling and Career Development Unit at the University of South Africa, highlighting growing demand for practical career guidance and employability support among students preparing to enter the workplace.

Click here to read this article in isiZulu.

The workshop, held virtually via Microsoft Teams on 21 April 2026 and hosted by the Vaal Regional Centre, brought together students from across the region for an engaging programme focused on workplace readiness, professional development and career success. Designed to develop essential employability skills, it covered key areas of career preparation, including personal branding, networking, workplace expectations, CV writing, interview preparation and awareness of job-related scams.

Industrial and Organisational Psychologist, Nosipho Jonas, urged students to cultivate self-awareness, authenticity and resilience as key drivers of both personal and professional development. She highlighted that being adaptable and building purposeful networks are essential for succeeding in today’s fast-changing work environment.

Representatives from the Department of Employment and Labour, Lambani Thakhani and Thulisile Mthembu, focused on the importance of safe and responsible job-seeking practices. They warned students about the risks of fraudulent job offers, explained common indicators of scams and encouraged them to use trusted, verified platforms when searching for employment.

Extending the discussion on youth employability, Keabetswe Marumo from Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator urged students to clearly and confidently articulate their skills and experiences, regardless of their background or level of experience. She also encouraged participants to remain open to learning opportunities and actively pursue their professional development.

The workshop concluded with a practical presentation by Maserame Dipale from the Department of Counselling and Career Guidance. She guided students in structuring effective CVs for interviews, helping strengthen their confidence and professional presentation.

Although minor technical challenges occurred during the programme, the organisers adjusted the schedule effectively to ensure that the workshop proceeded without disruption. The session remained engaging and impactful, with students actively participating throughout the discussions.

The workshop’s success reinforced the Gauteng Region’s commitment to supporting student achievement beyond the classroom by creating opportunities that equip students for active participation in the world of work. Organisers will review student feedback and evaluation responses to improve future career development initiatives and enhance upcoming job-readiness programmes. 

* Submitted by Lungisani Nzuzo Mbatha, Intern, Communications and Marketing Unit, Gauteng Region