The University of Venda, in partnership with the Think & Feel Right Organisation, hosted a successful career exhibition at Tshifudi Stadium on 28 April 2026, targeting Grade 8 and 9 learners. The initiative aimed to guide learners on career opportunities, subject choices and academic planning at a critical stage in their schooling.
University of Venda officials pose for a photograph with learners and the event organisers
It also emphasised the importance of understanding how school subjects influence career prospects, while encouraging learners to take ownership of their futures.
Speaking at the event, Ms Phophi Makuya highlighted the organisation’s five-year partnership with the University of Venda, commending its commitment to education and community upliftment. She noted that the university continues to provide reliable information on higher education pathways, courses and admission requirements, making it a valuable and accessible option for local learners.
“We continue to invite the University of Venda because they provide reliable information on higher education pathways, available courses, admission requirements and academic guidance,” she said. “They also represent a local and accessible university option for many learners in our communities.”
(Left) Ms Phophi Makuya addresses learners during the career exhibition. (Right) Mrs. Mampuele Lego shares valuable information about the University of Venda and its academic opportunities
She added that the five-year partnership has helped build a trusted relationship with a repu-table institution, ensured consistent and high-quality career guidance for learners, supported long-term academic aspirations and strengthened the connection between secondary schools and tertiary institutions.
Representing the University of Venda, Mr Takalani Thabo urged learners to begin preparing for their futures immediately by choosing subjects that align with their desired careers and meet university entrance requirements within the next three to four years.
(Left) Mr Takalani Thabo engages and entertains learners while proudly promoting the University of Venda’s presence at the exhibition. (Right) Mrs Legodi assists a learner with registration during the event
“You must listen to your teachers, work together in groups and remain focused on your stud-ies,” Mr Thabo said. “The decisions you make now will determine the opportunities available to you in the future.”
Mrs Mampuele Legodi, Manager in the Faculty of Management, Commerce and Law, also ad-dressed learners, sharing information about the University of Venda’s four faculties and the programmes they offer. She encouraged learners to remain dedicated to their academic jour-neys and strive for success.
As part of the university’s contribution to this initiative, brochures were distributed to learners in attendance, providing detailed information on programmes, career options and admission processes.
Teachers welcomed the initiative, saying it exposes learners to valuable knowledge long before they reach Grade 12. Mr Lufuno Mutshotsho, a Life Orientation teacher from Vuvumutshena Secondary School, said the exhibition would help learners stay motivated and make informed choices. “These learners are receiving important guidance early. With continued support from teachers and motivation, they will understand what is required of them to achieve their goals,” he said.
(Right) Mr Lufuno Mutshotsho from Vuvumutshena Secondary School reads information about the Univer-sity of Venda while a learner attentively follows the presentation
One of the learners who benefited from the exhibition was a 15-year-old Ms Onewa Rambiri, a Grade 9 learner from Randogwana. She said the event had opened her eyes to opportunities in higher education and career planning.
“I want to become a medical doctor or a chartered accountant,” she said. “This exhibition has helped me understand how to apply to university and the different study options available after school.”
Onewa, who comes from the deep rural area of Ha Lambani said access to academic informa-tion is often limited in her community. She added that she is now determined to focus on her studies, particularly pure Mathematics and Physical Sciences, while avoiding disturbances such as excessive social media use.
Several institutions and organisations participated in the exhibition, including Westfalia, Madzivhandila College, Vhembe TVET College, Vuwa College, Eskom Expo, Girl Fly Africa, the Department of Safety and Transportation, and Muvhenzhe (K C) Attorneys, among others. Ap-proximately 300 learners from various schools attended the event.
Organisers described the exhibition as more than just a career awareness programme, saying it is a platform that empowers young learners to make informed decisions, gain confidence in their futures and take the first steps toward achieving their dreams.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
