UMP delivered an informative virtual career expo where companies from different industries presented soon-to-be graduates with information on the recruitment processes, bursaries and vacancies.
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture student, Thuso Tshiloane is still in awe of how the university pulled together such a magnificent event in the middle of COVID-19 and the lockdown. He says the career expo was insightful and gave him all the information he needed to start looking for employment opportunities.
“The presentations were helpful, especially the one from OVC, which places agricultural students abroad. The information they shared has empowered me to increase my skills and knowledge internationally," he says.
Tshiloane says the presentations about the opportunities that lie ahead after he obtains his degree were invaluable. The transition from the normal physical career expo to it being held virtually will also assist students who missed the expo as it’s available online. As students, we have a lot on our minds so we can easily get distracted and when it’s time to apply for a job or internship I can always go back to the video on UMP YouTube to check all the requirements."
After graduating Tshiloane wants to be an Agriculture Extension Officer and the speakers in his field have equipped him with knowledge on how to go about applying for internships for next year.
“Applying for land allocation and funding from the Department of Agriculture would be my first step as I want to play a role in job creation and poverty alleviation. Now I know where to start with job hunting. There are plenty of opportunities out there."
UMP Student Engagement Division Senior Manager, Mr Raymond Mkhwanazi says the 2020 career expo was informative and insightful and was a different experience because of COVID-19 and the lockdown but it was worth it for students.
The division requested companies and the department to give presentations through zoom meetings, which were recorded and presented as an event to the students.
“The institution provided a platform for prospective employers to give information on what skills and subjects are needed if students want to work in a certain company or certain career. It was a different experience from the previous career expo because the Covid-19 pandemic presented a new normal to us and we had to adapt to the global situation."
Another student studying Bachelor in Development Studies, Simon Mashile, says the career expo assisted him to be informed on which channel to take when it comes to his career choices.
“I want to be a development officer and I got the information I needed to go about getting there. This was my second time attending the career expo and whenever I attend new knowledge is gained,” he says.
Students who missed the career expo can watch the videos on the UMP YouTube channel.
@ Story by Cleo Makhaga. Pictures: Supplied.