The Department of Basic Education (DBE) supported the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) during the 2026 Nelson Mandela Day Career Development Festival in the Western Cape Province from 27 – 31 July 2026, by participating as one of the partner exhibitors. Through its participation, the DBE joined government departments, education stakeholders and industry partners in providing learners with career guidance, subject choice information and post-school education and training opportunities to help them make informed decisions about their futures.

Hosted across Grabouw and Hermanus, the festival provided thousands of learners with access to practical career guidance, information on higher education and training opportunities, and resources to support their transition from school to the world of work.

The festival commenced at Umyezo Wema Apile High School in Grabouw, where approximately 2,000 learners attended the opening programme. Representatives from government, the post-school education and training sector, industry and the media showcased a wide range of study and career opportunities.

Opening the festival on behalf of the District Director, District Coordinator for Senior and FET Phase, Mr Yugoalsav Kudiyarov, welcomed learners and stakeholders, acknowledging the contribution of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and industry partners in preparing learners for life after school.

The Director for Career Development Services at the DHET, Mr Letshego Mokeki, encouraged learners to embrace every educational opportunity available to them, noting that education remained one of the most powerful tools for personal growth and social development. Assistant Director for Career Development Services, Ms Sibongile Hlongwane, provided guidance on subject selection, career planning and the importance of aligning career choices with learners’ interests and strengths. She also encouraged learners to apply early for post-school opportunities and explore available funding options.

Throughout the festival, learners engaged with exhibitors from the DBE; DHET; SABC Education; the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA); AgriSETA; the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA); Tru FM; and uMhlobo Wenene FM. The DBE exhibition focused on the Second Chance Matric Programme, the Three Stream Model and the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme.

The festival later moved to Qhayiya Secondary School in Zwelihle, Hermanus, where Grade 12 learners received practical assistance from the DHET Career Development Services officials with post-school applications, admission requirements and study options aligned with their career interests. Learners were also introduced to the National Career Advice Portal (NCAP), a free online resource designed to help young people explore careers, identify suitable study pathways and plan for further education.