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By Levy Masiteng
Higher Education and Training Minister Nobuhle Nkabane and Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga have joined forces to get young South Africans interested the SA National Defence Force and ensure that it is future ready,
The two departments hosted a historic career expo at Tempe military base in Bloemfontein on Friday.
“This Defence Career Expo is both timely and important, in a world characterised by constant technological advancements, shifting global dynamics and increasing demand for national security, the role of post-school education in building a skilled, capable, innovative and future-ready defence force is forever critical,” Nkabane said.
Citing former president Nelson Mandela, she reminded the gathering that education was the most powerful tool that could be used to change the world.
“Today, we are here not just to inform, but to inspire. The young people in attendance represent the future of our nation—it must be exhibited to all of you, that careers in the defence sector are not only exciting and ‘sexy’, but deeply rooted in discipline, innovation and service to this wonderful nation.”
Nkabane emphasised the importance of career guidance and development services, highlighting her department’s commitment to empowering young people.
She said it was essential that they received appropriate and adequate career guidance and advice.
The expo, at Tempe’s sports ground, buzzed with excitement as students, educators and industry professionals gathered to explore the various career paths available in the defence sector.
It included pupils from Tjhebelopele Primary School in Bloemfontein showcasing their cadet skills, demonstrating discipline and teamwork.
Nkabane told the students to dive into the exhibitions, spark their curiosity and fuel their dreams.
“Furthermore, on days outside of this expo, you are strongly encouraged to visit our colleges, such as Motheo, Goldfields, Flavius Mareka and Maluti,” she said.
During the event, the international scholarship team provided information on opportunities, including the Chinese government scholarship for the 2026/27 academic year.
Eligible South African students were encouraged to apply for the scholarship to pursue Chinese language studies before 30 September 2025.
The delegation also visited Tjhebelopele Primary School as part of a defence department outreach programme, where Sergeant Major Pearce led a ceremonial flag-hoisting, proudly raising the South African national flag at the school as a special tribute to the programme.
Nkabane told the expo the collaboration would also facilitate access to post-school education and training, including TVET colleges, universities and CET colleges.
The two ministers beamed with enthusiasm, eagerly anticipating a successful and productive partnership.
“Today, we go far—together—by building bridges between our post school sector and the defence forces, ensuring that young South Africans are equipped not only with skills, but also with a vision for their future,” Nkabane said.
“Let this Defence Career Expo be the beginning of a renewed and deepened collaboration—one that helps secure our nation’s sovereignty and the empowerment of our youth.”
INSIDE EDUCATION