Science Career Fair gives Students a Glimpse of the Working World

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A Mini-Science Career Fair gave Science students on the Pietermaritzburg and Westville campuses the invaluable opportunity to network with representatives from a variety of top companies and industry leaders on full-time job opportunities, vacation employment, training contracts, learnerships  and various bursary opportunities. 

Companies and organisations represented at the Fair included the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), Dube Trade Port, Cheita, 2Cana, Hyperion,  BSI Steel, ThoroughTec, InteractiveSA and the South African Department of Labour. 

‘Companies are pleased with the calibre of UKZN students.  That is why they come back each year,’ said Graduate Recruitment Officer for the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science and career fair organiser, Ms Karuna Mahadave. 

Mahadave explained that the mini-science career fair aimed to bridge the gap between tertiary education and the working world by providing a platform for students to gain insight into the career possibilities available to them after they graduate. 

UKZN also launched its Graduate Development Programme at the Fair.  The programme aims to recruit home-grown student talent into a career in academia.  ‘Every year, UKZN recruits graduates into various disciplines at various levels as UKZN employees,’ explained Ms Busi Ramabodu, Manager for Human Resources Development. ‘Some of these graduates, if eligible, are awarded bursaries to further their studies at UKZN, and in turn work for the University.’  

The Fair was a hive of activity with students getting the opportunity to ask numerous questions regarding career choices and the unique opportunities each company offers graduates. 

Student, Ms Hilda Tsanga, described the Fair as a useful tool in deciding the best career route for her to follow. 

 ‘The career Fair has been a definite eye opener and I’ve set my sights on one of the companies here already. Let’s hope all goes well,’ said Ms Leanda Mncube.  

Sally Frost