The annual ASEZ Career Expo was again held at the West Coast College on 30 September. It was done a little differently, with campus tours preceding the actual expo day from Monday to Thursday to provide the maximum amount of exposure to learners, whilst remaining mindful of Covid-19 protocols.
During these tours the expo learners not only learnt about green economy and its career opportunities but also about technical careers. This includes careers in robotics and digital jobs, coupled with the training and skills required to ready them for their bright future.
The exhibition was designed to be educational but also fun, with students having an opportunity to participate in an interactive workshop and gaining more hands-on knowledge of robotics, together with inspirational stories shared from local achievers said event organisers. “We are so pleased that we are able to help provide opportunities for young people in the Western Cape through events like this hosted by the Atlantis SEZ,” said Minister David Maynier, Western Cape MEC for Finance and Economic Opportunities.
James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Opportunities and Asset Management, said the City of Cape Town is a proud partner of the Atlantis SEZ Green Cape, creating an enabling environment for youth to flourish is a primary focus for the City. “We identified the green economy and technology as high growth sectors and initiatives to ensure that we create a steady skills pipeline for these sectors.
“We are committed to investing in programmes that will foster real economic growth and sustenance for the people of Cape Town, especially our youth,” said Vos.
This year included information shared by local achievers in green economy careers, also highlighting women working in what may be perceived as male dominated industries. Together with the support from exhibitors on the day, which included SAPVIA, the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association, My Machine, Green Cape, Edunova, Ikamva Youth and Xina Box.
Rhazia Hamza, Deputy Principal: Innovation and Development of West Coast College, said the college is excited to continue to be a part of the ever broadening sphere of partners who build and grow the Atlantis Economic Zone and believes with this partnership the college will continue to take hands with the various partners to help grow the education and training opportunities in Atlantis and the surrounding communities.
Hamza said this will lead to more economic independence for members of the community and hopefully ignite the entrepreneurial and green economy flame in their hearts.
Judging by the reaction from learners the event was by all accounts a great collaboration, Hamza concluded.
