Scholastica 2026 ends on high note

SCHOLASTICA 2026 ended on a high note on Friday bringing together thousands of students from schools across Bulawayo, Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South and the Midlands for career guidance, skills development and exposure to opportunities in different professions.

Organised by the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company at the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition Smart City (ZICES), the three-day education, careers and training expo ran under the theme: “RISE – Ready, Inspired, Skilled, Empowered.”

It provided students with an opportunity to interact with professionals, entrepreneurs and industry experts while exploring career pathways in the arts and humanities, commerce and the sciences.
More than 4 000 students participated during the first two days of the programme, highlighting the growing demand for career guidance initiatives that help young people make informed decisions about their education and future professions.

In an interview ZITF Company Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager on Thursday, Mr Thandolwenkosi Nkomo said the first day focused on careers in the arts, sport and humanities, with activities designed to showcase opportunities within the creative industries.

“Among the highlights was a fashion show that demonstrated how creativity and talent can be transformed into viable career and business opportunities.

“The second day shifted attention to careers within the commercial sector, featuring panel discussions and presentations aimed at exposing students to opportunities in business and related professions. Entrepreneurs and other professionals shared their experiences and insights with learners,” he said.

“The programme concluded with a focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), with workshops and seminars that gave students greater insight into careers in science and technology.”

He said through the different sessions, Scholastica 2026 sought to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the world of work by giving students access to practical career information and professionals already operating in various sectors.

Mr Nkomo said the event also provided a platform for students from different schools and provinces to interact, exchange ideas and broaden their understanding of the career opportunities available to them.
“The conclusion of Scholastica 2026 leaves participating students with greater exposure to diverse career pathways and information that could assist them as they make decisions about further education, skills development and their future careers.”

Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Administrative Officer and Acting Zimbabwe Youth Council (ZYC) Bulawayo Province Manager, Ms Nqobile Bodma drawing on her extensive background as a trained educator shared vital national initiatives designed to foster youth development and vocational growth.

“Students must cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset focused on creating genuine value, emphasising that the future of work is inextricably linked with technology. We encourage you to explore emerging digital opportunities, utilise technology responsibly, and master financial literacy to secure their personal and professional success.”
From Botswana, Ba Isago University Manager for Business Development, Ms Tshegofatso Kgetse, highlighted the incredible global study opportunities available at their institution.

“We have diverse academic programmes and student-friendly approaches that including flexible Untied State Dollars (USD) tuition fee payment structures tailored for international scholars.”

As familiar faces at the ZICES having previously exhibited during the annual ZITF Show, the university continues to build strong educational bridges, opening doors for local students to pursue world-class tertiary qualifications.

A sizable number of exhibitors featured at Scholastica 2026, with two universities from Botswana and India. Among the exhibitors were private and public sector organisations and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).