(Centurion) – With most universities starting to finalise their intake for 2018, school leavers undecided about their future can explore a world of study alternatives when the High School Career Expo comes to Pretoria on July 28 and 29.

Almost 30 exhibitors are set to showcase their technical and vocational education and training opportunities during the two-day expo at Centurion’s Forest Hill City mall, exposing pupils to such diverse possibilities as beauty and flying schools, engineering and technical colleges, and even scuba diving and dance academies.

“Many learners, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, aren’t aware of all these fields of study and the career paths that are open to them.

“For example, they don’t know that studying beauty therapy is not just about working in a salon but also presents opportunities to work on cruise ships and travel the world,” said Forest Hill City marketing manager Annah Moremela.

Last year’s expo had attracted more than a thousand pupils from high schools in and around Centurion and that even more were expected to attend this year, she said, adding that hosting the expo allowed the mall to continue its support for educational initiatives by giving pupils the complete picture in terms of further study options, in addition to those offered by universities.

“Prospective students and their parents will find the necessary tools for identifying and getting a tertiary education that meets their needs and helps them to succeed in a working career.

“For those pupils who are still unsure about their choices, they will also be able to book a psychometric assessment, which will help to establish where their strengths and interests lie.”

Moremela said all exhibitors would be included in the line-up of speakers and present short motivational talks on their particular field of expertise.

She said these would include experts from the more traditional fields such as the legal profession and the information technology department at the University of Pretoria.

“Representatives from National Treasury will also speak to the importance of budgeting and saving money for the future.”

Entrance to the in-mall expo is free and it will be open from 9am to 3pm daily. Follow the mall on Facebook for more information.