By Tandzile Dlamini
MBABANE – The Mayor of Mbabane, Thulani Mkhonto, officially opened the Hhohho Schools Career Expo today at Prince of Wales, where students gathered to explore career opportunities, receive guidance from professionals, and prepare for their future.
The career expo held under the theme “Empowering Futures and Enhancing Diversity: Your Career, Your Choice,” brought together students from schools across the Hhohho region. The event featured interactive exhibitions from universities, government departments, and training institutions ,all aimed at helping students make informed career decisions.
Mkhonto said the expo marked a vital moment for young people standing at a crossroads in their lives. “This career expo is more than just a display of professions,” he said. “It is a reminder to every student here that you have a place in this world, a purpose to fulfil, a voice to raise, and talents to develop.”
He encouraged learners to dream big and reminded them that no career path is too small. “Whether you dream of becoming a doctor, teacher, engineer, farmer, artist or entrepreneur , every profession matters, and every dream is valid.”
The Mayor stressed the importance of being adaptable in today’s fast-changing world of work. He said education must go beyond memorizing facts and focus on building real-life skills like problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and emotional intelligence.
As part of its ongoing commitment to youth development, the Municipal Council of Mbabane is investing in digital infrastructure, promoting innovation hubs, and partnering with institutions that support mentorship and training. The city’s five-year Integrated Development Plan (IDP) recognises human capital as a key driver of economic growth.
“Government schools, universities and the private sector all play a role in shaping our youth. That’s why the presence of every exhibitor here today is so important,” said Mkhonto.He also applauded Mbabane schools for their consistent academic performance in national examinations, including the Eswatini Primary Certificate, Junior Certificate, and EGSECE.
The Mayor urged students to take the expo seriously. “Ask questions. Explore all the options available. Think beyond what you know, and imagine what you can become,” he said.To parents and teachers, he added: “Let us continue encouraging our youth not only to succeed, but to discover their true passions. Education is not just a path to employment, it is a path to empowerment.”
He closed with a quote from Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”The 2025 Hhohho Career Expo successfully inspired learners to take charge of their future,leaving them motivated, informed, and ready to build brighter paths for themselves and for Eswatini.
