Bringing Post-Grade 12 Opportunities to the Youth of Kuruman

Post-Matric Opportunities Information Session

On Saturday, 14 March 2026, the Foundation hosted a Post-Matric Opportunities Information Session at the Ga-Segonyana Town Hall. The session aimed to bridge the information gap between learners, higher education institutions, and funding organisations.

The event brought together Grade 12 learners and parents from various schools across Kuruman, creating an opportunity for families to gain insight into the pathways available after completing school. To ensure broader access, the event was also livestreamed, allowing additional learners and community members to follow the discussions online.

Universities Sharing Opportunities

Representatives from leading universities, including Sol Plaatje University and North-West University, shared valuable information about university life, academic programmes, and application processes.

Learners were introduced to key aspects of higher education such as campus environments, admission requirements, and the importance of selecting study programmes aligned with their strengths and interests. North-West University also highlighted a new initiative designed to assist learners in making informed decisions about their fields of study.

Funding and Career Pathways

Access to funding is one of the biggest barriers to higher education. During the session, representatives from Mediclinic and ER24 shared information about medical training opportunities, encouraging learners from Kuruman and the broader Northern Cape to explore careers in healthcare.

The SIOC Community Development Trust also presented details about their bursaries and youth development initiatives available to young people in the region.

A key message from the presenters was the growing need for learners to pursue science-related careers, as South Africa currently faces a shortage of students entering these critical fields.

Supporting Learners Beyond Academics

The programme also focused on the personal well-being and motivation of learners during their final year of school.

Ayanda Molema, a social worker and beneficiary of SIOC Community Development Trust funding, shared practical mental health advice and encouraged learners to stay focused as they navigate the pressures of Grade 12.

Learners were further inspired by Zonke Nyoni, an educational psychologist from the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, who motivated learners to consider careers in science and offered practical guidance on choosing study programmes within today’s evolving economic and labour market environment.

Creating Opportunities Through Partnerships

The event concluded with an outdoor exhibition session, where learners and parents were able to interact directly with representatives from universities and organisations, ask questions, and explore opportunities for further study and career development.

The success of the session was made possible through the support of partners and sponsors. The Foundation extends sincere appreciation to:

• Xplormatic for providing livestreaming services

• Mediclinic and ER24 for sponsoring learner goodie bags

• Lula Haircare and NomNom Cookies for their generous contributions

Empowering the Future

Through initiatives like the Post-Matric Opportunities Information Session, the Tlotlego Smiles Foundation continues to create platforms that connect learners with the resources, institutions, and mentors they need to succeed.

By empowering young people with knowledge and opportunity, the Foundation is helping to shape a future where learners from Kuruman and the Northern Cape can confidently pursue higher education and meaningful careers.