Job expo: connecting students and corporate

The University of Cape Town’s (UCT) annual Epic Job Expo is growing bigger and better. Not only are more students and companies coming on board, but the event also has a greater impact that speaks to the university’s strategic goals.

In a day of high-impact networking, skills building, and career exploration, the event on 6 August served as a perfect platform to address graduates’ employability, as thousands of students, some in their final year of study, mixed and mingled with potential employers who were keen on acquiring fresh talent. The action-packed programme offered students access to opportunities – ranging from bursaries and internships to graduate programmes and full-time positions.

“This is about more than just finding jobs,” said Stafford Bomester, the director of UCT’s Careers Service, which organised the event. “Not all graduates will go straight into employment. We’re here to bridge the gap between industry and academia, helping students with mock interviews, CV preparation, and online profiles so they’re aware of their options and ready for the future.”

The range of participating organisations reflects that vision, from auditing and law firms to tech companies, renewable energy leaders, financial services, consulting firms, and banks – including major sponsors from the consulting and international business sectors.

“The Epic Job Expo is where students and companies come together – employers get to build their brand and profile, while students can connect with potential employers.”

Bomester added that the expo, one of the highlights of the academic year, was a win-win situation for both students and the corporate sector. “The Epic Job Expo is where students and companies come together – employers get to build their brand and profile, while students can connect with potential employers, get ideas for starting their own businesses, and explore new industries. It’s an all-round high-impact event.”

He confirmed that 106 companies have signed up this year – the most in the event’s history – making it “one of the largest, if not the largest” recruitment expos on the continent.

UCT Vice-Chancellor (VC) Professor Mosa Moshabela visited the expo and was struck by its scale and buzz. “It’s incredible,” he said. “Having more than 100 companies in one space, across three halls, creates such an energy. You see students not only looking for opportunities but also engaging with ideas around innovation and entrepreneurship. It’s a real example of bringing industry, the university and government together – the triple helix in action.”

Professor Moshabela commended the Careers Service team for the growth of the event. “They work tirelessly to engage employers and build networks that benefit our students,” he said. “It’s mutually beneficial: companies meet top talent, and students gain insight, skills and connections that could shape their futures.”

“Here, you can connect on a human level, ask your questions, and get real answers.”

‘It’s not just about jobs – it’s about connections’

Many students at the expo agreed with both Moshabela and Bomester about the high impact of the event. Third-year business science student Adibene Skweyiya, who has attended the expo for a third consecutive year, noted that the human touch made a difference. “The internet is good for finding opportunities, but it’s not the same as meeting someone face to face,” he said. “Here, you can connect on a human level, ask your questions, and get real answers. It’s not just about getting a job – it’s about figuring out where you fit and what inspires you.”

Fellow student Sanele Mdlozini, also in her third year, said her first two visits were about gathering information. “Now I’m looking for internships and graduate programmes. Speaking directly to company representatives gives you clarity you don’t always get online.”

Qhama Fatyi, a BCom in Economics and Finance student, praised the Sports Centre setup for its accessibility and atmosphere. “It feels more organised and easier to navigate,” she said. “I had a great, insightful conversation with a company representative that could influence my investment decisions – and I didn’t even know they had a newsletter before today.”

Employers value UCT talent

For companies, the expo is a chance to showcase opportunities and tap into one of the country’s most competitive graduate talent pools.

“This is our first time at the Epic Job Expo,” said Ruben Plaat, representing renewable energy giant ENGIE, who were also sponsors. “We want to inspire minds and attract great talent – and UCT has plenty of that. The students’ fantastic questions, their curiosity and hunger to get into the job market and make a difference have been overwhelming.”

McKinsey & Company, a long-time participant and sponsor, views the event as a strategic investment. “We take this very seriously, that is why we are a sponsor,” said senior analyst Alexander O’Riordan. “UCT graduates bring strong skills and fresh perspectives. The students here ask thoughtful, specific questions – they’re weighing their options carefully, and we want them to see what McKinsey offers. This is about making sure talented people know about us, and that we understand what drives them.”

While the expo is a marquee event, the Careers Service maintains year-round support – from career counselling to employer engagement programmes. “The expo is one part of a bigger strategy,” said Bomester. “It opens doors, but it’s also a springboard for deeper collaboration between UCT and industry partners.”