Over 5 000 learners expected at Scholastica 2026 Expo in Bulawayo

Andile Tshuma Zimpapers writer

MORE than 5 000 high school and tertiary students are expected to attend the Scholastica 2026 Expo in Bulawayo next month as the education and skills development showcase seeks to strengthen linkages between learning institutions and industry.

The three-day expo, running from September 16 to 18 at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre, will be held under the theme “R.I.S.E: Be Ready, Inspired, Skilled and Empowered.”

Now in its second year as a standalone exhibition, Scholastica is positioning itself as a platform for learners to explore career opportunities, develop skills and engage directly with industry and other players in the education value chain.

Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company marketing and corporate communications manager Mr Thando Nkomo said preparations for the expo were progressing well, with strong interest from schools, tertiary institutions, career consultants and corporate partners.

“The momentum is building rapidly. We are seeing unprecedented excitement from schools, tertiary institutions, career consultants and corporate partners who recognise that bridging the gap between industry and academia is no longer optional,” he said.

This year’s edition will introduce a structured Buyers Programme aimed at connecting institutional buyers, procurement officers and education stakeholders with suppliers and service providers within the education sector.

The expo will also have a different focus each day, with the first day dedicated to the creative economy, the second focusing on education policy and corporate networking, while the final day will spotlight careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Mr Nkomo said the expo was designed to expose learners to opportunities beyond traditional career paths and equip them with information and networks needed to make informed career choices.

“Scholastica 2026 is a deliberate platform to match ambition with opportunity. By bringing 5 000 learners face-to-face with industry giants, we are actively shaping the workforce of tomorrow,” he said.

The expo comes as Government continues to emphasise skills development, innovation, entrepreneurship and the alignment of education with the needs of industry as key drivers of economic transformation and Vision 2030.