What began as a typical rainy school day turned into an extraordinary event for learners at Paterson High School recently, thanks to an inspiring Career Day organised in partnership with Standard Bank.
The event introduced learners to diverse career options and cutting-edge technology, while offering opportunities beyond their community’s socio-economic challenges.
The highlight of the day was Pepper, a humanoid robot brought in by Standard Bank and Kunda Disrupt, to showcase the future of artificial intelligence. “At first, I was shocked, but it made me realise this is what the future looks like,” said the school’s Head Boy, Oswin Whitebooi, who was one of the lucky students chosen to ask Pepper a question.
After the assembly, the learners explored a buzzing career expo featuring over 45 exhibitors, including Nelson Mandela University, Rhodes University, and the East Cape Training Centre. Grade 12 learners and their parents eagerly engaged with representatives, receiving valuable advice on post-school options. The event concluded with a dramatic rescue demonstration by the Eastern Cape Emergency Medical Team, captivating the learners, and emphasising the importance of careers in emergency services.
Deputy Principal, Kenneth Prins, reflected, “This event was invaluable in showing our learners what’s possible beyond their community and giving them hope and direction for the future.” A Life Orientation teacher, Nadeera Pietersen, said, “It was a huge success, from the assembly with Pepper to the learners interacting with the robot, and ending with the Eastern Cape Emergency Medical Team’s rescue demonstration.”
