​As part of Youth Month commemorations, the Gauteng Department of Health is hosting an exciting series of Youth Health Plug Career Expos aimed at introducing young people to a wide range of fulfilling and essential career opportunities in the public healthcare sector.
The career expos will take place from 23 to 27 June 2025 at Gauteng College of Nursing (GCON) campuses and hospitals across the province's five districts. They form part of the Department's Youth Health Plug 2025 campaign, which is designed to empower young people through exposure, interaction, and inspiration, encouraging them to see healthcare not only as a career choice, but as a life-changing opportunity to serve and lead.
From Nursing, Medicine, Radiography, and Pharmacy to careers in Therapeutic Services including Physiotherapy, Nutrition, Dietetics, Social Work, Audiology, and Speech Therapy young people will get a first-hand look at the many ways they can contribute to healthcare in Gauteng. The expos will also showcase careers in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Clinical Forensic Services, and Employee Health and Wellness amongst others.
"By taking career education directly to learners, especially within health campuses and hospitals, we are helping young people see themselves in these critical roles," said Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko. 
"They are the future nurses, doctors, therapists, and paramedics who will lead our health system with skill and compassion."
Information about bursaries and skills development opportunities offered by the Department will be available, including how to study through institutions such as the Gauteng College of Nursing (GCON) and Lebone College of Emergency Care. These institutions provide accredited, high-quality training for healthcare professionals in the province.
The expos are more than just career fairs; they are part of a broader mission to promote health awareness and opportunity among the youth. By including health screenings, youth-friendly services information, and digital storytelling, the Youth Health Plug campaign ensures that the message of health, hope, and purpose reaches as many young people as possible.
Educators, parents, and youth-focused organisations are encouraged to support learners in attending these expos. By planting the seeds of purpose early, the department is helping young people take charge of their future one opportunity at a time. See advert in this week's News Bulletin on the venues and dates of the expos.