Over 1,000 Grade 9 students attend inaugural career pathways fair in Mombasa

Over 1,000 Grade 9 students from 20 institutions across Mombasa County gathered for the first-ever Career Pathways Fair Expo, hosted by the Aga Khan School Mombasa, under the theme Pathways to Possibilities.

The event aimed to nurture students' potential through informed decision-making, real-world exposure, and strategic planning as they prepare for their transition to senior school in 2026.

The landmark expo attracted junior schools from across the region and brought together parents, educators, and community members in large numbers. Designed as a platform for meaningful career exploration, the event provided learners with access to professionals, mentorship, and insights into a wide array of industries.

"The expo was a fantastic opportunity to explore career options I hadn’t considered before. Speaking directly with professionals and university representatives helped me understand what different paths could look like. I feel more confident about the decisions I need to make in the coming years,” said Fatma Yahya, one of the participating students.

Students engaged in interactive sessions, exhibitions, and panel discussions led by industry experts from diverse sectors, including medicine, engineering, law, entrepreneurship, information technology, aviation, hospitality, the arts, and more.

“What stood out for me was the variety of careers represented. Whether you’re into science, business, technology, or the arts, there was something for everyone. The expo made the future feel more exciting and more achievable,” said Leon Sankale.

Another student, Abdulrahman Esmail, noted, “I appreciated how practical the expo was. It wasn’t just about hearing people talk, we got to ask real questions and get honest answers. It helped me see how the subjects I’m studying now connect to actual careers in the future.”

Career counsellor Kaluli Nengo led one of the key sessions, highlighting the three primary career pathways available to learners entering senior school: the Arts and Sports Science, Social Sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).

“Choosing a pathway is not about what subject is more important. It’s about your talents, abilities, and interests. For instance, the Arts and Sports Science stream isn’t only for athletes; it includes careers in Sports Science. Social Sciences cover languages, literature, humanities, and business studies. STEM includes pure sciences, applied sciences, and technical studies,” he said.

Nengo further acknowledged the various challenges students face when making these critical decisions

“Many learners perform well in all subjects, so it becomes difficult to choose. Others struggle due to a lack of exposure, peer pressure, or limited access to career guidance resources. That’s why events like this are essential to offer early, adequate interaction with real-world careers,” Nengo noted.

Speaking at the event, Duncan Were, the Junior School Coordinator, said such events reaffirm the importance of preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

“We recognise the critical importance of guiding our learners early in their career journey. This expo is not just an event, it is a stepping stone for students to discover their interests and begin aligning them with possible future professions.”

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• 000 Grade 9 students attend inaugural career pathways fair in Mombasa

Emily Ifedha, Principal of Aga Khan School Mombasa, said the event is part aimed at equipping learners with confidence and purpose for their future.

“The Career Pathways Fair Expo is part of our broader mission to equip learners with the tools, exposure, and confidence to navigate their future with clarity and purpose. We are thrilled to host such a meaningful and impactful event.”