MORE than 20,000 jobs are up for grabs at the largest career and education exhibition, which opens its doors to the public on Thursday at Suntec Singapore.

Over 600 exhibitors and companies from 20 countries are looking to fill the openings, which include more than 5,000 spots in educational institutions.

The Singapore Tourism Board has projected that some 50,000 to 60,000 additional jobs will be created by the end of 2010.

Minister of state for Education and Manpower Gan Kim Yong, who was present at the opening ceremony on Thursday morning, said: 'The new integrated resorts, hotels and shopping malls, as well as conventions and events like the F1 race, will generate numerous opportunities in the tourism sector.'

He emphasised the importance of students making informed decisions on their courses of study and, subsequently, their careers.

The new features of the exhibition, which has been running for over 20 years, include a scholarship corner, which provides information on the scholarships available, as well as an online job and course search.

Another first is the Silver Talent Pavilion, where mature workers will be able to seek employment in the landscape, healthcare and security sectors.

Said Ms Lynette Loo, the project director of ERC institute who expects to recruit more than 100 new students: 'Of all the students who sign up, we expect 40 per cent to sign up for tourism courses. It is such a popular area now.'

The event, Career 2008 & Education 2008, will run till March 2 at Suntec Singapore in Halls 601 to 603 on level 6. Admission is free.