Plan for SA science grads
2008-06-27 14:25
Johannesburg - The Department of Science and Technology on Friday launched a National Youth Service (NYS) programme aimed to tackle unemployment of science graduates, it said.
Speaking at the launch at the University of Pretoria's SciEnza Centre, Minister of Science and Technology, Mosibudi Mangena said that he was proud of young people committed to improving South Africa's quality of life.
"I am proud to stand here among young people who are committed to improve the quality of their fellow citizens by contributing to the development of science and technology," said Mangena.
At least 125 unemployed science graduates have been placed in 22 science and technology institutions nation-wide for six to 24 months.
Mangena said the programme's participants would make a significant contribution to the SA science and technology development landscape as they would be "better equipped for the world of work."
The NYS programme was set to assist unemployed science graduates to gain valuable work experience.
"The strategy is to improve employment for successful school leavers and graduates through the youth service programme," said Mangena.
- SAPA