As part of the National Youth Service (NYS) programme, 125 unemployed science graduates have been placed at 22 science and technology institutions countrywide for a period of six to 24 months.

The DST’s Youth into Science Strategy specifies the need to develop human resources for the National System of Innovation. The strategy also seeks to improve the employability of successful school leavers and graduates through youth service programmes.

Speaking at the launch of the DST's NYS at the University of Pretoria's SciEnza Centre earlier today, Minister of Science and Technology Mosibudi Mangena expressed his pride in young people who were committed to improving the quality of life in South Africa.

"I am proud to be standing here today among young people who are committed to improving the quality of life of their fellow citizens by contributing to the development of science and technology."

The Minister said that after taking part in the programme these young people would be much better equipped for the world of work and further education, and thus able to make significant contributions to the South African science and technology landscape.

He added that he was overwhelmed by what the NYS had achieved since its inception in January 2008.

"The programme has arranged for volunteers to lend a hand in organising National Science Week, help learners in mathematics and science lessons and workshops, and assist in laboratory practicals at the science centres," he explained.

Coordinated by the Presidency, the NYS seeks to support nation-building by involving young people in the delivery of government services, enabling them to acquire and apply skills and values while serving the community. It emphasises civic duty, structured learning and personal development in preparation for further learning or formal employment.

A wide range of agencies are involved in this, including government departments, municipalities, community-based organisations, NGOs and various private sector organisations.

The DST collaborates with the National Science and Technology Forum and various science and technology institutions to manage and implement its part of the NYS, which targets unemployed science graduates who need experiential learning to help them acquire the skills they need for employment.

About the Federation for Engineering, Science and Technology Olympiads and Competitions (FESTOC)

FESTOC is an umbrella body for the organisers of national science, technology and engineering competitions and Olympiads, and disseminates information about these, particularly to schools.

It seeks to identify and nurture historically disadvantaged learners with talent and potential in the science and technology field.

Issued by the Department of Science and Technology

For media enquiries contact Zama Mthethwa, Assistant Director: Communication and Media Liaison, at 012 843 6781/082 808 3956 or zama.mthethwa@dst.gov.za.

For more information about NYS and FESTOC contact Mr Lebs Mphahlele, Manager: Youth and Science, at 012 843 6875/082 944 0011 or lebs.mphahlele@dst.gov.za.