The Department of Public Works (DPW) has awarded full bursaries to 50 learners (Matric Class of 2013) who will study for careers in the built environment industry, as part of the government’s priorities to build a skilled and capable workforce.
Bursary beneficiaries were selected from 15 schools across the country participating in the Department of Public Works’ Schools Programme aimed at promoting the teaching of Maths and Science as well as the Built Environment professions.
DPW adopted the 15 schools in the Schools Programme and were piloted in five regional offices of the DPW, including Polokwane, Mmabatho, Kimberly, Mthatha, Port Elizabeth and Head Office (Pretoria).
The schools were recommended by the Department of Basic Education through District Offices. The selection criteria used included:
• schools that are performing at an average of 65% and above
• schools with learners performing above 65% in Maths and Science
• less resourced schools
• schools situated in rural, farm and township areas
Each bursary is valued at R120 000 and will cover tuition, residential fees including three meals a day, textbooks, academic projects and resources including a monthly allowance.
The Department ‘s bursary programme is part of an array of initiatives by the public works sector to build a sustainable national skills pipeline, targeting pertinent fields in the construction and property industries – the two sectors which are regulated by Public Works. The other is the Young Professional Programme which recruits and hires graduates in these fields for the purpose of mentoring them to gain their professional registration.
In November 2013 the Minister of Public Works, Mr. T.W Nxesi, handed over certificates to 26 young Professionals who have successfully attained professional registration status after being part to the Department’s Young professionals Programme.
The young professionals programme provides structured mentorship support, exposes candidates to national and international projects covering training areas in the following fields: Engineering (Structural, Civil, Electrical and Mechanical), Quantity Surveying, Construction Project Management, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Town Planning, Property Valuation and Interior Design.
More information from Lucky Mochalibane, Cell: 082 899 9775
