Minister Winde Officially Welcomes 2014 PAY Project Interns

This year, the Western Cape Government will invest a further R27 million in work experience internships for matriculants, through the Premier’s Advancement for Youth (PAY)
Project.

Alan Winde, Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, will officially welcome the 2014 PAY Project interns at the Western Cape Sport School in Kuils River this morning (4 April 2014).

The PAY Project was established by Premier Helen Zille in 2011 and is managed by the Department of the Premier.

On Monday, the 776 interns will start one-year internships at the one of Western Cape Government’s 13 departments.

“This is a great opportunity for our young people to obtain the on-the-job experience they need to get their first foothold into the economy. Our goal is to ensure that all youth have access to learning and employment opportunities so that they can make a meaningful contribution to the economy and ensure that they live better lives. We’re serious about skills development and over the next three years we will be investing over R300 million in a range of these initiatives,” said Minister Winde.

Between 2012 and 2014, the programme has created 2 251 internships.

As part of their work readiness training, they receive an induction into how national and regional governments work. 

During their internship they complete several skills development courses. These include financial management, IT training, CV writing and interview skills.

“I hope that the young people participating in the project take full advantage of this opportunity. They will receive valuable experience and an excellent foundation for their future careers. This is an opportunity that will change their life course forever if they choose to seize it,” said Minister Winde.