Biomedical scientist Dr Judy Pretorius is encouraging more young South Africans to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). She says expanding STEM education will help tackle skills shortages, strengthen healthcare, boost innovation and create new employment opportunities.
A South African biomedical scientist says the country needs more young people pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Biomedical Emporium founder Dr Judy Pretorius says South Africa is struggling with a skills shortage, unemployment and the need for more innovation.
She says STEM professionals are becoming increasingly important to the country's long-term economic growth.
Scientists say STEM education develops rare, high-demand skills that can reduce unemployment and create new employment opportunities.
“We're going to foster innovation. We're going to improve health care outcomes, and we're going to strengthen local research and manufacturing.
Manufacturing should not happen in other countries, and then we import back into South Africa. We need to produce ourselves, and this will contribute to a better economy.”
Pretorius says many young people remain unaware of the diverse career opportunities available in science.
“There are some exciting careers. For example, I went into biology and chemistry, and I grew in that, and that led me to enter biomedical sciences. That gave me entry into tissue engineering and formulation skills, biotechnology, medical device development, forensic science, data science, even regulatory affairs and clinical research.
In fact, the sky is the limit.”
Pretorius says this is one of the biggest barriers preventing more youth from entering Trunk Access to quality education is limited in the areas.
“Well, number one, there is limited access to quality education, and I honestly agree with free education. Our country would look very different if our education were affordable and free. But then I would also say that we lack role models. We need more mentorship programs. We need more guidance and practical exposure for our youth. We need to provide stronger support systems.”
she says Trunk Education also has the potential to support entrepreneurship, helping to create the workforce needed in industries such as health care, biotechnology and manufacturing.
When giving advice to learners and university students considering careers in STEM, Pretorius encouraged them to follow their interests and remain curious.
“Stay curious. Remember, you don't have all the answers, but just get started. Try focusing on something where you have a natural interest. For example, natural sciences, biological sciences, etcetera. So focus on something you have a natural interest in. Get started, and then you'll see it naturally evolve into something important where you have a high amount of passion, drive, and commitment.”
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