The South Australian Government is embarking on a major campaign to promote careers in the State's defence and resource sectors to young people.
Using the catchy slogan, ‘There’s More To It Than You Think’, the campaign is encouraging Year 9 and 10 students to consider careers in the State’s future growth industries and to choose maths and science as a pathway to these careers.
Deputy Premier Kevin Foley has endorsed the “There’s More To It …” campaign, which was launched at the National Careers and Employment Expo at Wayville Showgrounds on Friday 1 May 2009.
Mr Foley says: “We need more students thinking about careers in science, engineering and technology, as well as the mechanical, electrical and construction trades.
“Notwithstanding the current economic slowdown, the State’s future prosperity will continue to be driven by defence, resources and energy, ICT/electronics, advanced manufacturing and construction.
“Remembering that career choices are targeted at opportunities 7 to 10 years in the future, now is the time to be preparing the new engineers, scientists, technicians and tradespeople that will be needed to support these industries.
“Choosing the right subjects in the final years of high school is a vital prerequisite to working in these dynamic sectors,” Mr Foley says.
Research shows Years 9 and 10 can be a period of student disenchantment with maths and science, with fewer than half of all Year 12 students in South Australia studying these subjects.
“We need parents and career influencers, namely teachers and counsellors, to work with us in encouraging the study of maths and science and promoting science-related careers.
Mr Foley says one positive development in the current economic downturn was more young people taking up the option of tertiary and further education.
“‘There’s More to It …’ campaign is timely because it will build on this trend,” Mr Foley says.
Mr Foley says the campaign will promote the experience of 25 ambassadors, young people who can talk about how their interest in maths and science led to rewarding careers in SA’s key growth industries.
The campaign’s Win the Ultimate Workplace Visit involves leading businesses offering work experience places to students as competition prizes.
For further information: www.theresmoretoit.com.au
The campaign involves the Department of Trade and Economic Development, the Department of Education and Children’s Services and the Department of Further Education, Employment Science and Training.
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