The South African Medical Technology Industry Association (SAMED) has joined forces with the Youth Employment Service (YES) program to address the critical issue of youth unemployment in South Africa. This partnership focuses on creating opportunities for young people within the growing medtech sector, fostering skills development, and contributing to a more inclusive and robust healthcare industry.
SAMED, with its commitment to advancing patient care through medical technology, recognizes the importance of nurturing young talent and building a skilled workforce for the future. By collaborating with YES, SAMED is taking a proactive approach to empower the next generation and ensure the continued growth and sustainability of the medtech sector.
How SAMED and YES are Making a Difference
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Creating Pathways: SAMED, with its extensive network of member companies, works with YES to identify and create 12-month work placements for unemployed youth within various medtech companies. These placements provide valuable on-the-job experience and exposure to different aspects of the industry.
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Skills Development: The partnership emphasizes skills development, equipping young people with the technical and soft skills needed to thrive in the medtech sector. This may include training programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities, ensuring that participants gain practical knowledge and build professional networks.
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Promoting Transformation: SAMED is committed to transformation within the medtech industry. Through its partnership with YES, SAMED is actively promoting inclusivity and diversity, ensuring that young people from all backgrounds have access to opportunities. This focus on inclusivity helps to build a more representative workforce and fosters a culture of equity within the sector.
Impact and Benefits
The collaboration between SAMED and YES has already yielded impressive results. According to SAMED, the partnership has:
- Created jobs for almost 2,000 youth within the medtech sector, with participation from over 30 SAMED member companies.
- Injected R90 million into the economy through youth salaries alone, demonstrating the economic benefits of youth employment.
- Launched a Women in MedTech forum to highlight the role of women in the industry and encourage more opportunities for female participation.
A Model for Industry Collaboration
The SAMED and YES partnership serves as a model for industry collaboration in addressing youth unemployment. By leveraging its collective resources and expertise, SAMED is creating a positive impact on both individual lives and the overall medtech sector.
This initiative demonstrates how industry associations can play a crucial role in driving social change and contributing to a more equitable and prosperous future for South Africa. By investing in youth development, SAMED is ensuring the continued growth and innovation of the medtech sector while empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals.
South Africa's medical community partners with YES.
Amendment to the Gazette