South African Engineers to Learn in France

By Ashley Wichman
02 May 2007

The South African government is partnering with the French government to develop the skills of South African engineers.

Twenty engineers will travel to France for a year long programme between May 2007 and 2008 at Sorbonne University, in partnership with AREVA University.

The twenty come from all areas of engineering and represent several South African companies and government departments. The programme is part of the Joint Initiative on Priority Skills Acquisition (JIPSA).

Felicia Matleketla, programme assistant for JIPSA, said the opportunity will provide important skills for South Africa’s engineering future.

“Part of the training is to get the candidates who already have the critical skills to a more developed career level,” said Matleketla.

“We’re hoping they will train young engineers within the companies and the government.”