Twelve local high school pupils swapped their classrooms for municipal offices as Midvaal Local Municipality hosted its first Take a Girl Child to Work initiative on 12 August.
Learners from Meyerton High School, Rusoord Secondary, Hoërskool Dr Malan and New Hope Secondary took part in the programme, which gave them a closer look at careers in local government and public service.
The girls were paired with female employees from various municipal departments, who introduced them to their daily responsibilities and shared their career journeys.
The mentors also gave the learners a behind-the-scenes look at how different departments within the municipality operate and the range of careers available in local government.
Midvaal Executive Mayor Ald Peter Teixeira encouraged the learners to focus on their education and future ambitions.
“Prioritise your studies and work towards building a successful future,” Teixeira told the learners.
The programme was also aimed at exposing the pupils to female role models working in different areas of the municipality, while giving them an opportunity to learn more about leadership and public service.
For the participating learners, the visit offered a chance to experience a working environment outside the classroom and explore career paths they may not previously have considered.
The municipality said it hopes initiatives of this nature will encourage more young women to consider careers in public service and leadership.
