Meet four young scientists that are starting their transformative internships through the Introduction to Biotechnology and Bioprocessing Skills Programme.
The transition from academic study to a professional career can be daunting, especially in specialised fields like biotechnology where practical experience is paramount. Many young graduates find themselves caught in the frustrating cycle of needing experience to get a job but needing a job to get experience. Through UVU Bio’s skill development initiatives, young scientists are gaining the exposure and technical confidence needed to build careers in Africa’s growing bioeconomy.
Since 2023, UVU Bio has trained over 250 people, offering them valuable hands-on lab and technical experience in a field where job opportunities can be difficult to access without practical skills. Approximately 70% of those trained have been women, and on average, 30% have secured employment, demonstrating the tangible impact this initiative has on building a more inclusive, skilled bioeconomy.
Get a glimpse into the lives of Yamkela, Zaakira, Julia, and Ashley as they begin their exciting internships through the Introduction to Biotechnology and Bioprocessing Skills Programme is in partnership with GIZ South Africa, Lesotho & eSwatini as part of SAVax, Vaccines for Africa.
Yamkela Mkam interning at The Biovac Institute
When Yamkela Mkam (22), the youngest in UVU Bio’s Introduction to Biotechnology programme, speaks about his upcoming internship, his words carry a mix of gratitude, honesty, and hope. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to gain practical work experience because I’ve seen how tough it is for graduates to find jobs”. For Yamkela, who is still an undergraduate, learning and working alongside graduates and postgraduates at UVU Bio’s Bioeconomy Skills Centre, has been an eye-opener.
Even though Yamkela is nervous about his first internship, he is excited to use the soft skills he learnt during his work readiness training. “I realized the importance of being someone that’s adaptable and a pleasure to work with, I aim to be that person during my internship”.
Yamkela credits UVU Bio with teaching him how to truly use resources like LinkedIn. “I thought LinkedIn was just a page for jobs, I didn’t know it’s social media for careers. I’m now using it to grow my career.” When asked what he’d say to other young people who feel unsure about starting out in science, Yamkela’s message is simple: “Don’t give up when it feels hard”.
Julia Rantasi interning at Afrobodies
Like most graduates, when Julia graduated with a BSc in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, she couldn’t wait to start working. “I was excited, and I applied for many jobs, but they all said I needed work experience.” She quickly realised that she lacked practical work experience because in university they mostly focused on theory. Through UVU Bio’s skills development programme, she’s excited to finally be getting lab experience that she’s been yearning for. “Back in university, we couldn’t use the lab equipment; they’d say they’re expensive, we can’t touch them. But here, we’re using them.”
Julia is nervous and excited about starting her first internship, “I don’t know what’s expected of me. I’m excited to see what’s going to happen, but at the same time, I’m a bit nervous.”
She’s happy to be part of UVU Bio’s community because she doesn’t feel alone. “Being surrounded by people with Masters inspired me to keep studying”. For Julia, this is just the beginning; she’s starting her internship and has plans to further her studies.
Zaakira Thokan interning at The Biovac Institute
For Zaakira Thokan, getting accepted into UVU Bio’s skills development programme was her turning point. After finishing her BSc in Biomedical Science in Johannesburg, she spent months sending out CVs and job shadowing. “It was frustrating because there were no opportunities for people with limited work experience, like me”.
When she got an acceptance call from UVU Bio, she packed up her bags and moved from Joburg to Cape Town. “I was nervous and scared, but I knew this opportunity was going to be a lifechanging, and I was right”.
Zaakira knows firsthand how tough it is to break into science without experience. “I worked for free, because I wanted to gain experience,”.
Without work readiness training and a mindset shift, an internship can feel pointless. “UVU Bio made me realize that I can make this internship a stepping stone into the science field that I’ve been struggling to get into.” Zaakira is nervous but determined: “After I complete my internship, I’m looking forward to become a UVU Bio alumni because I know this will open doors for me,”
Ashley Appollis interning at UVU Bio
Ashley knows what it means to knock and keep knocking. “During my last semester, I heard about the amazing skills development training UVU Bio provides. I became interested and started looking for ways to join.”
He didn’t wait around. Early this year, Ashley went straight to UVU Bio’s facilities in Woodstock. “I was welcomed by the Cape Town Lab manager, Dr Anesu, who told me about upcoming programmes. I walked out excited and determined to apply.”
But it wasn’t instant. “I think I applied for this programme twice before I was accepted; I’m glad I kept trying and didn’t give up.”
Now, Ashley is stepping into a two-year internship at a place he once dreamed of. “I can’t believe I once went to UVU Bio just to find out more, and now I have a two-year internship here. I’m excited that my mentor will be Dr Anesu.” Ashley wants other young people to know it takes more than a CV. “Put yourself out there, in person and online”.
As these young scientists begin their internships, they take the first step towards strengthening Africa’s bioeconomy with their skills, dedication, and fresh perspectives. Building a thriving, inclusive biotechnology sector starts with equipping the next generation to lead it. We invite industry partners to join us by hosting interns, mentoring young talent, or supporting skills development initiatives that grow Africa’s biotech workforce for the future.
The Introduction to Biotechnology and Bioprocessing Skills Programme is in partnership with GIZ South Africa, Lesotho & eSwatini. The project Vaccines for Africa: Roll-out and production in South Africa (SAVax) ensures access to vaccines for all persons living in South Africa and strengthens local vaccine manufacturing and vaccine distribution.
