Honourable Members,   The Framework for Graduate Recruitment Schemes in the Public Service is aimed at recruiting graduates and youth who have already obtained tertiary qualifications but require specialised skills, especially in health, policing, infrastructure planning, engineering, finance and information technology.   Recruitment into the Graduate Recruitment Scheme programme follows the principle of open competition. In line with Public Service Regulations, all employees and qualifying new entrants to a department must be given a fair and equitable participation opportunity.   The scheme has a considerable potential to respond to many of the country’s developmental needs. These include the reduction of unemployment, especially among designated groups, including youth, women and persons with disabilities. It also has the potential to contribute to the eradication of poverty, reduction of inequality and improved service delivery.   In December 2018, the Minister for Public Service and Administration issued the framework for implementation across the Public Service.   Currently, implementation of the framework is ongoing. Departments are required to submit implementation reports on annual basis.   Deliberate programmes to recruit the best graduates into the public service are an essential part of our strategic priority to build a capable state.   #RamaphosaQandA