A new scholarship programme aimed at filling gaps in the civil service has been launched, with students urged to apply before the end of April.

Diallo Rabain, the Minister of the Cabinet Office and Digital Information, said the Government Public Service Scholarships are intended to support “Bermudianisation” while preparing Bermudians for careers at home.

Mr Rabain said: “The public service is a vital part of the country’s economic and social well-being, so attracting and nurturing high calibre talent is of vital importance to fulfil the Government’s mission to improve the lives of the people of Bermuda.

“The Public Service Scholarships programme will support Bermudians to prepare for critical jobs that are hard to fill here in Bermuda and often globally.

“It expressly links areas of study to specific roles that are needed across the government, as each year the eligible disciplines are designed and targeted around positions that we anticipate will need to be filled or Bermudianised in the foreseeable future.

“This design and forward planning also supports the public service succession planning, as it will ensure that we prepare young people to be the best talent available for key positions throughout the public service.”

Mr Rabain said the scholarships will offer up to $30,000 a year in areas critical to meet future workforce needs.

Recipients will also participate in paid internships during school breaks and have guaranteed employment within the public service after completing their studies.

Mr Rabain added: “A five-year commitment will form part of the agreement to support the new graduates. This programme will ensure the Government is able to fill vital roles with trained Bermudians.”

He encouraged Bermudians to apply, stating that the programme not only offered financial support but creates a clear career pathway while helping students obtain the qualifications and skills needed to strengthen the public service.

Interested Bermudian students can apply online through bermudascholarships.com by April 30, and full eligibility criteria are available online at gov.bm/publicservicescholarships