Jet-Net Youth and Technology Network

Jet-Net (Youth and Technology Network) is an initiative designed to stimulate interest among Dutch high school students in the pursuit of studies and future careers in science and technology. The scheme, which involves schools, industry and the government, was set up to address skill shortages in these fields.

At Boxmeer, both Intervet and Nobilon have access to a limited pool of potential employees with suitable qualifications in the science and technology sectors. As a result, they decided to participate in the Jet-Net initiative in partnership with the local high school. René Aerts, director of manufacturing, explained the logic behind the move: "Developing and producing modern vaccines is exciting and provides both personal and technological challenges to young people with a background in science and technology. Through Jet-Net we aim to unveil this often hidden world to young students and teachers in the hope that they get excited as well."

An introductory meeting with the local Elzendaal college quickly confirmed a mutual interest. As a next step a delegation of teachers visited the Boxmeer site, where they were introduced to Intervet and Nobilon through a series of presentations on infectious diseases, immunology and vaccines and related subjects. All agreed that employees with a sound education in science and technology are an essential resource, and that careers in R&D can be both interesting and rewarding.

The Elzendaal college has identified potential fields of collaboration between the school and the company, and teachers and researchers now meet on a regular basis to discuss the implementation of a collaborative program. On the basis of this initiative, the Jet-Net project may be rolled out to other schools in the region.
 
To achieve Jet-Net's primary objectives, programs are established between individual schools and companies. Ideally these cover the entire school period, but the key is their introduction before students choose subject options. Excursions and guest lectures are a part of an initial orientation program, through which participating companies help schools to provide students with a general understanding of industry and technology. Later, through workshops and projects, students are given assignments through which they learn to present reports on specific themes or develop solutions to specific technological problems. 

Both stages aim to add practical context to the science curriculum, and to enlighten students as to broad career prospects in industry and technology.