Manufacturing businesses across the Highlands and Islands are being invited to meet local school pupils at a series of careers workshops to be held early next year.

Careers Scotland, the national, all-age guidance service, is keen to hear from employers who would be interested in taking part in the events during February and March 2003.

Called 'Make it in Scotland', the gatherings are part of a nationwide programme devised and funded by the Scottish Executive.

Businesses taking part will have an opportunity to promote the value of a career in manufacturing, while the pupils will be able to find out how the reality of 21st century  manufacturing is a world away from the old 'oily rag' stereotype.

Ian Carse, head of services with Careers Scotland in the Highlands and Islands, said the events would provide an opportunity for young people and manufacturers alike.

"For some years now, manufacturing has had a bit of an image problem with young people, many of whom prefer to set their sights on something they see as more glamorous," said Ian.

"The reality, however, is that the sector now covers a very wide and exciting range of jobs, from computer hardware and software to food and drink, medical diagnostics, renewable energy and other advanced technologies.

"Once pupils discover that opportunities in these kinds of cutting edge industries are available here in the Highlands and Islands, they begin to see manufacturing in a whole new light.

"It's vital for Scotland's future economic wellbeing that many of our best and brightest young people can be attracted to these jobs and see the huge potential there is to develop a rich and rewarding career in manufacturing.

"I do hope that as many local employers as possible will take up this opportunity to meet and enthuse the young people who could be their employees in just a few years."

The biggest Make it in Scotland event in the Highlands and Islands will be a five-day gathering at the Highland Conference Centre (Newton Hotel), Nairn, from Monday 3 to Friday 7 March.  More than 30 schools will be represented by around 3,200 second-year pupils.

One-day events will be held in Portree (20 February); Lochgilphead (26 February); Oban (27 February); Kirkwall (25 March), and Lerwick (26 March).

Dates in Fort William, Caithness and the Western Isles will be confirmed shortly.

Further information is available by phoning 08458 502 502, online at www.makeitinscotland.co.uk or from local Careers Scotland centres throughout the Highlands and Islands.