Museums Galleries Scotland (MGS) has launched its new internship programme, which is to give graduates the opportunity to gain sector workplace knowledge and skills.

More than 3,200 applications for the Interns Programme were received by the organisation, with the 20 successful candidates selected following a competitive process.

The internships will last for one year and will see each individual receive a £15,000 tax-free bursary and travel expenses, while providing opportunities to gain "valuable" experience.

It is hoped the MGS initiative will also help the sector to tackle sustainability issues such as skill-sharing, while offering a "broad range" of skills to the successful applicants.

MGS chief executive officer Joanne Orr said: "The sheer number of applications received to the programme from potential interns and the high levels of interest from the sector illustrates the appetite there is for a project of this type.

"We look forward to watching the development of the programme as it brings lasting and positive change for all involved."

Funding for the year-long Interns Programme has come from the Heritage Lottery Fund's Skills for the Future initiative. The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway and the National Trust for Scotland are among the host organisations.

Details: www.museumsgalleriesscotland.org.uk