CITY OF EKURHULENI GIVES JOB OPPORTUNITIES TO 1,700 LOCALS

The City of Ekurhuleni proudly welcomed over 1700 new recruits of the Ekurhuleni Presidential Employment Programme (EPEP) and the Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP) at Germiston Stadium on Monday, 18 November 2024.

Executive Mayor, Alderman Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, alongside MMC for Development Planning and Real Estate, Ald Nomadlozi Nkosi, and MMC for Corporate Shared Services, Ald Sivuyile Ngodwana, personally greeted and inducted the new recruits.

During the State of the City Address in April, Ald Xhakaza had made a commitment to absorb 3 000 locals as part of the EPEP programme. The first cohort of beneficiaries was in May and the number was just over 1 400.

“The City of Ekurhuleni remains committed to fostering growth, development, and service delivery through initiatives like the EPEP and EPWP, ensuring a positive impact on the community and the future of its workforce.

“This is a great opportunity to kickstart your careers and you should treat it as such and make sure that you get the best out it. The fact that it is a short-term contract should not make this opportunity any less valuable.

“This programme offers you the six months or one-year experience that employers often require when advertising posts. The EPEP is a great skills development opportunity,” said the city’s first citizen.

He pointes out that the EPEP is the city’s contribution to the Presidential jobs programme and the Gauteng Provincial Nasi iSpani programme.

As these individuals embark on their journey as employees of the city, they will be equipped with essential skills and knowledge to break into the world of work.

The EPWP and EPEP are key initiatives designed to address unemployment, promote social development, and provide temporary work opportunities. Together the two programmes have benefitted 7 000 locals since 2021.