EPWP Community information sessions in Central Karoo

The Department of Infrastructure (DOI) hosted a series of Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) community information sessions in Beaufort West, Murraysburg, Nelspoort and Merweville from 19 to 20 February 2025. A separate event for individuals and small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) who are interested contractor development event took place at Rustdene Community Hall on 20 February 2025. These initiatives formed part of DOI’s build-up to the State of the Province Address (SOPA) taking place in Beaufort West on 26 February 2025.

At the information session events, participants found out more about EPWP work opportunities available to people residing in the Central Karoo.

“The Department invited work seekers living in the Central Karoo District to attend one of four information sessions on short-term EPWP training opportunities in the fields of waste management, and roadworks and building maintenance. These sessions provided a platform for work-seekers to enquire about the programme, and to assist attendees with sayouth.mobi online registration. The Department aims to steadily roll out similar information sessions in other parts of the Western Cape,” said Adv. Chantal Smith, DOI Head of Department.

Individuals and small businesses interested in contractor development who attended the event at Rustdene Community Hall were invited to participate in a skills survey and needs analysis process. DOI plans to use the information generated through this process to more accurately align its EPWP contractor development activities to the needs of people on the ground.

Provincial Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers said, “The Western Cape Government is committed to enable a growing economy that creates more job opportunities for the people of the province. Initiatives such as the EPWP community information sessions equip and empower our residents to enter the job market and build prosperous lives.”