The Gauteng Department of Social Development’s Extended Public Works Programme (EPWP) is proving to be a lifeline for many young people across the province, equipping them with valuable skills, creating job opportunities and providing income support.
As a key government initiative, the programme not only helps alleviate poverty but also fosters economic upliftment and long-term career development. This impact was evident during a joint oversight visit conducted by the Gauteng Department of Social Development and the Department of Public Works at Adonai Fellowship Community Care Centre in Walkerville on Wednesday.
The purpose of the visit was to evaluate the programme’s effectiveness and assess how it continues to change lives in communities. According to Seipati Motlabane, a Social Work Manager for EPWP, the programme plays an instrumental role in empowering youth by providing access to work and training opportunities that equip them with skills and experience for future employment.
“EPWP is not just a temporary solution but a steppingstone for young people to gain meaningful work experience and transition into formal employment. It remains a vital programme in addressing unemployment, reducing poverty and accelerating service delivery in our communities,” said Motlabane.
Adonai Fellowship Community Care Centre is one of the many organizations benefiting from EPWP. Project Manager Diana Nyazuza highlighted how the programme has positively impacted children and unemployed youth in Walkerville and surrounding areas.
“Currently, 131 children are directly benefiting from the EPWP programme, and with additional support from local businesses, we have been able to extend our reach to 245 children. We are grateful for the funding from the Gauteng Department of Social Development, as it allows us to change lives and uplift unemployed youth, ” said Nyazuza.
Nyazuza, a former EPWP participant herself, expressed her deep appreciation for the initiative, emphasizing that many young people who have passed through the programme are now in formal employment, studying at universities or pursuing careers as teachers and professionals.
“Since our establishment in 2004 and our funding from 2006, we have seen firsthand how EPWP transforms lives. Many of our former beneficiaries have secured stable jobs, proving that this programme is a real game-changer,” she shared.
Mpho Sibiya from the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure commended Adonai Fellowship Community Care Centre for its dedication and professionalism. She emphasized that the organization has demonstrated effective use of resources, ensuring that funds allocated are directly benefiting the community.
Sibiya said: “We are pleased with the positive results and the level of professionalism displayed by Adonai Fellowship. This gives us confidence that EPWP is making a real impact and will continue to support families in impoverished townships.”
As EPWP continues to expand its reach, it stands as a beacon of hope for many young South Africans, proving that with the right opportunities and support, lives can be transformed for the better.
