The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) through its Innovation and Empowerment Directorate recently met with several TVET colleges at the Makhanda Training and Development Centre.

Colleges which form part of the partnership are: Ingwe TVET College; King Sabatha Dalindyebo TVET College; Lovedale TVET College; Ikhala TVET College; King Hintsa TVET College; Buffalo City TVET College; Port Elizabeth TVET College and the East Cape Midlands TVET College.

EPWP Director for Innovation and Empowerment, Mlu Mthembu said the aim of the meeting was to officially launch the partnership between EPWP and the eight Colleges, a partnership which will help students get more training and work experience.

These colleges currently offer practical courses that prepare students for employment in areas like engineering, business, construction, and more. By working with EPWP, students will now have better chances to join government-supported work projects where they can gain hands-on experience.

Mthembu said this partnership will help students put their classroom knowledge into real-world practice. “It also supports the government’s plan to reduce unemployment, especially among young people. EPWP gives work opportunities to people across South Africa and now wants to make sure more college students benefit from these chances,” he added.

At the meeting, both EPWP and the college representatives said they are excited to work together, saying that they believe this partnership will give students better job opportunities after graduation and help communities grow by developing skilled workers.

This new relationship will also support small projects in communities, helping to build roads, schools, and other public services while giving students experience.

Representative in the meeting.

Director of EPWP Innovation and Empowerment Mlu Mthembu addressing the meeting.

Representatives of various colleges participating at the partnership meeting.