Gauteng Youth Show Up in Numbers for #NasiiSpani

Gauteng youth flocked to apply for the 2025/27 cohort of the NasiiSpani, National Youth Service (NYS) Programme. Many young people expressed their eagerness to gain valuable skills and contribute to Government through this programme.

The Chief Director, Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), Rae Davids, stated that the overwhelming response from the youth demonstrates the high demand for job opportunities through this skills development initiative. She said, “Our unemployment rate in Gauteng increased by 0,4% in the last quarter and our obligation as Government is to create public employment programmes that increase the capability of our youth to access the labour market. The NasiiSpani NYS programme provides work experience, on the job training and formal training programmes for participants. Our intake of 2500 youth will significantly increase the potential for these participants to acquire permanent work after the two years of completing the programme. We look forward to engaging with these young people and influencing the trajectory of their lives.”

Mathapelo Mokoena, an applicant from West Rand said, “I applied for an Administration post and the process was not difficult. We were assisted on how to fill the Z83 application form and attaching supporting documents. I am eager for this opportunity and would like to make a meaningful contribution in Government as a young person”. Another applicant, Neo Seleke from Johannesburg Central said that although the application ques were long, officials assisted them individually to ensure that their applications were correctly completed. Neo added, “I came here because I honestly need this opportunity. I only have a matric certificate.? My plan is use the stipend to fund my studies for a part-time certificate in Human Resource Administration. This programme is my last hope”.

The NYS work opportunities available for the youth includes technical trade positions suchas electrical, solar installation, plumbing, carpentry, boiler assistant, mechanical, welding and painting. Administration positions include data capturing, I.T, human resource management, procurement, asset management, OHS, communications as well as general positions in cleaning, gardening, landscaping, laundry and food service aid.

In the coming weeks, the Chief Directorate, EPWP will process the thousands of applications received. Once shortlisted, applicants will be contacted for further assessments and placements in the relevant NYS positions.

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