iafrica24.com
Related Articles
South Africa offers several initiatives to help unemployed youth and job seekers gain skills and work experience, with the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and SETA Learnerships being two of the most prominent. Both programmes aim to boost employability, but they differ significantly in structure, benefits, and long-term career impact. This guide breaks down the key differences, eligibility criteria, and application processes to help you decide which option suits your career goals in 2025.
What is EPWP?
Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
The EPWP is a government-led initiative providing temporary work opportunities to unemployed South Africans. It focuses on offering short-term employment with basic training, helping individuals earn an income while gaining work experience.
Key Features of EPWP
- Offers short-term jobs (typically 3–6 months).
- Focuses on labour-intensive work like construction, road maintenance, and cleaning projects.
- Includes minimal training, prioritizing work experience over formal education.
- Targets low-skilled individuals struggling to find formal employment.
- Implemented by government departments, municipalities, and non-profits.
EPWP Sectors
EPWP projects span four main sectors:
- Infrastructure: Road construction, maintenance, and building projects.
- Social: Home-based care, early childhood development, and community safety.
- Environment & Culture: Parks maintenance, tourism, and waste management.
- Non-State Sector: Jobs through NGOs and community-based projects.
Who Qualifies for EPWP?
- South African citizens aged 18 years or older.
- Unemployed individuals with little to no work experience.
- Those with no formal education or limited skills.
- Willingness to perform manual labour or community-based work.
EPWP Benefits
- Temporary job opportunities with a basic stipend (often minimum wage).
- Basic skills training (e.g., work and life skills).
- No educational requirements, making it accessible to all.
- Helps alleviate poverty through short-term income.
EPWP Limitations
- Short-term contracts with no job security.
- Low wages (stipends vary by project).
- Limited career growth, as it does not provide a formal qualification.
What is a SETA Learnership?
Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) Learnerships
SETA Learnerships are structured training programmes that combine classroom learning with practical work experience, leading to a formal qualification. Funded by SETAs (representing various industries), these learnerships are offered by employers to develop industry-specific skills.
Key Features of SETA Learnerships
- Fixed-term contracts (usually 12–24 months).
- Leads to a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) qualification (Level 1–8).
- Combines theoretical and workplace training.
- Aligned with specific industries like finance, engineering, or hospitality.
- Includes a stipend (higher than EPWP but not a full salary).
Types of SETA Learnerships
Learnerships cover various fields, including:
- Business Administration
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Health and Social Care
- IT and Engineering
- Agriculture and Construction
Each SETA focuses on a specific industry:
- MERSETA: Manufacturing, Engineering, and Related Services.
- HWSETA: Health and Welfare.
- FASSET: Finance and Accounting.
- AGRISETA: Agriculture.
- CATHSSETA: Tourism and Hospitality.
Who Qualifies for a SETA Learnership?
- Unemployed youth aged 18–35.
- Individuals with Grade 9–12 (Matric preferred).
- Those with some work experience but no formal qualification.
- People seeking a qualification while gaining practical experience.
SETA Learnership Benefits
- Earn a stipend while learning.
- Gain a formal NQF qualification, improving employability.
- Industry-specific work experience.
- Opportunities for further education (e.g., higher NQF levels).
- Some employers offer permanent roles after completion.
SETA Learnership Limitations
- Competitive application process (limited spots).
- Stipends are modest, not equivalent to a full salary.
- Requires commitment to complete both theoretical and practical components.
EPWP vs. SETA Learnerships: Key Differences
| Feature | EPWP | SETA Learnership |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Programme | Temporary work | Structured skills training |
| Duration | 3–6 months | 12–24 months |
| Payment | Basic stipend (low wages) | Stipend (higher than EPWP) |
| Training | Minimal training | Formal NQF qualification |
| Job Placement | No job guarantee | May lead to permanent employment |
| Requirements | No qualifications needed | Grade 9–12 (Matric preferred) |
| Industry Focus | Public works (manual labour) | Various industries (e.g., IT, healthcare) |
| Future Opportunities | Temporary experience only | Skills for long-term career growth |
Which Programme is Right for You?
Choose EPWP If:
- You need immediate income and a short-term job.
- You lack formal qualifications (no Matric required).
- You’re willing to do manual labour or community work.
- You’re seeking temporary experience while exploring better opportunities.
Choose a SETA Learnership If:
- You want a formal qualification to build a career.
- You have at least Grade 9–12 (or Matric).
- You’re interested in a specific industry (e.g., IT, finance, healthcare).
- You want to improve your employability with skills and experience.
How to Apply in 2025
Applying for EPWP
- Visit your local municipality or government department for opportunities.
- Check official government websites for EPWP job postings.
- Contact NGOs or community organizations involved in EPWP projects.
- Look out for recruitment drives in your area.
Applying for a SETA Learnership
- Explore SETA websites for opportunities (e.g., www.dhet.gov.za, www.nsfas.org.za).
- Apply directly to companies offering learnerships in your desired field.
- Register on job portals like:
- SA Youth: https://sayouth.mobi/
- Indeed, CareerJunction, or PNet.
- Network with professionals in your target industry to learn about openings.
Why Choose Either Programme?
Both EPWP and SETA Learnerships provide valuable opportunities for unemployed South Africans in 2025:
- EPWP: Offers quick access to work and income, ideal for those needing immediate support.
- SETA Learnerships: Focus on long-term career growth with formal qualifications and industry experience.
Whether you need a temporary job to get started or a structured programme to build a career, these initiatives can help you take the next step. Choose the path that aligns with your goals and start your journey in 2025! [Source: SA Youth, Department of Higher Education and Training]
I am interested in everything and I also qualify for this opportunity