DA-run City of Cape Town helps 33 EPWP beneficiaries obtain advanced diplomas in Public Administration

The City’s EPWP Transversal Support Project is the first project in the City of Cape Town where EPWP recruits can obtain NQF-accredited qualifications through their participation. Yesterday 33 participants in the project graduated with a NQF-7 qualifications in Public Administration from the University of the Western Cape (UWC) School of Government. 

The City of Cape Town continues to work to maximise the potential of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). In recent years, we have partnered with the UWC School of Government and the New Hope Training Organisation on a project where beneficiaries, recruited in line with EPWP policy, can further their education while assisting with administrative tasks in the implementation of EPWP projects throughout the City.

Yesterday, 17 April 2024, was a major landmark for this project, with 33 of the first participants in this initiative graduating from the UWC School of Government with an NQF-7 level qualification in Public Administration. This is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree. There was a 99% pass rate for this first cohort of EPWP graduates. One participant, Jason David Ross, even achieved a 75% pass rate, making them eligible to progress to post-graduate programmes. 

Through completing the advanced diploma, graduates have gained an understanding of, and an ability to interpret and critically analyse:  

• The historical, political administrative, economic and social context of governance in contemporary South Africa, as well as the regional and international influences;
• The legislative framework for governance, the principal structures and functions of government at national, provincial and local levels, and the dynamics of inter-governmental relations;
• The key issues and challenges facing the policy-making process, and the strengths and limitations of current policy processes in South Africa and the Southern African region;
• The importance of democratic accountability, social equity, ethical conduct, transparency, responsiveness and representativeness as key dimensions of the processes of political and administrative transformation in South Africa.

The perspective gained by participants in the course will stand them in good stead should they choose to further their careers in public service.   

Since the inception of the EPWP transversal support project, eight EPWP recruits have progressed into permanent employment within the City and outside organisations, and it is hoped that this number will continue to grow.

‘The success of these graduates just goes to show that there is so much unrealised potential in this country. These beneficiaries are clearly talented and capable individuals who just needed a chance to show what they can do. I am happy that the implementation of EPWP in the City of Cape Town has provided them with this chance.

‘I encourage all participants to take the knowledge they have gained and use it to make our city and our country a better place,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Alderman Grant Twigg.

What to know about EPWP registration:

1. Visit your local Subcouncil to register your name with the Jobseekers Database. Please bring a copy of your CV, your ID or a valid South African work permit, and proof of residence. 
2. It is free. The City will not ask residents to pay for work opportunities or pay to apply for a work opportunity.

For more information, contact the EPWP HelpDesk on 021 400 9406 or email epwp.help@capetown.gov.za.