The Makana Local Municipality invites suitably qualified unemployed youth graduates to apply for the EPWP Youth Graduates Programme, a six (6) months fixed-term contract opportunity based in Makhanda, Alicedale and Riebeek East.
Application Closing Date: 19 January 2026
Programme Location: Makhanda, Alicedale & Riebeek East – Eastern Cape, South Africa
This programme is implemented under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) in partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, and is aimed at providing workplace exposure, skills development, and income support to young graduates.
Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | EPWP Unemployed Youth Graduates Programme |
| Employer | Makana Local Municipality |
| Directorate | Public Safety and Community Services |
| Number of Posts | 20 |
| Contract Duration | 6 Months (Fixed Term) |
| Stipend | R271,04 per day |
| Target Group | Unemployed Youth Graduates |
| Closing Date | 19 January 2026 |
Fields Available & Number of Candidates
A total of 20 EPWP Youth Graduate positions are available across the following fields:
| Field | Number of Candidates |
|---|---|
| Waste Management | 4 |
| Horticulture | 4 |
| Climate Change | 3 |
| Occupational Health and Safety | 3 |
| Human Resources Management | 2 |
| Financial Management | 2 |
| Public Administration | 2 |
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet ALL of the following requirements:
- A recognised Degree or Diploma in one of the following fields:
- Environmental Management / Environmental Science
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Financial Management
- Human Resources Management
- Public Administration
- Or an equivalent qualification
- Knowledge of environmental legislation, with a focus on local government
- Understanding of local government and its relationship with national and provincial spheres
- South African citizen with a valid South African ID
- Under the age of 35 years
- Medically fit
Selection Criteria
The programme will be implemented in line with EPWP and Employment Equity targets:
- 100% Youth
- 60% Women
- 2% Persons with Disabilities
Previously disadvantaged individuals and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Required Application Documents
All applications must include the following:
- Official Makana Municipality Application Form
- Comprehensive CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified copy of driver’s licence (where required)
- Any other relevant supporting documents
⚠️ Failure to submit the required documents will result in disqualification.
⚠️ Canvassing of Councillors or Municipal Officials will automatically disqualify your application.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted using the official application form.
👉 Click here to download the Makana Municipality Official Application Form:
www.makana.gov.za
Submission Methods
Applications may be submitted via post, hand delivery, or email:
Postal Address
The HR Manager
Makana Local Municipality
P.O. Box 176
Makhanda
6139
Hand Delivery
86 High Street
City Hall
Makhanda
Email Applications
📧 epwp.recruitment@makana.gov.za
❌ No late or faxed applications will be accepted.
Important Notes
- First preference will be given to internal and local municipal applicants who meet the inherent requirements
- Appointments will be made in line with the Makana Local Municipality Employment Equity Plan
- The Municipality reserves the right not to fill any or all of the advertised posts
Enquiries (For Clarification Only)
- Human Resources Practitioner
- Tel: 046 603 6110
Please note: Enquiries are for information only — do not submit applications via telephone.
Why This Programme Matters
From an employability perspective, this EPWP Youth Graduate Programme offers:
- Practical exposure in local government service delivery
- Experience aligned to environmental, administrative, and financial functions
- A structured entry point for graduates struggling to access the labour market
- Income support while gaining real workplace experience
This is a valuable stepping stone for young graduates seeking future opportunities in municipal, provincial, and national government.