OPPORTUNITIES: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TOWARDS FURTHER STUDIES 2027
Notice number: 6/17/1
Applications are invited from students currently receiving tuition at Accredited Learning Institutions and learners who are currently Grade 12 or have passed Grade 12, for financial assistance towards further studies during the 2027 academic year. The financial contribution by GRDM, is restricted to full-time study and attendance at SAQA accredited Tertiary, or TVET institutions. This is ONLY applicable to students whose parents permanently reside within the Garden Route municipal area.
Application forms are available at the GRDM main-office and satellite offices during normal office hours (Monday – Thursday 07:30 – 16:30; Friday 07:30 – 13:30). Application forms are also available on the GRDM’s website at www.gardenroute.gov.za. Applications open from the 01 September 2026. Download it here: Application Form
THE GRDM WILL ONLY CONSIDER COMPLETED APPLICATIONS AND IF THE DOCUMENTS MENTIONED BELOW HAVE BEEN INCLUDED.
A detailed Curriculum Vitae and cover letter, application form, and certified copies of the following documentation must be attached: Latest or Grade 12 results or equal qualification; latest examination results of students currently enrolled at tertiary institutions; certified copy of I.D.; affidavit of parents’ combined income and proof of residential address (municipal account).
Please forward the application form and all documents to: Records, Garden Route District Municipality, 54 York Street, P.O. Box 12, George 6530, for attention: Training and Development Section.
For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Berma Losper at 044 803 1344 or Nolwando Sambokwe on 044 803 1345 during office hours.
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.
Closing date: 31 October 2026 Click here to download the Official Advert
Media Release: Municipal Officials Strengthen Job Evaluation Skills Through Certified TASK Training
4 September 2026
Twelve municipal officials representing 12 TASK-participating municipalities in have successfully completed a certified TASK Job Evaluation Training Programme. The training was rolled out to strengthen municipal capacity and promote consistency in the implementation of the TASK Job Evaluation System. The TASK Job evaluation system is used to grade posts in municipalities and the gradings are linked to salary scales.
The training was conducted from 31 August to 2 September 2026 at the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) offices and was attended by one candidate representing each participating municipality in the Garden Route and Central Karoo districts. The programme was facilitated by Dylan Pieterse from Deloitte, who provided participants with expert guidance, practical knowledge and insights into the application of the TASK Job Evaluation System.
According to Busisiwe Klaas, Task Administrator at GRDM, the training programme was designed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge, competencies and practical skills to participate effectively in job evaluations. “It also aimed to develop a sound understanding of the TASK Job Evaluation System and its application, while promoting consistency and uniformity in job evaluation practices across municipalities,” Klaas said.
During the training, participants were reminded of the key principles, processes and requirements of the TASK Job Evaluation System. The training incorporated theoretical instruction, practical application, interactive group discussions and opportunities for participants to clarify issues relating to job evaluation.
Throughout the three-day programme, participants actively engaged in the sessions and demonstrated a willingness to apply the knowledge and skills gained in their respective municipalities. The training provides participants with formal recognition for successfully completing the programme. It also strengthens the skills of municipal officials responsible for job evaluation and helps ensure that these processes are managed effectively.
The successful completion of the programme strengthens municipal skills and capacity, while supporting the consistent and effective implementation of the TASK Job Evaluation System.
Ongoing support, refresher sessions and practical guidance was recommended by the services provider to help trained officials apply their knowledge effectively within their municipalities.
Caption: Municipal officials from municipalities across the Garden Route and Central Karoo districts who participated in the TASK Job Evaluation Training Programme held this past week.
On 29 April 2026, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), together with organised labour represented by IMATU and SAMWU, signed the GRDM Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) for the 2026/27 financial year. This annual process reflects GRDM’s ongoing commitment to addressing institutional skills gaps.
The municipality also implements a similar approach externally through the Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative in collaboration with several Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) entities, amongst others.
Management and unions will implement the new financial year’s WSP from 1 July 2026. The consultation and final consensus followed a series of engagements with various GRDM departments, during which training requirements were consolidated into a single, workable plan.
Caption: GRDM, IMATU, and SAMWU come together to sign the 2026/27 Workplace Skills Plan.
Looking ahead, the Garden Route District Training Committee resolved to enhance WSP planning cycles and strengthen transparency and accountability. Representing the unions, IMATU’s Bonisile Desha said, “Continuous monitoring and evaluation are vital in this process.
“Receiving progress reports on a bi-monthly basis will enable us, as unions, to take stock of these developments.”
He added, “We want to be transparent about the number of employees and ensure that the allocated budget is spent accordingly.” The unions further stressed the importance of ensuring that all employees requiring skills development interventions benefit, enabling them to contribute positively to the workplace.
Caption: A collaborative step forward as GRDM and labour partners align on skills development priorities for 2026/27.
GRDM Skills and Training Manager, Regional Salmons, emphasised that while skills development is mandatory for the GRDM, employee engagement is vital for the WSP to drive growth rather than just meet compliance.
Salmons noted that the annual submission of the Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) and Annual Training Report (ATR) to LGSETA by April 30th is essential, as it unlocks mandatory and discretionary funding for the municipality.
Feature image caption: GRDM strengthens its commitment to workforce development with the signing of the 2026/27 Workplace Skills Plan.
Media Release: GRDM and stakeholders roll out a Recognition of Prior LearningOccupational Firefighting Certificate
For immediate release 21 February 2025
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is pleased to announce the commencement of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Occupational Firefighting Certificate Programme. “This initiative reflects GRDM’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the skills and expertise of firefighters in the region,” said Ald. Nompumelelo Sumeia Ndayi, MMC for Corporate Services.
Information sessions with candidates from the Heidelberg and Riversdale regarding the RPL Programme.
The Occupational Certificate: Firefighting, is a national qualification that equips firefighters with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond to emergency situations. Being designed to recognise the prior learning and experience of firefighters, it will allow them to obtain the Occupational Certificate without undergoing the full training program.
The RPL programme offers several benefits to firefighters, including enhanced career prospects as it is a recognised qualification that can enhance career prospects and opportunities for advancement. It will furthermore provide firefighters with recognition of their prior learning and experience, boosting their confidence and self-esteem.
The RPL programme will be implemented in partnership with the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) and other stakeholders, including Hessequa Municipality, Kannaland Municipality, Bitou Municipality, Central Karoo District Municipality, Prins Albert Municipality, and Beaufort West Municipality. The rollout will occur in phases, with Phase 2 focusing on Candidate Self-Evaluation and the Formative Assessment Agreement.
Mayor Andrew Stroebel also added that the GRDM is committed to providing opportunities in the field of firefighting and providing necessary skills and knowledge to respond to emergency situations. “This RPL programme is an important process, aiming to improve their career prospects, by formally recognising their skills, knowledge and experience.”
Feature Image: Chief Fire Officer, Deon Stoffels (2nd from left), addressing the candidates from Hessequa during the information session.
Twenty GRDM Roads Employees successfully complete ‘Dangerous Goods’ Training
For immediate release 20 February 2025
Recently, twenty (20) Roads employees from the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) successfully attended and completed one-year Dangerous Goods training. This initiative was aimed at equipping employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle, transport, and store hazardous materials safely and in compliance with legal and organisational regulations.
“I am incredibly proud of our Roads employees for successfully completing the rigorous ‘Dangerous Goods’ training. Their dedication to enhancing their skills and knowledge demonstrates a strong commitment to not only their own safety but also the safety of our communities,” said GRDM Mayor Andrew Stroebel
All participants in the programme are stationed within the Garden Route district, playing a crucial role in ensuring road safety and the effective management of hazardous substances. The training was structured to provide both theoretical and practical knowledge, enabling employees to navigate the complexities of transporting dangerous goods with confidence and competence.
The Dangerous Goods Training is essential in workplaces that involve the movement of potentially harmful materials. It enhances workers’ ability to identify risks, apply best practices, and ensure adherence to safety standards when loading, conveying, and off-loading dangerous goods.
Key Topics Covered:
During the training, employees engaged in in-depth discussions and practical exercises focused on the following key aspects:
Compliance with Legal Documentation Requirements: Understanding the necessary legal documentation and regulatory obligations associated with transporting hazardous materials.
Application of Safety and Standard Operating Procedures: Ensuring the correct protocols are followed during the loading and off-loading of dangerous goods to minimize risks.
Incident Response Procedures: Learning how to effectively respond to and manage incidents involving hazardous materials to prevent harm to personnel, the public, and the environment.
Adherence to SANS 10231 Requirements: Understanding and complying with the South African National Standard (SANS) 10231 regarding safe behaviour and operational conduct while transporting dangerous goods.
With these critical topics covered, participants are now well-equipped to apply their newfound expertise in real workplace scenarios. They can confidently and safely transport dangerous goods in line with legal, safety, and industry standards, while also being prepared to manage potential incidents effectively.
Upon successful completion of the programme, all learners were assessed and declared competent. These certifications and permits affirm their ability to handle dangerous goods responsibly and in full compliance with regulations.
The GRDM commends the dedication of its Roads employees in completing this vital training. Their commitment to safety and compliance ensures that dangerous goods are managed with the highest level of professionalism, ultimately contributing to a safer working and public environment.
Feature image: Facilitator of the Dangerous Goods Training programme, Elton Olivier from Victoria Driving School (right), with the GRDM Roads employees who successfully completed the Dangerous Goods training.
Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca initiative invests millions of Rands in Skills Development opportunities in the Garden Route
For immediate release 02 December 2024
The Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM), an initiative of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), has invested significantly in training and skills development programs across the district’s local municipal areas over the past three years.
Earlier this year, a group of participants from across the district with representatives of GRDM’s EPWP Unit, BIG Hearts and Oudtshoorn Municipality after the signing of their contracts to gain workplace experience at the GRDM, through the GRSM initiative.
Through these programmes, the GRSM continuously aims to collaborate, cooperate and integrate skills development activities across all GRSM roleplayers, ever-increasing its numbers of partnerships in support of Skills Development, as well as continue expanding its network of industry-based occupationally based programmes designed to meet the region’s needs.
The skills development programs implemented through GRSM include diverse fields such as cellphone repairs, construction, and more. These efforts highlight a steady increase in skills development initiatives within the Garden Route, contributing to noticeable growth in the region.
Since 2022, nearly R124.4 million has been invested across local municipalities, creating opportunities for more than 2191 individuals in the Garden Route district. An additional R114.26 million worth of projects are currently in the implementation phase. These efforts, made possible by the GRSM initiative, have included training in areas such as Training for Skills Mecca Technicians through the Expanded Public Works Programme, Project Management, Tourism and Hospitality, Small & Media Enterprise training and business support, Digital skills, Water and Sanitation, Firefighting and artisan development programmes such as plumbing, electrician training to name a few.
The breakdown of investment and programme rollout in local municipal areas includes:
Bitou: Programmes implemented in the area amounts to more than R12 million.
Knysna: An investment of nearly R35.5 million was made.
George: Approximately R23 million was invested in skills and training initiatives in the area.
Mossel Bay: Almost R13 million was allocated for the implementation of programmes.
Oudtshoorn: Received close to R14 million for the roll-out programmes.
Hessequa: Benefited from R8 million for skills development and training programmes.
Kannaland: Skills development investment amounted to almost R5.9 million.
Additionally, the GRSM furthermore invested approximately R5.3 million in the developing interns placed at various departments of the GRDM. These interns are placed at various departments of the municipality.
More Skills Development Programmes are in the pipeline to be implemented which include: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Skills, Maritime Training, Rural Development, cell phone repairs training etc. The establishment of training academies are also in the process to the completed and established.
The success of the GRSM can be attributed to key milestones achieved since its inception, including:
The hosting of three Skills Summits in various areas within the district.
Local skills Indabas also took place across all local municipal areas during this period.
A website was furthermore developed that serves as central information hub for training providers and stakeholders;
The municipality established an online recruitment system for all projects and programmes.
R36 million received from the National Skills Fund to the GRSM.
Skills Mecca technicians placed at each municipality to coordinate activities of the GRSM at local level thus ensuring a more coordinated approach that contributes towards the smooth operations of the broader GRSM initiative.
Although the GRSM continues to create possibilities for both employed and unemployed persons within the Garden Route to drive its vision which is the “the preferred destination for developing and honing specific skills and expertise that leads to employability,” it cannot exist without valued partnerships that involves local municipalities, the various SETAs, training providers and the private sector.
Feature Image: Fire Services participants who graduated after completing an Occupational Firefighting training programme through the GRSM, with their families at the event earlier this year.
Opportunities: International Scholarship Opportunity in China for Unemployed Beneficiaries 2024/2025
Opening Date of Funding Window: 14 November 2024 Closing Date of Funding Window: 14 December 2024
Are you a South African matric graduate seeking international study opportunities? The Chinese Culture and International Education Exchange Centre (CCIEEC), in partnership with the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) and the Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA), invites matric graduates who completed matric prior to 2024 to apply for an exciting opportunity to study towards a Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in China.
This initiative aligns with the LGSETA and INSETA Annual Performance Plan targets, contributing to South African youth skills development and employability.
Who can apply?
To qualify for this incredible opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:
South African citizens.
Must have completed matric prior to 2024 (no restrictions on the number of years post-matric).
Unemployed at the time of application.
Aged 18 to 25 years.
Willingness to commit to the full programme duration in China.
Ability to adapt to a new cultural and academic environment.
No criminal record.
Medically fit for international travel (HIV, TB and Syphilis negative) according to the rules of the People’s
Republic of China. A medical exam will take place before departure to China.
Media Release: GRDM bids farewell to dedicated Roads employee, Daniel Bruiners
For immediate release 31 October 2024
This week, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Roads Department will bid farewell to a cherished colleague, Daniel Bruiners, with a special memorial service celebrating his life on Friday, 1 November 2024.
Daniel, who sadly passed away on Friday, 25 October 2024, at the age of 55, dedicated 20 years of service to the GRDM. Appointed on 1 September 2004, he worked as a member of the Herold Maintenance Team in his hometown of Herold – the place where he was born, raised, and educated.
Daniel’s passing has left an emptiness among his colleagues. Team members remember him as a quiet, diligent worker known for his precision and neatness in every task. Gert Verwey, Deputy Manager of GRDM Roads, remarked: “Daniel’s meticulous work ethic and the significant contributions he made to GRDM Roads are deeply felt by our team. His absence is already felt profoundly.”
Born as the youngest of seven brothers, Daniel is survived by his siblings, his three children – one daughter and two sons – and a niece with whom he shared his home. The GRDM extends its heartfelt condolences to Daniel’s family, friends, and colleagues as they mourn his unexpected loss.
The memorial service will be held at the GRDM Council Chambers. Family, colleagues, friends, and community members are invited to join virtually through the municipality’s YouTube Channel: https://tinyurl.com/msbtcr3x.
Rest in Peace, Daniel
Your dedication and service to the people of the Garden Route will be remembered.
Work Experience Placement Opportunities: Tourism and/or Hospitality – another Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be placed at a Tourism and/or Hospitality related organisation for an 18-month work experience opportunity as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative. Preference will be given to persons with disabilities.
Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35. Young people from rural areas are encouraged to apply. Opportunities are currently available in all areas of the garden route district.
Programme and Entry Requirements
This is an 18-month work experience placement programme at Tourism / Hospitality related organisation in the Garden Route.
Applicants will be selected based on the following sequentially prioritised criteria:
• 1st Criteria: Persons with a NATED N6 Tourism / Hospitality qualification that need 18-months work experience for a National Diploma.
• 2nd Criteria: Persons with any Local or International Tourism / Hospitality qualification that have had no work experience.
• 3rd Criteria: Persons with any Local or International Tourism / Hospitality qualification that have had less than six months work experience.
In addition, the GRDM, subject to receiving enough applications and available workplaces, will also attempt to allocate applicants evenly across all Municipal Wards in the District.
Scope of Work and Duties
• This will be determined by the Tourism / Hospitality organisation but could include administration, reception, room services, bar services, restaurant services, food services, customer services or any other typical work within tourism and hospitality.
• All shortlisted candidates will be required to complete an interview with the host employer.
Stipends will be paid for 18-months by GRDM. Stipends must be used for meals, accommodation and travel costs.
The Programme also does not include uniforms, PPE or any equipment unless supplied voluntarily by the host employer. Applicants must apply using the GRDM online system called Unemployed Solutions (red button) found at https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/.
THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED:
• A copy of a South African ID Document certified within the last six months.
• A copy of highest educational qualifications certified within the last six months.
• An affidavit certified within last six months that confirms previous work experience, including any Learnerships.
• A criminal record clearance report from the SA Police Service.
For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Mr Reginald Salmons at 044-803 1363, or Ms. Kayakazi Klaas 044 803 1434 during office hours (Monday to Thursday between 07:30 and 16:30 and Friday between 07:30 and 13:30) only. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted 2 months after the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.
OPPORTUNITIES: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TOWARDS FURTHER STUDIES 2025
Applications are invited from students currently receiving tuition at Accredited Learning Institutions and learners who are currently Grade 12 or have passed Grade 12, for financial assistance towards further studies during the 2025 academic year. The financial contribution by GRDM, is restricted to full-time study and attendance at SAQA accredited Tertiary, or TVET institutions. This is ONLY applicable to students whose parents permanently reside within the Garden Route municipal area.
Application forms are available at the GRDM and satellite offices during normal office hours (Monday – Thursday 07:30 – 16:30; Friday 07:30 – 13:30). Application forms are also available from the GRDM’s website.
THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER COMPLETED APPLICATIONS AND IF THE DOCUMENTS MENTIONED BELOW HAVE BEEN INCLUDED.
A detailed Curriculum Vitae and cover letter, application form, and certified copies of the following documentation must be attached: Latest or Grade 12 results or equal qualification; latest examination results of students currently enrolled at tertiary institutions; certified copy of I.D.; affidavit of parents’ combined income and proof of residential address (municipal account).
Please forward the application form and all documents to: Records, Garden Route District Municipality, 54 York Street, P.O. Box 12, George 6530, for attention: Training and Development Section.
For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Mr Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Mrs Alvera Josephs at 044 803 1410 or Mrs Nolwando Sambokwe on 044 803 1345 during office
hours.
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.
