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Skills Mecca

19 March 2026 Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca and ETDP SETA Launch Major Tech Training Initiative for Western Cape Youth

Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca and ETDP SETA Launch Major Tech Training Initiative for Western Cape Youth

For immediate release
19 March 2026

Garden Route District Municipality and ETDP SETA Continue Skills Training to ensure Youth are Future-ready

The Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM), a programme of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has continued its strategic collaboration with the Education Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA) to roll out 230 specialised training opportunities for youth across the Western Cape.

This initiative focuses on equipping young people with critical-future skills through two key programmes: Cyber Security Training (115 participants) and Technopreneur Training (115 participants).

The GRDM allocated 115 of these opportunities to the Hessequa area, while a further 115 are dedicated to the Overberg district. In a show of inter-district cooperation, the GRSM team will be providing direct implementation assistance to the Overberg district to the west of the region, for this rollout.

This launch follows the successful implementation of the same programme in the Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, and Bitou municipal areas in the past. By expanding into Hessequa and the Overberg district, the partnership continues to bridge the digital divide and foster economic independence among the province’s youth.

Induction and Implementation Schedule

The programme is already gaining significant momentum with high levels of engagement during the induction phase:

  • Hessequa region: Inductions took place on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, across Albertinia, Riversdale, and Heidelberg. These sessions were well-attended at all three venues.
  • Hessequa: Slangrivier: A successful induction session was kicked off on 18 March 2026, with strong representation from local youth.
  • Overberg District: Induction sessions are scheduled for the wee k of 23 March 2026, supported by the GRSM Team.

Comprehensive training for all participants is scheduled to officially commence during the first week of April 2026.

Programme Duration and Support

The training program is designed as a six-month intensive course, running from April to September 2026. To ensure participants can fully commit to their professional development, all learners enrolled in the programme will receive a monthly stipend for the duration of the training.

Through this partnership, the ETDP SETA and GRSM remain committed to transforming the Garden Route into a hub of digital excellence and entrepreneurial innovation.

Feature Image: Reginald Salmons, Training and Skills Development Coordinator at GRDM addressing the youth in Hessequa during the induction sessions.

ENDS

09 March 2026 Opportunities: 115 x Garden Route Skills Mecca Programme in Cyber Security

Opportunities: 115 x Garden Route Skills Mecca Programme in Cyber Security

Notice number: 18/2026

Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons, male or female, residing within the Hessequa Municipal area, to apply for Cyber Security training opportunities as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative. Opportunities are available in the following towns, with allocations divided equally:

115 GARDEN ROUTE SKILLS MECCA OPPORTUNITIES: SKILLS PROGRAMME IN CYBER SECURITY

Skills Programme: Cyber Security Programme

Minimum Requirements: 
• Matric / NQF Level 4 Qualification
• Mathematics 40% OR Mathematical Literacy 50%
• English as the language subject

Opportunities: x115

Areas / Towns covered:
– Witsand;
– Slangrivier;
– Heidelberg;
– Riversdale (incl. Garcia & Vermaaklikheid);
– Still Bay (incl. Melkhoutfontein);
– Albertinia;
– Gouritsmond (including Bitouville).

Stipends will be paid for the duration of the programmes and must be used for meals, accommodation and travel
costs.

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 ATTACHED:
– A copy of South African ID Document certified within last three months.
– A copy of highest educational qualifications certified within last three months.
– An updated copy of your CV that confirms previous work experience.

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Renola Abrahams at 028 713 7842  / renola@hessequa.gov.za /or Dineo Ramasesane at dineo@gardenroute.gov.za at 044 803 1447 or Lelethu Jantjie at 044 803 1456 / lelethu@gardenroute.gov.za during office hours only.

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: 13 MARCH 2026

29 January 2026 Opportunities: 60 x Garden Route Skills Mecca Opportunities

60 x GARDEN ROUTE SKILLS MECCA OPPORTUNITIES

WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING, INTERNSHIPS AND LEARNERSHIPS

The Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for Garden Route Skills Mecca Programme as listed below. Preference will be given to candidates with a qualification as categorised below. People with disabilities are encouraged to apply and those who previously formed part of these programmes are not allowed to re-apply. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35 (classified as youth).

 Programme and Entry Requirements:

Applicants will be selected based on the following sequentially prioritised criteria and the opportunities will be distributed across the Garden Route district (Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Bitou, Oudtshoorn and Kannaland):

1. Graduate Internship Programme

  • Persons with any NQF Level 6 Local or International Qualification in any field and want to do practical training.
  • Graduates with Tourism / Hospitality Qualification will be given preference.

Number of Opportunities: x35
Stipend: R6 000 p/m

2. Work Integrated Learning

  • Persons with a Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College N6 qualification; only those who require practicals in order to complete their diplomas.
  • Preference will be given to those with a Tourism/ Hospitality Qualification.

Number of Opportunities: x5
Stipend: R5 500 p/m

3. Learnership

  • Grade 12 certificate with Communication at NQF Level 4; and
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF level 4.

Number of Opportunities: x20
Stipend: R5 500 p/m

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Kayakazi Klaas at 044 803 1434, or Berma Losper at 044 803 1344 during office hours only (Monday to Thursday, 7:30 – 16:30 and Friday, 7:30 – 13:30). Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within two months after the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.

Closing Date: 06 February 2026
Notice number: 3/2026

Apply here (red button, top right)

Click here to download the full advert.

17 November 2025 Media Release: GRDM Prioritises Safety and Compliance with Essential Small Plant Equipment Training for Roads Teams

Media Release: GRDM Prioritises Safety and Compliance with Essential Small Plant Equipment Training for Roads Teams

For immediate release
17 November 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is significantly investing in the safety and operational capacity of its Roads Department personnel by launching the GRDM Use and Maintain Small Plant Training Programme. This essential training is designed to ensure all relevant staff are fully compliant with Construction Regulations and proficient in operating the small plant equipment critical to daily operations.

The program’s core focus is on enhancing skills across the maintenance, reseal, and concrete sections of the Roads Department.

“Safety and competency are non-negotiable, particularly when operating machinery,” said Gert Verwey Manager Maintenance. “By standardising this training, we are not only protecting our valuable staff but also guaranteeing that we meet all regulatory requirements, enabling us to deliver better, safer, and faster service delivery on our road network.”

This critical training initiative ensures full compliance with the current Construction Regulations, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to employee safety, regulatory adherence, and the delivery of high-quality infrastructure.

The training program is essential for all workers who operate small plant equipment and is designed to mitigate operational risks while maximising efficiency across all roadwork disciplines. The comprehensive curriculum is structured around four key areas of competence:

  • Identify and Select: to correctly identify and select the appropriate small plant and equipment for specific tasks.
  • Prepare for Use: training in the essential pre-operation checks and preparation procedures necessary to ensure equipment is ready and safe.
  • Utilise Effectively: skilled and efficient utilisation of the equipment to achieve required roadwork standards.
  • Maintain Equipment: in-depth training on basic maintenance and fault-finding to ensure equipment longevity and minimal downtime.

Specific equipment covered in the hands-on and theoretical modules includes:

  • Jumping Jacks (Tampers)
  • Rollers (various types)
  • Bomags (Compactors)
  • Pedestrian Rollers
  • Grinders
  • Electrical Equipment
  • Concrete mixers and related apparatus
  • Generators

“The Head of department, John Daniels, said. “By investing in this specialised training, we are not only ensuring compliance with the Construction Regulations, but are also empowering our workforce with the skills needed to execute projects safely and to the highest professional standards. Our commitment to worker safety and the integrity of our national road network remains paramount.”

The programme will be completed by the end of November 2025, accommodating approximately 144 learners from various regional teams including Oudtshoorn, George, Ladismith and Riversdale,

The training will be facilitated by Nqobile Mkhize and Richard Fembi form the company South Africa Value Education (SAVE), ensuring expert guidance for all participants across the various sites.

This proactive approach confirms GRDM’s commitment to creating a highly skilled, legally compliant, and safe working environment for all its employees.

ENDS

17 October 2025 Media Release: GRDM hosts Graduation Ceremony for 69 Learners who successfully completed Water and Wastewater Programmes

Media Release: GRDM hosts Graduation Ceremony for 69 Learners who successfully completed Water and Wastewater Programmes

For immediate release
17 October 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), in November 2023, rolled out various projects to upskill employed participants in the field of Water and Wastewater.

A grant allocation for 84 employed learners was awarded for the region then, and today, 17 October, 69 employed learners who successfully completed the 12-month programme, graduated at a ceremony hosted by GRDM at the Conville Civic Hall in George.

These programmes include:
– Water and Wastewater treatment process operations – NQF level 2;
– Water and Wastewater Treatment Process Control – NQF level 3; and
– Water and Wastewater Treatment Process Supervision – NQF level 4.

The Water and Wastewater Treatment qualifications are designed for individuals currently working in/or aspiring to enter the water and wastewater treatment sector. These qualifications aim to recognise and develop essential skills required to operate effectively within water and wastewater treatment works. It provides learners with foundational knowledge, as well as supervisory competencies aligned with industry standards. Learners are therefore equipped with the technical and operational understanding necessary to manage water and wastewater treatment processes efficiently.

Thembani Loliwe, Strategic Services Manager at GRDM, congratulated the students and said: “Climate change has a huge impact on water as a vulnerable resource. We therefore need to protect this vulnerable resource. For this reason, you will be an asset to the region”. Loliwe also acknowledged the Local Government SETA (LGSETA) for the 1.7 million funding which they made available for the successful roll-out of this initiative through the Garden Route Skills Mecca initiative”.

In addition, Loliwe said: “This programme and your dedication has shown that you are indeed needed by the municipalities in the region”. In closing he said: “Take the opportunity, grab it with both hands and make a success of it”.

Gerhard Otto, Manager for Disaster Management at GRDM sketched the worrisome scenario of the status of water in the district. He said: ” Water is scarce – we need to conserve it and we need to have systems in place to prevent a dire situation for the area”. In addition, Otto emphasised: “We need to look at a solution that cuts across municipal boundaries”. In terms of the role of those who completed the course, he said: “Your role is to ensure that the quality of the water is of good standard. We need to conserve what we have and build our future together”. When interpreting the rainfall figures Otto further stressed that “we are not getting enough rain in the catchment that does not look good for the area – we are in for a dry Summer with little rainfall. Therefore, we need to conserve what we have”.

Aneeka Jacobs, Provincial Specialist at the LGSETA, congratulated the students with the following words: “You took the challenge, you showed up. You studied. You grew. You passed and today you wear the badge of achievement.” Describing the certificate received by all, she highlighted: “It is a key to employment, promotion, entrepreneurship, and personal pride”.

In her address, Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi, Portfolio Chairperson of Corporate Services at GRDM said: “Your achievement demonstrates what is possible when we invest in people. This project made possible through the collaboration between the GRDM, our local municipalities, and the LGSETA, reflects the spirit of the Joint District Metro Approach, working together to build capacity, unlock opportunities, and empower our workforce”.

To the facilitators, mentors, and the Skills Development Units, Ndayi said: “Thank you for your tireless efforts in guiding and supporting our learners. Your dedication ensures that training is not just a formality, but a meaningful investment in the future of local government”. Ndayi also acknowledged the LGSETA. “We extend our gratitude for believing in our region and for making these programmes possible. Partnerships like these ensure that the Garden Route continues to lead by example in capacity building and skills development.”

The implementation of these projects furthermore aims to address critical skills shortages, promote career advancement, improve job security, and enhance overall productivity within the water and wastewater sector. This initiative contributes meaningfully to broader socio-economic development across the Garden Route district.

This collaborative initiative furthermore aims to strengthen regional capacity by supporting skills development and driving the JDMA. The GRDM coordinates and facilitates these projects and implementation is done in collaboration with the Skills Development Units of the respective Local Municipalities.

ENDS 

Participants with the GRDM Management and Stakeholders during the graduation ceremony.

22 July 2025 Media Release: Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Visits Garden Route District Municipality to Discuss Skills Development

Media Release: Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Visits Garden Route District Municipality to Discuss Skills Development

For immediate release
22 July 2025

Yesterday, 21 July 2025, the National Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, visited the Offices of Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) to engage in discussions and information sharing regarding the importance of skills development in the district and initiatives that can sharpen the implementation of programmes to ensure its overall success thereof.

In welcoming Dr Gondwe, Speaker of Council, Ald. Georlene Wolmarans, noted: “Our district has placed significant emphasis on creating an enabling environment for youth development, education and work-based learning opportunities. A commitment reflected in our adoption of the Skills Mecca model,” she added.

Discussions were mainly revolving around the effectiveness of the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) within the district, matters pertaining to the National Skills Development legislation.

A thorough presentation regarding the overview of the GRSM was delivered by the Strategic Manager in the Office of the Municipal Manager, Thembani Loliwe, who is responsible for overseeing the programme since 1 July 2025.

The presentation covered topics ranging from the initiative’s inception to the number of skills development programmes created and implemented across the district to the partnerships with various stakeholders, such as the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA) and the National Skills Fund. These discussions prompted questions raised by Dr Gondwe enquiring about the collaboration between GRDM and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to ensure student success, including placement in organisations for practical skills development. In response to the question, Dr Florus Prinsloo acknowledged that work have already been put into agreements by the GRDM and certain colleges, stating that the development of task teams to ensure the finalisation of agreements hinders the processes.

Dr Gondwe also shared her interest questioning how the GRSM is implemented on local municipal level in the district, to which Mr Loliwe explained the process of Skills Mecca Technicians that are placed at each municipality. Dr Prinsloo elaborated saying that the placement of Skills Mecca Technicians is a coordinated structure, as they have to fulfil a certain role in their respective local municipalities and has a responsibility to report back through the structure in terms of skills development progress made.

Apart from raising the importance of aligning local and national efforts in strengthening skills development, improving coordination and ensuring that communities benefit from inclusive and future-fit education systems, she made an example of the issue of exclusivity. She provided examples highlighting the need to consider various aspects when formalising agreements, such as the distance youth must travel to access TVET colleges. She said: “The distance that youth have to travel from Knysna to Plett or George to access these facilities, is putting an extra financial burden on these students resulting in them dropping out and ending up in front of spaza shops”.

These discussions were the beginning of many discussions to follow, and the Deputy Minister committed to be in the centre of sharpening Skills Development within the district, stating that close relations between the GRDM and the Office of the Deputy Minister will foster growth in the field of skills development.

In closing, Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi, MMC for Corporate Services at GRDM, extended words of gratitude to Dr Gondwe for her visit to the GRDM and said: “The GRDM appreciates the commitment of your office to strengthening skills development across all levels of government and society. Regarding Dr Gondwe’s and the department’s continued collaboration with local government, Ald. Ndayi said: “It will be realising a skills development agenda that is responsive, inclusive and forward-thinking”.

GRDM Deputy Executive Mayor, Ald. Vlancio Donson, also thanked all Councillors, officials, stakeholders, and partners who participated and shared their thoughts and ideas. “By working together, we can build skills and create more opportunities for our people,” he concluded.

ENDS

9 May 2025 Media Release: Fruitful Pre-Indaba Discussions lay the groundwork for Skills Development Indaba later this year in Uniondale

Media Release: Fruitful Pre-Indaba Discussions lay the groundwork for Skills Development Indaba later this year in Uniondale

9 May 2025

Local skills development providers from the Garden Route District recently gathered for the George/Garden Route Skills Uniondale Pre-Indaba, hosted by the George Municipality in conjunction with Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM).  This engagement provided a platform for local representatives from the business chambers, TVET colleges, and various departments involved in skills development.

The well-attended event took place in Uniondale and was chaired by Luvo Bomvana, the Local Economic Development (LED) Manager of George Municipality.  Bomvana stated that the purpose of the meeting was to discuss the Skills Mecca Programme and how it fits in to the town of Uniondale. There were also engagements with community leaders and the local business community about the skills development potential of Uniondale and key initiatives.

George Municipality’s Councillor Jarques Esau who officially opened the event, also extended his special appreciation to the George Municipality’s LED Unit and the Garden Route District Municipality’s Skills Mecca for bringing skills development opportunities to Uniondale. He reiterated that youth unemployment is very high in the area. Uniondale currently faces various skills shortages, particularly in the fields of Occupational Qualifications and urgently needs Read Seal Artisans in bricklaying, welding, furniture making, motor mechanics, and many more.

This was followed by a presentation from Reginald Salmons, the GRDM Coordinator of Skills Development, who provided an informative overview of the Garden Route Skills Mecca journey and the various opportunities available. Following the presentation, stakeholders provided valuable input.

It was agreed that a two-day Summit and Career Festival would be organised in June 2025, with various stakeholders and SETAs in attendance to inform and uplift the youth of Uniondale and Haarlem.  Also that the LED Manager of George Municipality will communicate the date to all role players and stakeholder and will work closely with the Garde Route Skills Mecca Team to coordinate the Summit and Carrer Festival.

The successful event will pave the way for the official Skills Indaba for Uniondale and Haarlem, bringing together a broad spectrum of key role players.

Featured image and images above: Stakeholders participating in the Pre-Indaba discussion session in Uniondale.

-END-

06 May 2025 Public Notice: Register on the Garden Route Skills Mecca Unemployment Database

Public Notice: Register on the Garden Route Skills Mecca Unemployment Database

6 May 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to register themselves on the Garden Route Skills Mecca Unemployment Database.

WHY REGISTER?
By registering, you will:

  • Be included in a central database used to match job seekers with opportunities.
  • Be considered for skills development programs and employment initiatives.
  • Receive communication about relevant training and development projects.

HOW TO REGISTER:
1. Visit: https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/.
2. Click the red button labelled “Unemployment Solutions”.
3. Select “Create Account”.
4. Go to “Your Profile” and choose “Create Your Unemployment Profile”.
5. Fill in all required information.
6. Upload the following documents:
– Your CV;
– A certified copy of your ID; and
– Certified qualifications

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Ms Khanyisa Madolo at 044 803 1456 or Mrs Nolwando Sambokwe at 044 803 1345 during office hours only. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Should candidates not be contacted within one month of the closing date, they must consider their application as
unsuccessful.

Click here to download the Official Advert.

Closing date: 30 June 2025
Notice number: 41/2025

06 May 2025 Media Release: Strengthening Our Partnership for Youth Empowerment in 2025

Media Release on behalf of Bighearts Africa: Strengthening Our Partnership for Youth Empowerment in 2025

6 May 2025

Reflecting on our successful collaboration in 2023 and 2024, Bighearts Africa is proud of the impact made through the YES Program in various departments of the Garden Routhe District Municipality (GRDM). Successful placements were made in the EPWP, IDP, Traffic, IT, Waste Management, Tourism, and Records departments. With the support of the GRDM, over thirty young individuals gained valuable work experience, setting the stage for a brighter future.

At Bighearts Africa, we believe in the power of opportunity and mentorship to uplift youth and transform communities. Our goal is a future where every young person gains essential work experience and skills.

This success wouldn’t have been possible without Christine de Wet, our dedicated host liaison. A strong host liaison ensures a smooth transition into the workplace. Christine represents everything we value – nurturing connections, fostering collaboration, and offering unwavering support to both youth and hosts. Her leadership has been key in creating lasting opportunities for young people.

As we look ahead to 2025, we are eager to continue and expand our partnership with the GRDM, further strengthening our shared commitment to youth empowerment, skills development, and local socio-economic growth.

Our vision for the coming year includes:

  • Enhanced Training & Mentorship: Provide structured, quality mentorship to improve job retention and career growth.
  • Workforce Development: Offer tailored skills development that aligns with local needs and supports community growth.
  • Sustainable Employment Pathways: Strengthen connections between youth and employers to foster long-term employment.

Let’s build on the momentum of 2024 and create even greater opportunities for young people in the Garden Route District.

Olivia Goosen: Finding Confidence, Purpose and a Path Forward

Since joining the YES Youth Program, Olivia Goosen has embraced every opportunity to grow. She began working in the Solid Waste section of Knysna Municipality, doing data capturing, and is now assisting in the Traffic department with administrative tasks and handling phone calls. This shift not only broadened her experience but helped her develop practical skills she’ll use for life.

Through her work, Olivia has learned how to respond to emails professionally, communicate with the public about traffic enquiries, and capture data more efficiently in Excel. Her supervisors, Natalie Salmons and Randall Bower, were incredibly supportive and approachable, guiding her with patience and care. “They were always there to assist when I needed help,” she says.

Before the program, Olivia faced the emotional weight of repeated college rejections due to funding issues, which left her feeling stuck. But instead of giving up, she found purpose in her work. “The program made me realise I can do anything I put my mind to,” she says. “I used to be shy and wanted to be in my own corner, but now I’m not afraid to take the lead when it comes to getting something done.”

Olivia is now supporting both her household and extended family with groceries and electricity. Her next goal is to study administrative management—and you just know she’s going to make it happen.

Jay-dene Botha: From Listless Days to a Life with Purpose

Before joining the YES Youth Program Jay-dene’s days had felt long and empty. “I spent most of my time at home, not really doing anything,” she recalls. “I didn’t have a sense of purpose.” That all changed when she began working in the Property Section at the Garden Route District Municipality.

What started as a chance to gain experience, quickly became something more meaningful. Under the guidance of a supervisor whom she describes as “an exceptional role model”. Jay-dene began to see what’s possible when you take pride in your work. “She handles difficult situations with grace and delivers excellent results. Watching her has really motivated me to push myself,” Jay-dene says of her mentor.

Today, she walks into work with confidence and goes home with a sense of pride. The relief of no longer being idle has been matched by the joy of being able to support her mother, who was once the sole breadwinner in their home. “Now I help pay the bills,” she says. “It feels good knowing I’m making things easier for her.”

Jay-dene is a star. She’s grabbed opportunity with both hands and hasn’t forgotten to show up for the people who’ve always shown up for her.

Lutho Kemele: Dreams for the Future, Revived!

Although he already had a Diploma in Business Management, Lutho Kemele couldn’t seem to find any opportunities to utilise his qualifications.  “I didn’t know what to do or how to advance in my career,” he says. “This program gave me a new outlook on life.”

Placed at the Mossel Bay Municipality, Lutho quickly got stuck in, doing business licensing, data capturing, and more. “It’s been great,” he says. “I did a lot and learned a lot.” He credits much of this growth to the people around him. Mentors like Lukhanyo, Mabatho and Ntombifuthi not only showed him the ropes, but helped him believe in his own potential. “I’ve learned many valuable things that I’ll implement in my life going forward.”

Lutho has big dreams, seeing himself owning properties and building his own business. He’s already witnessing change right at home. “We managed to buy a few new things for the house,” he says, “and I even saved some money for my own needs.”

Sometimes a little belief, good people, and an open door at just the right time is all it takes to start dreaming again!

Angelo Manho: A Voice for His Community

Angelo Manho, now working in the Power Station Department at the George municipal buildings, joined the YES Youth Program at a time when hope felt distant. Despite applying for many jobs, he struggled to find work—often turned away simply because he hadn’t yet obtained a driver’s license.

Since joining the program, Angelo has not only gained practical workplace experience but also a deeper understanding of the issues facing his community. “The work has taught me a lot,” he shares, “especially about what people are struggling with most, and how we as workers can help improve things for them.”

With the support of mentors like Stephan Blok, Angelo has learned valuable professional skills and developed strong work ethics. Now, he’s also able to support his family in meaningful ways. “I can give a portion of my money to my parents each month, and I also help my mom buy things like cleaning products for the house.”

Angelo’s journey is a reminder that with the right support, young people can rise above their circumstances, find purpose—and bring home the Handy Andy, too.

Featured Image Caption: All role-players involved in the successful Bighearts Africa YES Programme, pictured with Christine de Wet (Host Liaison) and the GRDM team led by former Executive Manager, Trix Holtzhausen.

-END-

10 April 2025 NQF Level 4, Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner (97542) – 100 Training Opportunities for Unemployed

Health and Welfare SETA Training Opportunities 

Programme: NQF Level 4, Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner (97542) x 100

Another Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative!

The Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons currently residing within the Garden Route district municipal area, to apply for training opportunities within the Local Government sphere for a qualification as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative. Preference will be given to persons with disabilities. Applicants should be between the ages of 18 and 60.

Opportunities are currently available within the following municipal areas within the Garden Route district: George x 15, Mossel Bay x 15, Knysna x 14, Ladismith x 14, Bitou x 14, Hessequa x 14 and Oudtshoorn x 14.

Apply here:

Applicants must apply using the GRDM online system called Unemployed Solutions (red button) found at:               https://skillsmecca.gardenroute.gov.za/.

Programme and Entry Requirements:

Applications need to have the following entry requirements:

  • NQF Level 3 qualification, equivalent to Grade 11

Exit Level Outcomes

  • Plan and prepare broad-phase learning environment and stimulating activities that meet the holistic needs of all children in centre-based or non-centre-based settings.
  • Facilitate and mediate all aspects of the daily programme in a centre-based or non-centre based setting.
  • Observe, assess and record each child’s progress according to the age and stage.
  • Compile a report of each child’s progress.
  • Maintain and promote the well-being, health, nutrition, safety and protection of children.

Please note that no stipends will be paid for this training.

THE GARDEN ROUTE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY WILL ONLY CONSIDER APPLICATIONS COMPLETED IN FULL AND IF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS HAVE BEEN UPLOADED (NB: The system only recognises PDF format documents):

  • A copy of a South African ID Document certified within the last six months.
  • A copy of your highest educational qualifications certified within the last six months.
  • An updated copy of your CV.

For any enquiries, do not hesitate to contact Reginald Salmons at 044 803 1363, Ms Dineo Ramasesane at 044 803 1447 or Mrs Nolwando Sambokwe at 044 803 1345, during office hours only. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Should candidates not be contacted within one month of the closing date, they must consider their application as unsuccessful.

Download the notice here:

Join the Garden Route WhatsApp Channel for Skills, Jobs and Tenders, by clicking here with your phone: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va92oJoJpe8eiTvq3q33

Closing date: 17 April 2025     
Notice number: 35/2025