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Training and Development

30 April 2026 Media Release: GRDM Advances Skills Development Agenda

GRDM Advances Skills Development Agenda

30 April 2026

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.

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

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

140 x Training Opportunities – Code C Drivers License for Unemployed Youth – Garden Route Rural Areas

Drivers License: Code C – Unemployed Youth 

140 x Training Opportunities for Unemployed Youth – Garden Route Rural Areas

Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons between ages of 18 to 40 male or female residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be trained for a Driver’s License Code C as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative.

Areas (Rural) include: Hessequa, Knysna, Bitou, Kannaland, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn and George.

HOW TO APPLY:
Applicants must register and apply using the online Unemployment Solutions (Red Button) on the Garden Route Skills Mecca website / or by browsing to this short link: https://tinyurl.com/34unespk. Alternatively, applicants may manually apply by downloading the application form here, completing it, attaching the required documents listed below, and submitting it to the Garden Route District Municipality offices within their municipal area.

Programme and Entry Requirements

  • Applicants need to have as a minimum educational qualification of Grade 11 (NQF 3) or equivalent.
  • Persons must be between ages of 18 to 40 male or female residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area.

For any enquiries, contact the following officials during office hours only:
– Mr. Reginald Salmons at 044-803 1363 /or
– Ms. Sisanda Sajini at 044 803 1450 .

Closing date: 03/10/2025

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CODE-C ADVERT

140 x Training Opportunities – Code B Drivers License for Unemployed Youth – Garden Route Rural Areas

Drivers License: Code B – Unemployed Youth 

140 x Training Opportunities for Unemployed Youth – Garden Route Rural Areas

Garden Route District Municipality invites unemployed persons between ages of 18 to 40 male or female residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be trained for a Driver’s License Code B as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative.

Areas (Rural) include: Hessequa, Knysna, Bitou, Kannaland, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn and George.

HOW TO APPLY:
Applicants must register and apply using the online Unemployment Solutions (Red Button) on the Garden Route Skills Mecca website / or by browsing to this short link: https://tinyurl.com/34unespk. Alternatively, applicants may manually apply by downloading the application form here, completing it, attaching the required documents listed below, and submitting it to the Garden Route District Municipality offices within their municipal area.

Programme and Entry Requirements

  • Applicants need to have as a minimum educational qualification of Grade 11 (NQF 3) or equivalent.
  • Persons must be between ages of 18 to 40 male or female residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area.

For any enquiries, contact the following officials during office hours only:
– Mr. Reginald Salmons at 044-803 1363 /or
– Ms. Sisanda Sajini at 044 803 1450 .

Closing date: 03/10/2025

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CODE-B ADVERT

140 x Training Opportunities – Code C Drivers License for Employed Youth – Garden Route Rural Areas

Drivers License: Code C – Employed Youth 

140 x Training Opportunities for Employed Youth earning R15,000 or less – Garden Route Rural Areas

Garden Route District Municipality invites employed persons between ages of 18 to 40, male or female, residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be trained for a Driver’s License Code C as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative.

Areas (Rural) include: Hessequa, Knysna, Bitou, Kannaland, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn and George.

HOW TO APPLY:
Applicants must register and apply using the online Unemployment Solutions (Red Button) on the Garden Route Skills Mecca website / or by browsing to this short link: https://tinyurl.com/34unespk. Alternatively, applicants may manually apply by downloading the application form here, completing it, attaching the required documents listed below, and submitting it to the Garden Route District Municipality offices within their municipal area.

Programme and Entry Requirements

  • Applicants must be between 18–40 years of age.
  • Must be currently employed and earning R15,000 or less per month.
  • Minimum educational qualification: Grade 11 (NQF 3) or equivalent.
  • Must reside within the Garden Route District Municipal area.

For any enquiries, contact the following officials during office hours only:
– Mr. Reginald Salmons at 044-803 1363 /or
– Ms. Sisanda Sajini at 044 803 1450 .

Closing date: 03/10/2025

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CODE-C ADVERT

140 x Training Opportunities – Code B Drivers License for Employed Youth – Garden Route Rural Areas

Drivers License: Code B – Employed Youth 

140 x Training Opportunities for Employed Youth earning R15,000 or less – Garden Route Rural Areas

Garden Route District Municipality invites employed persons between ages of 18 to 40, male or female, residing within the Garden Route District Municipal area, to apply for an opportunity to be trained for a Driver’s License Code B as part of a Garden Route Skills Mecca Initiative.

Areas (Rural) include: Hessequa, Knysna, Bitou, Kannaland, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn and George.

HOW TO APPLY:
Applicants must register and apply using the online Unemployment Solutions (Red Button) on the Garden Route Skills Mecca website / or by browsing to this short link: https://tinyurl.com/34unespk. Alternatively, applicants may manually apply by downloading the application form here, completing it, attaching the required documents listed below, and submitting it to the Garden Route District Municipality offices within their municipal area.

Programme and Entry Requirements

  • Applicants must be between 18–40 years of age.
  • Must be currently employed and earning R15,000 or less per month.
  • Minimum educational qualification: Grade 11 (NQF 3) or equivalent.
  • Must reside within the Garden Route District Municipal area.

For any enquiries, contact the following officials during office hours only:
– Mr. Reginald Salmons at 044-803 1363 /or
– Ms. Sisanda Sajini at 044 803 1450 .

Closing date: 03/10/2025

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CODE-B ADVERT

13 May 2025 Media Release: NSF visits GRDM to witness success of R36 million skills investment benefiting 400 people

Media Release: NSF visits GRDM to witness success of R36 million skills investment benefiting 400 people

12 May 2025

The Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Training Section received a visit from the National Skills Fund (NSF) Executive Committee from 8 to 9 May 2025.  The visit formed part of their  annual performance monitoring and oversight visits to beneficiaries. This follows the approval last year by the Director-General of the Department of Higher Education and Training, allocating R36 378 000 to the GRDM to benefit 400 beneficiaries over a period 31 month period.

During a brief ‘meet-and-greet’ session on Thursday with the NSF Executive Committee, the Municipal Manager of GRDM Monde Stratu, welcomed the team and highlighted the good working relationship that has been established since 2017. Stratu expressed his appreciation for the strong partnership between GRDM and NSF and thanked them for their continued financial contribution and support, towards skills development in the region. Following this, the NSF leadership continued to reflect and assess the progress of NSF projects in the region.

GRDM and NSF delegations during the Day 1 meet-and-greet session.

On Friday morning, the visit by the NSF continued as the GRDM Training Unit briefed the delegates on the performance of the NSF funded projects.  Ald. Ndayi  (Portfolio Councillor of the Corporates Services) thanked the NSF for the project and the positive impact of the program on the life of the beneficiaries. She motivated the learners on the program and encouraged them to remain positive and dedicated to complete it. During the same session, the NSF representatives also met with some of the Professional Cookery Learnership and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) students, who had the opportunity to share their experiences, skills gained and overall appreciation.

Following this, NSF leadership visited the African Skills Centre in Thembalethu, where they met and engaged with beneficiaries trained as professional cooks.  The final stop was at Fancourt, where they interacted with beneficiaries working and training in the hospitality industry.

Activities underway during Day 2

-END-

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-

28 February 2025 Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca Launches Tourism & Hospitality Project with Comprehensive Induction Workshops

Media Release: Garden Route Skills Mecca Launches Tourism & Hospitality Project with Comprehensive Induction Workshops

For immediate release
28 February 2025

The Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM), which forms part of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), has officially launched its new Tourism and Hospitality Project, a significant initiative funded by the National Skills Fund (NSF), with a series of comprehensive induction workshops held across the Garden Route. The sessions commenced on 24 February 2025 and today the last session is held in Hessequa at the Riversdale Civic Centre.

Areas where workshops were already conducted include Bitou, Knysna, Mossel Bay, George, Calitzdorp, Ladismith and Oudtshoorn.

A packed hall of participants in attendance at the Workshop conducted in Knysna.

These workshops, facilitated by Reginald Salmons, Coordinator for Skills Development at GRDM, marked the commencement of a valuable opportunity for Work Integrated Learners (WIL) and Cooks to acquire essential skills and to contribute to the region’s vibrant hospitality industry.

Portfolio Chairperson for Corporate Services, Ald. Nompumelelo Ndayi said: “The sessions brought together learners and host employers from local businesses, with the GRDM team playing a pivotal role in guiding the participants and providing crucial insights”.

The Induction Workshop conducted in Mossel Bay on 25 February 2025.

Each morning, participants were welcomed by a representative of the respective municipality, fostering a positive and collaborative atmosphere, followed by a detailed overview of the GRSM’s background. Salmons further emphasised the importance of the GRSM in the local community and its contribution to regional skills development.

Following an opportunity for attendees to network and engage with one another, these workshops also explored the core components of the program, including:

  • a thorough review of the learner contract of employment;
  • the Code of Conduct;
  • the roles and responsibilities of host employers; and
  • salary cut-off dates.

“Discussions are designed to ensure that all participants have a clear understanding of their obligations and expectations, promoting transparency and accountability throughout the program,” said Ndayi.

Presentations made by the GRDM and NSF teams during the Induction Workshop in Oudtshoorn.

A dedicated question and answer session was built into the programme that provided learners with a platform to address any queries or concerns, fostering open communication and ensuring clarity. The induction concluded with a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the learners for their participation.

The launch of this NSF-backed Hospitality Project represents a significant investment in the future of the Garden Route’s workforce. By providing learners with essential skills and practical experience, the project aims to enhance their employability and contribute to the continued growth of the region’s thriving hospitality sector.

According to Mayor Andrew Stroebel, the GRSM’s commitment to skills development is “evident in the comprehensive nature of the induction workshops, laying a solid foundation for the success of the project and its participants”.

“This initiative promises to empower individuals and strengthen the local hospitality industry, ensuring a brighter future for the Garden Route,” he concluded.

More Induction Workshops conducted across the district.

ENDS