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Training and Development

17 June 2026 Media Release:  ETDPSETA Cybersecurity Learners Receive Project Clarification During Hessequa Outreach

Media Release:  ETDPSETA Cybersecurity Learners Receive Project Clarification During Hessequa Outreach

17 June 2026

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), through its Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) initiative, recently participated in an outreach programme aimed at supporting learners enrolled in the Education, Training and Development (ETDP) Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) Cybersecurity Programme in the Hessequa municipal area.

The outreach took place in Slangrivier, Albertinia, and Riversdale, giving learners the opportunity to meet with project representatives and receive important updates about the programme.

The sessions were facilitated by Thembani Loliwe and Reginald Salmons, with support from the Garden Route Skills Mecca Technician Renola Abrahams, who is based at Hessequa Municipality. The outreach focused on addressing concerns raised by learners and providing clarity on various aspects of the project, particularly matters relating to learner stipends and programme implementation.

During the engagements, learners were encouraged to ask questions and raise any concerns. Representatives explained stipend payments, programme expectations, learner responsibilities, and other administrative matters to help learners better understand the programme and the opportunities available to them.

According to Thembani, the outreach is part of the project’s ongoing commitment to support learners throughout their training and maintain open communication with participants. “By engaging directly with learners, we were able to address concerns, clear up misunderstandings, and reassure them about the programme and its processes,” Loliwe said.

Thembani Loliwe engages with learners during a Q&A session of the ETDP SETA Cybersecurity Programme in Hessequa.

The ETDPSETA Cybersecurity Programme play an important role in preparing young people for careers in the growing field of cybersecurity and information technology.

By working together and supporting learners throughout the programme, initiatives like these help build skills and create opportunities for sustainable employment in the region.

To access opportunities regionally, join the Garden Route Local Government WhatsApp Opportunities Channel here: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va92oJoJpe8eiTvq3q33

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17 June 2026 Media Release: UIF Skills Development Programme reaches George

Media Release: UIF Skills Development Programme reaches George

17 June 2026

The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), in partnership with the Department of Employment and Labour and the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), has expanded its exciting Skills Development Programme to George, bringing new opportunities to unemployed residents.

According to GRDM Executive Mayor Marais Kruger, “the programme aims to empower unemployed people between the ages of 18 and 59 by providing accredited training that will improve their skills and increase their chances of finding meaningful employment”.

The programme offers 800 training opportunities through two National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 5 qualifications: Process Control Skills (350 opportunities) and Quality Management Systems (QMS) (450 opportunities).

“Participants will gain valuable workplace knowledge and practical skills that can be applied in both the public and private sectors.” Kruger added: “The training is designed to prepare them for careers in administration, operations, compliance, quality assurance, and service delivery”.

Reginald Salmons, GRDM Skills Development Coordinator, said that the programme has already been successfully launched in the Bitou, Knysna and Hessequa municipal areas, and that George will now join the initiative as a key economic hub in the Garden Route. The programme will also be rolled out in Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn and Kannaland, ensuring that unemployed residents across the district have access to these life-changing opportunities.

“Skills development remains one of the most effective tools for reducing unemployment and creating brighter futures for individuals, families, and communities. This initiative shows the shared commitment of government, municipalities, and communities to addressing unemployment and creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods. Beyond providing technical skills, the programme also aims to build confidence, unlock potential, and help participants become active contributors to the local economy,” Salmons concluded.

Participants taking part in activities at the different venues across George during the programme.

“Through strong collaboration between the Unemployment Insurance Fund, the Department of Employment and Labour, and the Garden Route District Municipality, hundreds of residents now can gain recognised qualifications and take meaningful steps towards employment and economic empowerment,” said Mayor Marais Kruger.

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03 June 2026 Media Release: Youth explore Future Careers at GRDM and MSC Shosholoza Ocean Academy Roadshow

Media Release: Youth explore Future Careers at GRDM and MSC Shosholoza Ocean Academy Roadshow in George

For immediate release
03 June 2026

Today, 3 June 2026, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) and the MSC Shosholoza Ocean Academy hosted a highly anticipated career roadshow in George. Designed to create life-changing opportunities, the event connected potential candidates with exciting vacancies for those looking to start their careers at sea with MSC Cruises.

This second public awareness session successfully hosted residents from the Garden Route in the George Civic Hall, to inform locals about these job opportunities that will continuously become available across the globe on MSC cruise ships.

A completely packed hall with eager individuals gathered for presentation that were delivered by officials from both organisations. This initiative highlights the massive variety of careers available at sea, offering exciting pathways in areas like hospitality, culinary arts, and guest services, to name a few.

Reginald Salmons, Training and Skills Development Coordinator at GRDM, as well as Coordinator of the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM) initiative, welcomed everyone to the event and explained the significance of the GRSM in creating opportunities for the youth of the Garden Route. His address specifically focused on the opportunities of the MSC cruise ships created through the GRSM.

“Through this initiative, young people are exposed to recruitment processes, required documentation, and industry standards, while also receiving career guidance and access to both local and international opportunities,” Executive Mayor of GRDM, Ald. Marais Kruger, highlighted. Referring to the success of these roadshows, Mayor Kruger further added: “Approximately 60 young people from the Garden Route district have already benefited through opportunities linked to this programme”.

Allister Joubert and Nicole Niewenhuis from the MSC Shosholoza Ocean Academy, have proudly shared their humble beginnings and journeys from when they started entry-level roles at the Shosholoza Ocean Academy and climbing the ranks within MSC Cruises. Their inspiring stories highlight incredible career growth and serve as a powerful motivation for aspiring interested candidates looking to apply and transform their futures at sea.

MMC for Corporate Services at GRDM, Cllr Nompumelelo Ndayi, delivered the vote of thanks and expressed her gratitude on behalf of GRDM to the representatives of the MSC Shosholoza for their valued partnership with the GRDM. “As a Municipality, we remain committed to supporting these initiatives. Together, we can continue to create pathways that empower our youth and contribute to a more prosperous future for the Garden Route district, ” Ndayi said.

Members of the public or prospective cruiser, specifically the youth that were unable to attend the roadshow, are invited to visit the following website or join the webinar for information on opportunities and processes to apply for vacancies in the MSC cruise ships:
Discover the World with MSC Cruises Webinar.

Career opportunities can be accessed at:
https://careers.msccruises.com/gb/en

Feature Image: Reginald Salmons (GRDM), Nicole Niewenhuis (MSC Shosholoza Ocean Academy), Ald. Marais Kruger (Executive Mayor, GRDM),  Allister Joubert (MSC Shosholoza Ocean Academy) and Dineo Ramasesane (GRDM) during the MSC Shosholoza Ocean Academy & Garden Route District Municipality Roadshow.

ENDS

Media Release: Empowering Food Handlers: Food Safety & Hygiene Training at Meals on Wheels Community Service

Media Release: Empowering Food Handlers: Food Safety & Hygiene Training at Meals on Wheels Community Service

For immediate release
21 May 2026

A Food Safety and Hygiene Training session was recently facilitated for the food handlers of Meals on Wheels Community Services (MOWCS). MOWCS serves some of the most vulnerable members of the community, including the elderly, the frail, and children. These individuals are at a higher risk of complications from foodborne illnesses. “This makes food safety not merely a regulatory requirement, but a direct expression of care and dignity for every person who receives a meal,” said Nonkosi Somwahla, Environmental Health Practitioner (EHPs) at the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM).

As a non-profit organisation involved in the preparation and serving of food, MOWCS is required to hold a valid Certificate of Acceptability (COA) and ensure that all food handlers receive adequate training in Food Safety and Hygiene.

The training was presented by GRDM’s EHPs. The aim was to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills required to handle, prepare, and serve food safely, while ensuring compliance with South African food safety legislation.

 The session covered key areas of food safety relevant to the day-to-day work of the MOWCS team, including the identification and control of food safety hazards, safe food handling practices, personal hygiene standards emphasise the importance of washing hands, and the maintenance of clean, pest-free premises. Participants engaged actively throughout the session, which was well received by all in attendance.

All attendees who participated in the Food Safety and Hygiene Training received Certificates of Attendance at the end of the session in recognition of their participation and commitment to improving food safety practices.

The training was well received, with positive feedback from Meals on Wheels leadership. The Regional Director of Meals on Wheels, Mr Jeremy Vlotman, shared the following feedback with the EHP, Nonkosi Somwahla: “Thank you for a professional and informative presentation. We have received positive feedback thus far; our next step is to ensure implementation.”

The EHP’s looks forward to supporting Meals on Wheels Community Services through this process, including follow-up visits and ongoing guidance as needed.

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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