Makana Local Municipality is inviting suitably qualified unemployed youth graduates to apply for the EPWP Youth Graduates Programme for 2026. This six-month fixed-term opportunity is aimed at young graduates who are seeking practical workplace exposure within local government while gaining valuable experience and income support.
The programme is implemented under the Expanded Public Works Programme in partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. Successful candidates will be placed within the Public Safety and Community Services Directorate and will be based in Makhanda, Alicedale, or Riebeek East in the Eastern Cape.
This initiative is designed to support skills development, improve employability, and provide meaningful work experience to graduates who are struggling to access entry-level opportunities in the public sector.
Programme Overview
The EPWP Youth Graduates Programme is offered by Makana Local Municipality and is targeted at unemployed youth graduates. A total of 20 positions are available on a six-month fixed-term contract. Participants will receive a daily stipend of R271,04 while gaining hands-on experience within municipal operations.
Fields Available and Number of Positions
The programme offers placements across several focus areas within the municipality. Four positions are available in Waste Management, four in Horticulture, three in Climate Change, and three in Occupational Health and Safety. Human Resources Management has two available positions, Financial Management has two positions, and Public Administration has two positions.
These placements are intended to expose graduates to real-world municipal functions aligned with their fields of study.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet all the minimum requirements to be considered for the programme. Candidates must hold a recognised Degree or Diploma in Environmental Management or Environmental Science, Occupational Health and Safety, Financial Management, Human Resources Management, Public Administration, or an equivalent qualification.
Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of environmental legislation, particularly within a local government context, and have an understanding of how local government operates in relation to national and provincial spheres. Only South African citizens with a valid South African ID will be considered. Applicants must be under the age of 35, medically fit, and currently unemployed.
Selection Criteria
The programme will be implemented in line with EPWP guidelines and the Municipality’s Employment Equity targets. The programme is targeted entirely at youth, with a focus on 60 percent women and 2 percent persons with disabilities. Previously disadvantaged individuals and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Required Application Documents
All applications must be submitted with the required documentation. Applicants must include the official Makana Municipality application form, a comprehensive CV, a certified copy of a South African ID, and certified copies of qualifications. A certified copy of a driver’s licence must be included where required, along with any other relevant supporting documents.
Applications submitted without the required documentation will not be considered. Canvassing of Councillors or Municipal Officials will result in automatic disqualification.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted using the official Makana Local Municipality application form. The form can be downloaded from the Makana Municipality website at www.makana.gov.za.
Completed applications may be submitted by post, hand delivery, or email.
Submission Details
Postal applications must be addressed to the Human Resources Manager at Makana Local Municipality, P.O. Box 176, Makhanda, 6139.
Hand-delivered applications must be submitted at 86 High Street, City Hall, Makhanda.
Email applications must be sent to epwp.recruitment@makana.gov.za.
Late applications or applications submitted by fax will not be accepted.
Important Notes
Preference will be given to internal applicants and local municipal residents who meet the inherent requirements of the position. Appointments will be made in accordance with the Makana Local Municipality Employment Equity Plan. The Municipality reserves the right not to fill any or all of the advertised posts.
Enquiries may be directed to the Human Resources Practitioner at 046 603 6110. Enquiries are for clarification purposes only and applications must not be submitted telephonically.
Why This Programme Is Important
The EPWP Youth Graduate Programme provides young graduates with an opportunity to gain practical experience within local government service delivery. Participants benefit from exposure to environmental, administrative, and financial functions while receiving income support during the contract period.
This programme serves as a critical entry point for graduates who are seeking to build experience and improve their chances of securing future employment within municipal, provincial, or national government structures.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 19 January 2026.
Makana Local Municipality is offering EPWP Youth Graduate Internship opportunities for unemployed youth in the Eastern Cape for 2026, providing practical experience and income support.
