In a landmark event aimed at bolstering employment and supporting local communities, the Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, together with Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor, Alderman Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, and Members of the Mayoral Committee, welcomed over 1700 new recruits to the Ekurhuleni Public Employment Programme (EPEP) at the Germiston Stadium. The grand induction ceremony, marked by enthusiasm and hope, signifies a renewed effort by the City of Ekurhuleni to address unemployment and create sustainable livelihoods for its residents. The newly recruited workers are set to receive essential knowledge and training to facilitate a seamless transition into their respective roles within the city’s workforce.
The EPEP initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Gauteng Provincial Government to create employment opportunities for communities that have been hardest hit by economic challenges. By empowering individuals with critical skills and meaningful employment, the program seeks to address socio-economic disparities and reduce poverty. Speaking at the event, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi underscored the importance of employment as a catalyst for community development. “This initiative is not just about jobs; it’s about restoring dignity, hope, and purpose to our people,” he stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive economy.
The recruitment drive spans various departments, ensuring a wide range of opportunities for the new hires. Among the most notable sectors represented is the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture (SRAC), which has welcomed over 80 practitioners. These practitioners will play a critical role in driving cultural, sporting, and recreational initiatives aimed at promoting wellness and social cohesion within Ekurhuleni.
Alderman Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, the Executive Mayor of Ekurhuleni, highlighted the role of the SRAC department in fostering vibrant community engagement. “Our arts, culture, and sports practitioners are instrumental in shaping a community that thrives on unity, health, and shared purpose. Through their work, we aim to bring communities together and nurture future talent,” he noted.