South Africa’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) continues to play a vital role in addressing youth unemployment by providing structured work opportunities within government. One of the most important opportunities opening for graduates in 2026 is the EPWP 2026 Graduates Programme at Makana Local Municipality.
This six-month fixed-term programme is specifically designed for unemployed graduates under the age of 35 who are seeking real workplace exposure, professional skills development, and practical experience within local government. For many young graduates, this programme serves as a critical bridge between qualification and long-term employment.
Applications close on 19 January 2026, and late submissions will not be accepted.
What Is the EPWP 2026 Graduates Programme?
The EPWP Unemployed Youth Graduates Programme is a government-funded work exposure initiative aimed at helping graduates gain hands-on experience while contributing to essential municipal services.
Unlike internships that are purely observational, this programme places graduates directly within municipal departments, allowing them to participate in daily operations, compliance activities, and service delivery projects.
Programme Snapshot
- Programme Name: EPWP Unemployed Youth Graduates Programme
- Number of Positions: 20
- Employer: Makana Local Municipality
- Directorate: Public Safety and Community Services
- Contract Duration: 6 months (fixed-term)
- Stipend: R271.04 per day
- Work Locations: Makhanda, Alicedale, Riebeek East, and surrounding rural areas
- Closing Date: 19 January 2026
Fields Available Under the EPWP Graduates Programme
The programme is aligned with municipal priority skills, environmental sustainability, and administrative capacity building. Applicants must apply for a field that matches their qualification.
Available Fields and Number of Positions
- Waste Management: 4 positions
- Horticulture: 4 positions
- Climate Change: 3 positions
- Occupational Health and Safety: 2 positions
- Human Resources Management: 2 positions
- Financial Management: 2 positions
- Public Administration: 2 positions
- Communications: 1 position
Applicants should clearly indicate the field they are applying for on the official application form.
Minimum Requirements to Apply
To be considered, applicants must meet all minimum eligibility criteria. Applications that do not meet these requirements will be rejected.
Educational Requirements
Applicants must hold a recognised Degree or Diploma in one of the following fields:
Useful Links:
- Environmental Management or Environmental Science
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Financial Management
- Human Resources
- Public Administration
- Communications
- Or an equivalent qualification relevant to the advertised fields
Additional Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must also:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid SA ID
- Be under the age of 35
- Be unemployed at the time of application
- Be medically fit to perform assigned duties
- Have knowledge of environmental legislation, particularly within local government
- Understand how local government interacts with provincial and national government
Selection and Transformation Criteria
Makana Local Municipality has outlined clear transformation targets for the programme:
- 100% Youth
- 60% Women
- 2% Persons with Disabilities
This means that young women and persons living with disabilities are strongly prioritised, in line with the municipality’s Employment Equity Plan. Local and internal municipal applicants may also receive preference.
What You Will Gain From the EPWP Graduates Programme
Although the programme runs for only six months, the benefits can have a lasting impact on a graduate’s career.
Key Benefits Include:
- Practical experience within local government structures
- Exposure to municipal compliance, governance, and service delivery
- Improved employability for future government and private sector roles
- Relevant experience aligned with environmental, administrative, and management careers
- A daily stipend to support participants during the contract period
For graduates who have qualifications but limited or no work experience, EPWP programmes are often a critical stepping stone into the labour market.
How to Apply for the EPWP 2026 Graduates Programme
All applications must be submitted using the official Makana Local Municipality Application Form. Applications submitted on incorrect forms will not be considered.
Documents Required
Ensure your application is complete. Missing documents will result in disqualification.
You must submit:
- Completed official municipal application form
- A comprehensive CV
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copies of your qualifications
- Certified copy of your driver’s licence (if required for the role)
- Any other relevant supporting documents
All certifications should be recent and clearly legible.
Submission Methods
Applicants may choose one of the following submission methods.
Postal Applications
The HR Manager
Makana Municipality
PO Box 176
Makhanda
6139
Hand Delivery
86 High Street, City Hall
Makhanda
Email Applications
Email address: [email protected]
Ensure that all documents are attached and clearly named when submitting via email.
Important Notes From Makana Local Municipality
Before applying, applicants should take note of the following official conditions:
- Canvassing of councillors or municipal officials will result in disqualification
- Preference may be given to local and internal municipal applicants
- Applications must comply with the Employment Equity Plan
- The municipality reserves the right not to fill all advertised positions
- Late or faxed applications will not be accepted
Enquiries and Closing Date
Enquiries
For further information, contact the Human Resources Practitioner on:
046 603 6110
Closing Date
19 January 2026
No extensions will be granted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this programme permanent employment?
No. This is a six-month fixed-term EPWP contract, not permanent employment.
Can I apply if I have no work experience?
Yes. The programme is specifically designed for graduates with little or no work experience.
Is the stipend paid monthly?
The stipend is calculated at R271.04 per day, typically paid monthly based on attendance.
Can I apply if I am over 35?
No. Applicants must be under the age of 35 at the time of application.
Final Thoughts: Why EPWP Matters for Graduates in 2026
Graduate unemployment remains a serious challenge in South Africa, especially for young people without practical experience. The EPWP 2026 Unemployed Youth Graduates Programme offers a structured, credible pathway into the world of work while contributing to essential municipal services.
For graduates who meet the criteria and are committed to learning, this programme can significantly improve employability and career readiness. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply early and submit complete applications before 19 January 2026.