EPWP Services Basket brings opportunities to Uniondale community

Residents of Uniondale gathered at the Lyonville Gemeenskapsaal on 15 September 2026 for the Department of Infrastructure’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Services Basket event. The initiative aimed to connect community members with skills development opportunities, contractor support programmes and information that can help improve access to employment and economic opportunities. 

The EPWP Services Basket showcased a range of skill-building opportunities, including short skills training programmes, learnerships, apprenticeships and the Masakh’iSizwe Bursary Programme. These initiatives are designed to equip participants with practical skills and qualifications that can enhance their employability and support career development in various sectors. 

Community members also had the opportunity to engage with the Contractor Development Programme, which featured a Contractor Information Expo as well as contractor training and mentoring interventions. These programmes are intended to support emerging contractors by providing valuable information, guidance and capacity-building opportunities to help them grow sustainable businesses. 

A key component of the event was the skills audit, which sought to determine the training interests and needs of local residents. The information gathered will assist the Department to align its training and development programmes with the expressed priorities of this community. 

The EPWP remains one of South Africa’s flagship government programmes aimed at creating work opportunities while developing skills among unemployed and marginalised communities. Through events such as the Uniondale EPWP Services Basket, the Department of Infrastructure continues to strengthen community engagement and ensure that residents are aware of the opportunities available to improve their livelihoods and contribute to local economic development.