Unemployment remains one of the biggest challenges in South Africa, particularly in underdeveloped areas like the Eastern Cape. In response to this, the Minister of Employment and Labour, Ms. Nomakhosazana Meth, will host a Jobs Drive and Career Fair while officially launching the Labour Activation Programme (LAP) in Mthatha on Friday, 28 February 2025. This initiative aims to create job opportunities, support businesses, and empower job seekers through skills development and training.
The event will take place at Mthatha Stadium from 08:00 to 15:00 and will feature multiple activities designed to connect job seekers with potential employers, provide information on labour laws, and assist the unemployed in securing work and training opportunities.
What is the Labour Activation Programme (LAP)?
The Labour Activation Programme (LAP) is a strategic initiative by the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) that focuses on:
- Supporting businesses to create employment opportunities.
- Providing training and upskilling youth through Skills Programmes, Learnerships, and Apprenticeships.
- Facilitating engagement between employers and work seekers.
- Reducing poverty by ensuring that unemployed and underemployed individuals gain access to jobs and learning opportunities.
Through this programme, DEL ensures that South Africans, especially in rural and disadvantaged communities, benefit from sustainable job creation and economic empowerment.
What Can Job Seekers Expect?
The Jobs and Career Fair will offer a wide range of services and opportunities, including:
Direct Interaction with Employers:
- Companies and businesses will be present to offer vacancies and training opportunities.
- Employers will conduct on-the-spot interviews and recruitment drives.
Training and Skills Development:
- Training institutions and government agencies will provide information on learnerships, apprenticeships, and vocational training.
- Youth will have a chance to register for skills programmes that improve their employability.
Labour Law Information and UIF Assistance:
- Officials from DEL will assist attendees with Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) claims and enquiries.
- Workers can register injury-on-duty and disease claims.
- Information on the Basic Conditions of Employment Act and the National Minimum Wage Act will be provided.
Employment Services South Africa (ESSA) Registration:
- Unemployed individuals will have access to employment database registration, which increases their chances of being matched with available job opportunities.
The Importance of Job Creation in the Eastern Cape
The Eastern Cape has one of the highest unemployment rates in South Africa. Factors such as:
- A lack of industries in rural areas,
- Limited access to skills development and training, and
- Economic challenges post-COVID-19
have contributed to the economic struggles of the province.
The Labour Activation Programme (LAP) aims to address these issues by ensuring that government, businesses, and training institutions work together to create sustainable employment opportunities.
Why Should the Media Cover This Event?
The government has made significant efforts to reduce unemployment, but many South Africans remain unaware of the services and opportunities available to them. The media plays a crucial role in educating the public about these initiatives and ensuring that more people benefit from government-driven programmes.
The Department of Employment and Labour invites media houses, journalists, and reporters to attend and cover the event to:
- Highlight success stories of beneficiaries who have secured employment through LAP.
- Provide exposure for employers and businesses investing in job creation.
- Educate the public about labour laws, employment benefits, and available job opportunities.
Event Details
- Date: Friday, 28 February 2025
- Time: 08:00 – 15:00
- Venue: Mthatha Stadium, 107 Errol Spring Ave, Mthatha Part 1, Mthatha
The Jobs Drive and Labour Activation Programme in the Eastern Cape is a step forward in reducing unemployment and empowering job seekers. By providing skills development, direct employer interaction, and financial assistance, the Department of Employment and Labour is ensuring that South Africans have access to sustainable job opportunities.
The media, job seekers, businesses, and community leaders are encouraged to support and participate in this initiative to build a stronger, more economically stable South Africa.
