A fresh wave of 45 000 job and training opportunities is set to benefit Gauteng as the provincial government launches the second round of the Nasi Ispani programme on 6 September.

The initiative, described as a “transformative” tool to combat unemployment, develop skills and deter crime while strengthening state capacity, specifically targets young people not in employment, education, or training (NEET).

“In this year’s State of the Province Address, the Gauteng government reaffirmed its commitment to tackling unemployment as a primary focus. As a key part of this effort, the Nasi Ispani initiative will be relaunched on 6 September.

“Originally launched in June 2023, Nasi Ispani has already generated substantial employment through its 13 Special Programmes. This next phase, Nasi Ispani 2.0, aims to create 45 000 new job opportunities. It will specifically target youth who are not in employment, education, or training,” Premier Panyaza Lesufi said during a media briefing on Wednesday.

Opportunities will include internships, work-integrated learning, artisanal training in mining communities, the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, and the filling of public sector vacancies. Programmes from the first intake will also continue, such as the Aga Lerona Road Workers, the Sawubona Mhlali Brigade, and internships.

The second round will focus on the Unemployed Youth Skills Development Initiative (UYSDI), expected to enrol some 2 810 participants in trades such as plumbing, electrical work, construction, electronics repair, painting, tiling, landscaping, woodworking, and basic automotive servicing.

The Gauteng City Region Academy will also offer training in solar photovoltaic installation, carpentry, plumbing assistance, ICT learnerships, welding, and paving operations, alongside opportunities in mining communities.

“Nasi Ispani is not a panacea or a magic wand that will solve the problem of unemployment. Its core objective is to build a capable state by hiring residents directly for public service roles while equipping youth with skills to secure work in the public or private sectors or to start their own businesses,” Lesufi said.