The Department of Employment and Labour, through its entity, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), has partnered with private businesses, SETAs, and NGOs to address unemployment and foster economic growth. These partnerships have resulted in funding of over R1.9 billion for more than three years, which will create employment opportunities for over 56,000 youths in the Eastern Cape Province across 33 projects.

The Labour Activation Programmes span various sectors, including Agriculture, ICT, Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing, Safety and Security, Hospitality, Social Services, Textile, and Transport. The aim is to have a diverse impact on the province's workforce.

The announcement was made by the Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi, at the launch event in East London. The event was attended by Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane.

Beneficiary, Xolisile Govuza, who is in the Agriculture Sector, expressed her excitement, "I am thrilled to be a part of this Labour employment program. This is a fantastic opportunity to secure a job, learn new skills, meet incredible people, and contribute to my community. I can't wait to dive in and make the most of this chance to grow personally and professionally."

This Eastern Cape launch is part of a nationwide R23.8 billion training initiative for employment and entrepreneurship that aims to create over 700,000 job opportunities, demonstrating the government s commitment to tackling unemployment challenges.

Recent initiatives such as the opening of a new engineering TVET campus in Sterkspruit and the creation of work opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) demonstrate the government's commitment to tackling unemployment head-on.

This investment of R1.9 billion into the LAP initiative is a testament to the government's determination to empower citizens and drive socio-economic transformation.