GPG RELAUNCHES NASI ISPANI TO CREATE 45 000 YOUTH JOBS

By Sipho Ncube.

• Gauteng’s Nasi iSpani programme has been relaunched with the aim of seeing 45 000 young South Africans employed within the next two months.
•  ⁠The programme provides job opportunities, workplace experience, and accredited training for young South Africans.
• Through Nasi iSpani, the province’s Crime Prevention Wardens programme had already surpassed 9 000 recruits.

Gauteng’s Nasi iSpani Youth Service Programme has been relaunched, tackling youth unemployment through providing job opportunities for young South Africans.

The programme, run by the Gauteng Provincial Government under Premier Panyaza Lesufi, relaunched the Nasi iSpani Youth Service Programme in Katlehong, reaffirming its commitment to tackling youth unemployment.

The programme aims to see 45 000 young people employed within the next two months.

The relaunch of the programme, run by the Gauteng Provincial Government under Premier Panyaza Lesufi, was held at the Change Bible Church in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, on 11 September 2025.

Thousands of young people from Tokoza, Katlehong, and Vosloorus attended, eager to seize opportunities for work experience, accredited training, and sustainable employment.

Premier Lesufi assured the youth that the initiative would open doors to a better future.

“Those who can’t get employment now, don’t despair, remain hopeful because there are more job opportunities coming your way soon. We come to you because we have the political power and the will to create employment for you,” he said.

The Premier highlighted that government infrastructure projects requiring maintenance would provide immediate opportunities for skills such as plumbing and electrical work.

Beneficiaries will receive stipends while undergoing training, ensuring that learning and earning go hand-in-hand.

Panyaza noted that opportunities were for Gauteng residents who are also South African citizens.

“For the next 20 months, participants will receive stipends — but we urge them not to abuse this chance by absconding, arriving late, or dropping out unnecessarily,” he cautioned.

Lesufi further revealed that the Crime Prevention Wardens programme had already surpassed 9 000 recruits, while the Expanded Public Works Programme was set to roll out soon.

Through Nasi iSpani, the Gauteng government aims not only to fight unemployment but also to build state capacity by equipping young people with critical skills, practical experience, and pathways to long-term careers.