The National Youth Programme (NYP) was launched by the Department of Public Works in 2004 as part of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
This initiative was introduced as a means to train and provide 11 000 young people with practical work experience over a five-year period, up to 2009. The programme has evolved over the years and now comprises 192 national projects to the value of R9 billion.
The beneficiaries, aged between 18 and 35, receive orientation, life skills and technical skills training from accredited training service providers. Upon completion of their training, they are employed by contractors for periods of at least six months in order to gain practical work experience. Contractors are tasked with the responsibility to supervise, assist and mentor these beneficiaries in order to optimise their career development.
Nolitha has to date, through virtual Consulting Engineers, the implementing agents for EPWP, provided more than 300 learners with life skills and technical skills training. This training was coupled with essential construction site work, thus affording them the opportunity of actively participating in the South African Economy.
