What’s the job?
The Makana Local Municipality, working with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), is looking for 20 young people to join the EPWP Unemployed Youth Graduates Programme 2026. The jobs are short‑term contracts that let you learn real skills inside local government and help the community in areas like waste, gardens, climate, safety and more.
Quick facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Program name | EPWP Unemployed Youth Graduates Programme |
| Positions | 20 |
| Employer | Makana Local Municipality |
| Department | Public Safety and Community Services |
| Contract length | 6 months (fixed) |
| Daily stipend | R271.04 |
| Locations | Makhanda, Alicedale, Riebeek East & nearby rural spots |
| Last day to apply | 19 January 2026 |
Where can you work?
| Field | Spots |
|---|---|
| Waste Management | 4 |
| Horticulture | 4 |
| Climate Change | 3 |
| Occupational Health & Safety | 2 |
| Human Resources | 2 |
| Financial Management | 2 |
| Public Administration | 2 |
| Communications | 1 |
The jobs are chosen to match the municipality’s biggest needs and to support the environment.
What you need
- A degree or diploma that matches one of the fields above, or an equivalent qualification.
- A good understanding of environmental laws that apply to local government.
- Know how local government works with provincial and national bodies.
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Be under 35 years old.
- Be in good health.
The programme favours young women and people with disabilities. You also have to be a South African citizen and under 35.
Why it matters
Even though the contract lasts only half a year, it can give you:
- Real experience working in a local council.
- A look inside how a municipality runs and follows rules.
- A better chance to land future jobs in government or the private sector.
- A monthly stipend to help you while you learn.
- A boost to your résumé if you’re a recent graduate who hasn’t worked yet.
How to apply
All applications must go through the official Makana Municipality Application Form.
Documents you’ll need:
- Completed application form.
- Full CV.
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copies of any qualifications.
- Certified copy of your driver’s licence if it’s required for the role.
- Anything else that supports your case.
Missing a document will stop your application from being considered.
Submission ways
| Method | Address |
|---|---|
| Post | HR Manager, Makana Municipality, PO Box 176, Makhanda, 6139 |
| Hand delivery | 86 High Street, City Hall, Makhanda |
| epwp.recruitment@makana.gov.za |
Important notes
- Trying to convince councillors or other officials will get you out of the running.
- Local and internal applicants get priority.
- Your application must match the municipality’s employment equity plan.
- The municipality may decide not to fill all 20 spots.
- Late or faxed applications are not accepted.
If you have questions, call the Human Resources Practitioner at 046 603 6110.
How Edupstairs can help
Edupstairs doesn’t just list jobs. We give you a chance to win them by showing you how to stand out.
Quick tips if you qualify
- Keep your CV tidy, clear and professional.
- Pick the field that matches your degree exactly.
- Apply early so you don’t miss deadlines.
- Save copies of everything you send.
This programme is a bridge between finishing school and starting a career.
What comes next
Completing an EPWP graduate programme can open doors to:
- Environmental officer posts.
- Administrative roles in municipal offices.
- Climate‑change and sustainability projects.
- Internships with NGOs or other government bodies.
- Permanent jobs in local government.
Having this experience shows you can work inside governance and care about the environment.
Final reminder
The closing date is 19 January 2026. After that, the application window will close with no extensions. Make sure you finish everything on time.
Quick reference
- Organisation – Makana Local Municipality
- Source – Official website / career portal
- Apply by – In‑person or walk‑in
- Reference – MLM_EPWP2026
Note: This article is for information only. Edupstairs is not part of Makana Municipality. Always use official sources when you apply.
