Technical Assistance to the National Department Of Public Works and Infrastructure’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Phase V

The ILO Technical Support to National EPWP Phase 5 outlines a strategic partnership between the International Labour Organization (ILO) and South Africa’s Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) to enhance the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). This initiative responds to South Africa’s persistent socioeconomic challenges—high unemployment, inequality, and infrastructure deficits—by leveraging public employment programmes to stimulate inclusive growth, skills development, and climate resilience. Strategic objectives: - To foster inclusive and sustainable employment creation. - To strengthen institutional capacity for labour-intensive infrastructure delivery. - To promote climate-smart and digital innovation in public employment. - To enhance exit pathways for EPWP participants through skills and enterprise development. Key Interventions - Development and digital upgrading of EPWP management systems, including biometric and AI-enabled monitoring tools. - Research and advocacy for climate-resilient infrastructure, nature-based solutions, and green jobs. - Capacity building through training, curriculum integration, and partnerships with higher education institutions. - Support for enterprise development and public-private partnerships to facilitate youth employment and entrepreneurship. Outcomes - Outcome No. 1: Development, implementation and advocacy of forward-looking, climate-smart and pro-employment frameworks, strategies and systems supported. - Outcome No. 2: Enhanced adaptive capabilities of public institutions and private sector partners to optimise employment creation. - Outcome No. 3: Enhanced sustainable exit pathways for EPWP Participants.

Project symbol

ZAF/25/02/ZAF

Admin unit

DWT/CO-Pretoria

Start date

01/10/2025

End date

30/09/2029

Total allocation

1500000

Total expenditure

Status

Active

447259

Development Partners

South Africa, National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DWPI)

Country/Countries

South Africa

Outcomes

Outcome 3: Full and productive employment for just transitions