The project will focus on programmes such as skills development, job creation and support for entrepreneurs.
Employment and labour minister Thulas Nxesi has launched a R551m job creation project aimed at assisting almost 20,000 beneficiaries.
Nxesi said the UIF, through its labour activation programmes , had set aside the money for 19,921 beneficiaries — 70% of whom are former UIF contributors who lost their jobs — to undergo training in the following skills disciplines:150 beneficiaries as fibreoptic technicians. “Therefore, all UIF training projects must be linked to employment creation because we do not want learners to idle at home upon completion of training,” said Nxesi. Director-general of employment and labour Thobile Lamati said the department was committed to playing its role in creating jobs. “However, we pledge to play our role in projects such as this which includes jobs, especially for young people. To the learners, I urge you not to waste this opportunity because it comes once in a while.