Makana Municipality: EPWP Youth Internships 2026 – Secure Your Spot

EPWP Youth Graduate Programme – Makana Local Municipality

Do you just finished university or a diploma and have no job yet?
The Makana Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape is hiring young people like you. They’re offering a six‑month fixed‑term contract that gives you real work experience, a small daily stipend, and a chance to learn useful skills while helping your community. The job is based in Makhanda, Alicedale, and Riebeek East, and you’ll be working in fields that help keep the town clean, green, and safe.

What the Job Looks Like

This program is part of South Africa’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), working hand in hand with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment. The municipality wants to give unemployed graduates a chance to:

• Learn in a real office or on the ground – you’ll see how local government operates.
• Build skills in areas like waste management, horticulture, climate change, safety, HR, finance, or administration.
• Earn money while you learn – the daily pay is R271.04.

There are 20 spots to fill, with 4 positions each in waste management and horticulture, 3 in climate change and occupational health, and 2 in HR, finance, and public administration.

When and Where

• Application deadline: 19 January 2026
• Locations: Makhanda, Alicedale, Riebeek East – all in the Eastern Cape

The program is open to anyone who is a South African citizen, under 35, and has a recognized degree or diploma in one of the listed subjects or something similar. You also need to know a bit about environmental rules and how local government works. A clean medical report and a valid ID are required, too.

Who Should Apply

If you’re a graduate who can’t find a job right away, this is a good chance to get your foot in the door. The municipality is especially keen to fill its seats with:

• Youth only – the program is only for young people who are not yet employed.
• Women – 60 % of the spots are reserved for women.
• Persons with disabilities – 2 % of the spots are set aside for them.

If you belong to a group that has been historically disadvantaged in South Africa, you’re strongly encouraged to apply.

How to Get Started

1. Download the application form
   Go to the Makana Municipality website and click on the link below to get the official form.
   Download Application Form

2. Prepare your documents – you’ll need:

   • The official application form fully filled out
   • A current CV
   • A certified copy of your South African ID
   • Certified copies of your degree or diploma
   • If you drive, a copy of your driver’s licence (only if the job requires it)
   • Anything else that supports your application

   Don’t forget – missing documents will get you disqualified.

3. Send it in – You can hand it to the HR manager, mail it, or email it.

   • Post – HR Manager, Makana Local Municipality, P.O. Box 176, Makhanda, 6139
   • Hand delivery – 86 High Street, City Hall, Makhanda
   • Email – epwp.recruitment@makana.gov.za

   Applications that arrive late or via fax will not be considered.

4. No phone applications – If you have questions, call 046 603 6110. They can give you information only – they won’t accept your application over the phone.

Why This Matters

You might think a six‑month stint is short, but it gives you a taste of how public services run. You’ll gain hands‑on experience that can help you land a full‑time job later in government or other sectors. Plus, you get paid while you learn, which can help cover living costs while you build a professional network.

If you’re a young graduate who’s eager to make a difference, this program is a practical stepping stone. It connects you with real work, introduces you to the world of environmental and public service, and gives you a paycheck while you gain new skills.

Quick Facts

Final Tips

• First preference will be given to people already working or living in the municipality.
• The municipality may decide not to fill all the posts, so be ready for competition.
• Make sure your application is neat and complete; missing a single document can cost you.

If you meet the requirements and want to learn how a local government operates while earning money, this is the place to start. Apply before 19 January 2026 and turn your graduation into a real career beginning.