The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) on Wednesday committed to training 330 youth nationwide in various artisan trades over the next three to four years.

The multimillion-rand EPWP Artisan Development Programme, launched by Public Works Minister Thulas Nxesi in June, aimed to assist unskilled and unemployed youth to obtain artisan status.

The National Department of Higher Education and Training, through the National Skills Fund, and the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Merseta) would jointly fund the EPWP Artisan Development Programme.

Merseta, as part of a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Public Works, would manage the three- to four-year training of the various artisan trades, such as autotronic, boilermaking, diesel mechanic, automotive electrician, fitter and turner, motor mechanic, auto electrician, air-conditioning and refrigeration.

The training authority would also be responsible for the placement of the learners in Merseta-registered companies for apprenticeship training.

“On-the-job training is alternated with periods of training-centre-based learning. Apprentices also receive ongoing mentoring with qualified mentors and a tailored development plan to ensure their success in the industry.

“At the end, the apprentices will undertake a trade test to qualify with an Artisan Certificate issued by the Quality Council for Trade and Occupations,” Nxesi said.

Aspirant learners, who were required to hold a matric certificate with Maths, English and Physical Science or N2 qualifications relevant to the trades, would be selected through projects such as the National Youth Service, Working on Fire, as well as from EPWP sectors including the social, environment and culture and non-State sectors.