Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has relaunched the much-anticipated Nasi Ispani programme, bringing with it 32,000 new jobs for Gauteng youth. This bold initiative is set to tackle the province’s persistent youth unemployment challenge by opening doors to meaningful work and skills development opportunities.
What is Nasi Ispani and Why Relaunch It Now?
“Nasi Ispani” translates to “here is work” in isiZulu — a fitting name for a programme that targets young people not currently in employment, education, or training (NEET). Originally launched to provide temporary work, this programme’s 2025 relaunch marks a substantial expansion.
Premier Lesufi made it clear that this isn’t just about creating jobs; it’s about empowering young people for the long term. “The relaunch of Nasi Ispani reflects our dedication to tackling youth unemployment head-on and investing in the future of Gauteng’s youth,” he said. The focus now is on creating 32,000 assistant teacher posts across Gauteng’s public schools — providing valuable classroom support and real work experience.
How Does Nasi Ispani Create Jobs for Gauteng Youth?
Assistant Teachers: Supporting Education and Employability
One of the most exciting aspects of the relaunch is the recruitment of assistant teachers. These roles will help ease pressure on existing educators, improve learner support, and, importantly, give young people the chance to earn a living while gaining practical experience in schools.
By offering these positions, the programme tackles two pressing issues: youth unemployment and teacher shortages. It’s a win-win for learners and young job seekers alike.
Skills Development Through TVET Colleges
But Nasi Ispani doesn’t stop at classroom roles. The programme also partners with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to offer accredited training in trades like welding, plumbing, electrical work, and tiling.
This means that beyond temporary work, young people can build marketable skills that open doors to sustainable careers in various sectors. It’s about equipping youth with the tools to succeed well beyond their time as assistant teachers.
Addressing Concerns and Looking Ahead
Like any large-scale government initiative, Nasi Ispani has faced some criticism. Opposition parties have questioned whether it might be politically motivated or a short-term fix. But Premier Lesufi has been clear: this programme is about real, lasting impact for young people, not political gain.
To ensure the initiative’s success, the Gauteng Department of Education will monitor progress closely, and partnerships with TVET colleges will be regularly evaluated to maintain training quality.
The Bigger Picture: Gauteng’s Youth Employment Strategy
Nasi Ispani is part of a wider effort by the Gauteng government to combat youth unemployment and improve public service delivery. With over 1.2 million applications received in earlier phases, it’s clear that young people are eager for these opportunities.
Alongside job creation, Gauteng is investing in infrastructure and community projects that will create even more work across sectors such as construction and public safety.
What Experts and Communities Are Saying
Community voices have responded positively, though with cautious optimism. Thabo Mokoena, spokesperson for the Gauteng Youth Forum, noted, “Nasi Ispani is a promising step, but the focus must be on ensuring these jobs lead to lasting careers.”
Education experts agree that combining classroom support with vocational skills training addresses both immediate unemployment and longer-term education challenges — a smart and comprehensive approach.
A Strong Step Toward Youth Empowerment
The relaunch of Nasi Ispani, with 32,000 new jobs for Gauteng youth, signals the provincial government’s strong commitment to tackling youth unemployment in a meaningful way. By focusing on real work experience and skills development, the programme offers a pathway to empowerment for young people and strengthens the education system at the same time.
With careful oversight and continued investment, Nasi Ispani can become a cornerstone of Gauteng’s youth employment strategy, turning opportunity into lasting success.
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