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On Tuesday, 22 June 2021, forming part of his ongoing District Development Model activities, Minister of Employment and Labour Thulas Nxesi officially opened the employment centre and launched the mobile UIF buses in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal.
Accompanied by the Amajuba District Municipality Mayor, Dr Musa Ngubane, and other senior officials from the Labour Department—The Employment Centre aims to connect job seekers to potential employment opportunities within the Amajuba District Municipality, particularly young people. The centre will also assist job seekers with strategies for job searching, finding a job and preparing for an interview.
Data released by Statistics South Africa earlier this month revealed that the country’s unemployment rate reached 32.6% in the first three months of 2021. Furthermore, according to the data, the official unemployment rate among youth (15-34 years) was 46.3% in quarter 1, 2021. In lieu thereof, Minister Nxesi reminded guests that the youth play an indispensable role within society. Therefore, he said it was required to assist and give them the necessary opportunities to secure employment.
Furthermore, the centre is outfitted with IT equipment, assisting the unemployed and, jointly, employers with relevant employment services, such as aiding people with UIF and compensation.
Additionally, in an effort to reach most of the Department’s clients, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has procured eight mobile units (buses). The buses will provide essential services offered by the Department, especially in areas without labour centres. The movement of the vehicles will be controlled and monitored by the Fund and will also be available for strategic outreach programmes such as Izimbizo and Taking Services to the People.
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