South Africa’s persistent youth unemployment crisis has created an urgent need for programmes that equip young graduates with real-world skills and meaningful work experience. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has responded with a powerful solution — the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Graduate Programme.
WHAT IS THE DFFE EPWP GRADUATE PROGRAMME?
The EPWP is a government-led initiative aimed at providing work opportunities and income support to the unemployed. Within the DFFE, the EPWP Graduate Programme is designed specifically for unemployed graduates in fields related to environmental management, biodiversity, marine and coastal resources, forestry, and climate change.
The programme offers a 24 month fixed-term contracts, providing practical exposure and skills development for those who have completed diplomas or degrees in fields such as Environmental Science, Forestry, Marine Biology, Ecology, Environmental Education, and related disciplines.
WHY IS THIS PROGRAMME IMPORTANT?
South Africa is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. Yet, there is a growing need for qualified environmental professionals to manage natural resources sustainably. The EPWP Graduate Programme plays a crucial role in:
- Bridging the gap between tertiary education and employment.
- Creating a pipeline of skilled young professionals in the environmental sector.
- Supporting the country’s green economy and climate change resilience efforts.
WHO CAN APPLY?
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Applicants must be in possession of a relevant National Diploma in Environmental Management/ Environmental Sciences/ and or relevant qualification.
- Knowledge of environmental legislation with a focus to local government; understanding of local government and its relationship with national and provincial spheres of government.
- The following skills will serve as basic requirements: computer literacy, good verbal and written communication skills, interpersonal, coordination and stakeholder management, organizational, communication, facilitation and a good understanding of government planning processes.
- A valid driver’s license.
Additional soft skills such as communication, adaptability, and a passion for environmental stewardship are considered advantageous.
DUTIES:
- Support Environmental Planning/ Management in the municipalities, provide environmental technical support to municipalities.
- Advice the municipalities on municipal mandates in line with different environmental legislations and their application.
- Support environmental capacity building initiatives for municipalities.
- Support the assessment of municipal performance in relation to their environmental management mandate.
- Support municipal planning process and forums/ structures.
- Participate in the municipal planning processes such as Integrated Development Planning, District Development Model and ensure the integration of environmental priorities.
- Support the implementation of departmental Sector Programmes, which include project identification, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
- Facilitate environmental education and awareness within municipalities.
HOW TO APPLY:
Applicants must clearly indicate the province, reference number and the Local Municipality they are applying for in the signed application letter.
Applicants who are applying for multiple opportunities must submit separate applications. PLEASE read carefully the instructions concerning application procedures to be followed (last page). PLEASE NOTE: No other benefits apply; successful candidates will be required to cover the cost for their own accommodation and transportation to and from work if necessary.
All applications must be submitted on a signed application letter accompanied by a recent detailed curriculum vitae to be considered.
Applications may be forwarded to:
The Director-General, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Private Bag X447, Pretoria, 0001 or hand-delivered to: Environment House, Erf 1563 Arcadia Extension 6, Cnr Soutpansberg and Steve Biko Road, Arcadia, Pretoria Marked for the attention: Local Government Support Unit; and according to the reference number, province and local municipality
For hand deliveries: Applications hand-delivered: to be placed in a box marked; Local Government Support and according to the reference number, province and local municipality
For email applications / delivery
Limpopo: Applications may be emailed to MEGP_01_Limpopo@dffe.gov.za – Applicants should also indicate the reference number on the subject line when applying via email
KwaZulu Natal: Applications may be emailed to MEGP_02_KwaZuluNatal@dffe.gov.za – Applicants should also indicate the reference number on the subject line when applying via email
Mpumalanga: Applications may be emailed to MEGP_03_Mpumalanga@dffe.gov.za – Applicants should also indicate the reference number on the subject line when applying via email
Eastern Cape: Applications may be emailed to MEGP_04_EasternCape@dffe.gov.za – Applicants should also indicate the reference number on the subject line when applying via email
Western Cape: Applications may be emailed to MEGP_05_WesternCape@dffe.gov.za – Applicants should also indicate the reference number on the subject line when applying via email
Northern Cape: Applications may be emailed to MEGP_06_NothernCape@dffe.gov.za – Applicants should also indicate the reference number on the subject line when applying via email
Free State: Applications may be emailed to MEGP_07_FreeState@dffe.gov.za – Applicants should also indicate the reference number on the subject line when applying via email
North West: Applications may be emailed to MEGP_08_NorthWest@dffe.gov.za – Applicants should also indicate the reference number on the subject line when applying via email
Gauteng: Applications may be emailed to MEGP_09_Gauteng@dffe.gov.za – Applicants should also indicate the reference number on the subject line when applying via email
It is essential to double-check that all supporting documents are correctly certified and up to date.
DOWNLOAD THE DFFE EPWP GRADUATE PROGRAMME FOR 2025 ADVERT HERE
BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAMME:
Participants in the programme benefit from:
- Monthly stipend aligned with EPWP policy.
- Hands-on experience in real environmental projects.
- Mentorship from experts within the department.
- Improved employability and networking within the environmental sector.
- Possible future placement in long-term positions in government or NGOs.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment EPWP Graduate Programme is more than just a job opportunity — it’s a gateway to professional growth, environmental impact, and sustainable development. For young graduates eager to make a difference while gaining valuable experience, this programme offers a clear path forward.
CLOSING DATE: 23 JUNE 2025
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE