R12-m city building to bridge gap for Magabheni job seekers

Youth and job seekers are set to benefit immensely from the eMagabheni Sizakala Centre, south of Durban, which is currently under construction.

The new centre will house a human resources unit computer lab that will specifically ensure residents have access to the city’s e-Careers portal to apply for municipal vacancies.

The computer lab will be equipped with 10 computers and will have access to the internet so that each applicant can create their email address to successfully apply for employment. The project is estimated to cost about R12-million and will see municipal services provided by revenue, Sizakala Centre and housing units located under one roof.

The local ward councillor’s office, South Africa Social Security Agency and the Department of Social Development offices will also be located at the premises.

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Zinhle Malevu, senior human resources officer at the Human Resources Unit said the e-Careers lab is an important component of the centre and will ensure that services are brought closer to the community.

“We are providing this facility as many job seekers do not have access to the internet.”

She added that it is also convenient for residents. “Many people usually travel far distances to access services and to get to a computer lab. This will make life easier for residents in line with the principles of Batho Pele, which means putting people first.”

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Celimpilo Zungu of the City’s Sizakala Customer Care Unit said construction is on track as the centre is about 30% complete and the anticipated date for completion is the end of October.

“We have had to revise the layout to accommodate the computer lab, but we are happy with the progress so far as the foundation for the new area is being laid and laying of brick work will commence soon,” said Zungu.