EPWP’s new USSD registration fully operational again – Social Development Department

The new unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) registration of the expanded public works programme (EPWP) is back online after technical difficulties due to the high volume of registrations.

The EPWP launched the new USSD registration system at the metro’s Sammy Marks Building in the CBD on Monday, November 20.

Residents interested in registering for the programme simply had to dial the metro’s USSD platform on *120*5757# and follow the steps to be considered for admission into the programme.

After the launch, users of the Tshwane community and social development services department’s new platform experienced technical difficulties due to the sheer volume of registrations.

“The system was designed to facilitate the registration process for EPWP beneficiaries and experienced a temporary crash, causing inconvenience for users,” said community and social development services MMC, Cllr Peggy De Bruin.

She assured residents that technicians were attending to the problem and urged interested parties who had failed to register to keep track of metro announcements for when the USSD would be operational again.

On Tuesday, November 21, the MMC announced via social media that the system was operational once again and assured residents steps were being taken to ensure a similar event did not occur again.

The metro’s new EPWP USSD registration system is apparently revolutionising the registration process for unemployed residents who wish to participate in the programme.

“We’ve had serious challenges with how EPWP applications have been handled in the past. People have had to come from as far as Bronkhorstspruit and other areas to fill in applications forms here in the CBD. It was also a problem on our side to ensure we had enough manpower to process all the applications and assist residents. The USSD system will reduce the pressure on ourselves and community members as well,” she said.

Residents previously had to collect registration forms from the G03 EPWP office in the Ou Raadsaal Building on Church Square.

The MMC said that technology alone could not solve the unemployment crisis, thus the metro also invested in building a dedicated support staff to provide professional guidance to jobseekers through their journey. This human touch together with technology are providing a comprehensive and holistic approach to tackling unemployment.

“This platform will empower our residents to take control of their future and actively contribute to the growth and development of our nation. Furthermore, it will provide real-time updates and notifications, ensuring jobseekers are informed about new opportunities as they arise. This will eliminate the need for lengthy paperwork, making the registration process more efficient and convenient for all,” said De Bruin.

Afika Nontso of the metro’s ICT team, who demonstrated the USSD registration shared the MMC’s sentiments, urging residents interested in the EPWP to take part in the simple process that doesn’t require internet connectivity and can be accessed on any mobile phone.

“The USSD is one of the examples of Tshwane making sure it is a city that works for its people in an innovative way. You can access the registration process from anywhere without having to travel far distances,” Nontso said.

Once applicants dial 120*5757#, they must follow the prompts that pop up. Once the administrators go through your application at the back-end, the applicant will be added to the database and be selected for further jobs for which they meet selection criteria.

Residents can also track, monitor and delete their application if needed without travelling to or talking to a metro official.

People can provide their personal details, such as their name and ID number, allowing Tshwane to match them to suitable EPWP employment opportunities.

The USSD platform is designed to be inclusive for individuals between the ages of 18 and 60, regardless of background or access to technology.

Tshwane EPWP division head Kgomotso Llale said initiatives such as these were the reason why no other metro in the country recorded more EPWP numbers than Tshwane.

“Currently in the entire country, Tshwane is leading in terms of EPWP numbers and we’ve reported more numbers than any other metro nationwide. So the EPWP in Tshwane is successful and we are ensuring our residents have access to these job opportunities,” Llale said.

The USSD gives applicants the option to select their region or ward and options to update addresses, as well as add or remove skills. Residents would still be required to physically go to the offices, should they want to delete their profile from the metro database.

“The launch of the USSD platform for the EPWP registration process marks a significant milestone in our ongoing effort to address unemployment. It is a testament to our commitment to creating a society where each and every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully,” said De Bruin.

“I urge all residents to embrace this platform, to register on it and actively engage with the opportunities it presents.”

Residents interested in applying to the programme must meet the following requirements:

– be a South African citizen

– be 18 to 60 years old

– be unemployed

– have an ID and proof of residence

To report fraud and corruption in Tshwane, call the hotline on 080 874 9263.

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