Abstract:
The study analysed the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and Job Creation
on Early Childhood Development (ECD) in the Department of Education in the
Sekhukhune District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The aim was to examine how
the programme was implemented in ECD centres and how the EPWP improved the
lives of ECD practitioners. The EPWP's challenges in meeting its intended objectives
were addressed, as were policymakers' recommendations to improve EPWP in ECD
centres. The study employed a qualitative research method, with data gathered from
previously published documents, transcripts, and sources. Furthermore, by extracting
relevant data from existing sources, this method enabled the researcher to understand
better on how the EPWP was able to create jobs in the ECD centres. The study showed
that job opportunities for ECD practitioners were created through training and the
payment of stipends. However, the study discovered that the job opportunities created
were not permanent because the programme only lasted twelve months. The study
recommends that the programmer’s duration be increased. Again, the study
recommends future research on approaches relevant to assisting workers (practitioners)
with exit opportunities beyond EPWP
