By Johannah Malogadihlare
The Labour and Employment Department has introduced an internship programme to recruit 20,000 inspector and enforcement interns over the next two years.
They would ensure that all corners of the country were covered to protect workers and uphold their rights, Labour and Employment Minister Nomakhosazana Meth said on Monday.
“We are committed to strengthening workplace compliance and ensuring that every South African enjoys a fair, safe and healthy work environment,” she said.
“Expanding our inspectorate will help us enforce labour laws more effectively, safeguard workers’ rights and improve compliance across multiple sectors.”
She said the first 10,000 interns would be recruited this year, and the remaining 10,000 in 2026.
Meth said the increased inspections would help identify and address issues of non- compliance with labour legislation, including the underpayment of wages and inadequate health and safety measures.
She said the programme was also important because it would give thousands of young graduates practical, on-the-job experience, which would help tackle youth unemployment and promote economic upliftment in local communities.
Meth believes that the increased inspections will encourage compliance, reduce infractions and enhance the quality of work environments across the country.
“Strengthening our labour inspectorate is vital for protecting workers’ rights and ensuring that the protections provided by law are upheld on the ground. The department stands ready to support employers in meeting these obligations, ultimately benefiting workers, businesses and the nation as a whole,” Meth said in a statement.
Qualified candidates were encouraged to submit their applicationson Public Services and Administration Department’s website before the closing date of 21 February 2025.
Meanwhile, the Congress of SA Trade Unions has welcomed the announcement, saying that workers have struggled for decades with non-compliant companies.
“We are deeply concerned by the large number of employers who continue to ignore our labour laws and undermine workers’ rights. As the department brings on board these new inspectors, it is critical that workplace inspections are ramped up and delinquent employers dealt with,” Cosatu said.
The federation said it would continue to work closely with the department to boost compliance and protect the rights of all workers.
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