An evaluation of the EPWP vuk'uphile learnership programme within Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality
Date
2013-02-05
Authors
Mukanyima, Andrew
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Abstract
The EPWP Vuk’uphile learnership programme was formulated by the National Department
of Public Works in 2006 to facilitate the development of emerging contractors into fullyfledged
business entities which are able to execute labour-intensive projects. This research
evaluates the programme implemented under Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality. The
EPWP Vuk’uphile within Ekurhuleni is not a “once off” programme; the imminent
implementation of Phase 2 makes evaluation of Phase 1 important. The findings of this
research inform programmatic intervention and ensure the continued growth of small
contractor development initiatives within Ekurhuleni.
A questionnaire, interviews and a case study are used to collect data for the evaluation of
the EPWP Vuk’uphile in Ekurhuleni. The questionnaire used was designed as a monitoring
and evaluation tool for the EPWP and hence provides this research with a measuring
instrument of the Vuk’uphile programme against its objectives. The case study is used to
extract evidence of the sustainability of the current exit strategy as well as the quality of the
graduates from the programme. The high response rate solicited from the project
participants creates a broad evaluation platform for this research on which to make
informed conclusions and recommendations on the EPWP Vuk’uphile in Ekurhuleni.
It is the research findings that the EPWP Vuk’uphile in Ekurhuleni is to a great extent a
successful enterprise. The role played by the EPWP, Ekurhuleni and other stakeholders in
identifying past failures in Public Works Programmes and mitigating them has ensured that
sustainable growth is realised. The research findings also identify areas for improvement, for
which this research provides recommendations.
KEYWORDS: Contractor learnership; Labour-intensive Construction; Expanded Public Works Programme