21 Jun 2015

Some members of Ntlo ya Dikgosi have expressed concern over the newly introduced Graduate Volunteer Scheme (GVS) stating that it is a way of exploiting graduates.

Responding to a presentation from the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture (MYSC) on GVS, dikgosi suggested that when a graduate volunteered and there is a vacant post coming up in that department, such graduate should be absorbed in that post.

They said it was indicated in the past that government was experiencing a high wage bill and hence would cut the workforce adding that this would generate opportunities for young people as they would be absorbed by government at entry level rather than high salary scales.

They said the graduation internship and volunteering schemes exploited qualified children because they spent time working for government and private sector and in the end they are not employed.

However, MYSC deputy permanent secretary, Mr Kgopotso Ramoroka explained that some graduates do get to be absorbed by different companies while they are on internship or volunteering.

He stated that it is a different matter with government because labour laws have to be followed which meant that everyone had to apply for a post and compete to secure that post for fairness.

Mr Ramoroka said GVS is not work, but a scheme meant to keep unemployed graduates engaged while waiting for internship or employment opportunities hence there is no salary paid.

He said the scheme is open to unemployed young people with graduate qualifications some of whom have gone through two years of national internship but willing to continue as volunteers.

He said the program was introduced in April which allows for placement in public institutions only including disciplined forces. 

He said generally, participants are enrolled in places where they have accommodation to avoid costs.

He further highlighted that the participants are given priority for placement in the internship programme if the need arise, saying participants only receive a meal allowance of P600 per month and it should be noted that it is not a salary. ENDS