The Gauteng Provincial Government is bringing back its flagship Nasi iSpani programme, and this time it’s bigger than ever.
The relaunch on Thursday, 11 September 2025 marks a massive step in tackling youth unemployment, with the aim of getting 45 218 young people in training.
If you’re unemployed and looking for a way to gain practical skills, this is your chance to be part of one of the largest youth empowerment initiatives in South Africa.
What is Nasi iSpani?
Nasi iSpani is a skills development and job placement programme created to give young people the tools they need to succeed in today’s tough job market.
The initiative focuses on:
- Opening doors for unemployed youth.
- Equipping participants with trade and technical skills that are in high demand.
- Building a self-sufficient workforce to reduce Gauteng’s reliance on outsourcing through tenders.
It’s all about creating real jobs, real skills, and real opportunities for the next generation.
Relaunch Date and Details
Date: Thursday, 11 September 2025
Province-wide roll-out across Gauteng
The relaunch is not just symbolic, it’s a call to action for thousands of young people to grab the opportunity and secure their future. With training centres spread across schools and technical colleges in Gauteng, accessibility has been made a priority.
45 218 Training Slots Available
The scale of Nasi iSpani is impressive. The programmes aims to put 45 218 young people in training to sharpen their skills in key industries such as:
- Bricklaying and plastering
- Painting and tiling
- Floor finishing
- Paving, landscaping, and grass cutting
- Domestic electrical work
- Automotive repairs
- Welding and metalwork
- Plumbing
- Repairs of electronic equipment
These trades are not just training courses they are pathways to employment, self-employment, and entrepreneurship.
Learn more: Occupational Qualifications Are Here — Real Skills, Real Jobs, Real Growth!
Why Nasi iSpani Matters: Reducing Reliance on Tenders
For years, government projects relied heavily on outsourcing through tenders. Nasi iSpani changes that.
By building up a skilled workforce, the Gauteng government can:
- Deploy trained youth to infrastructure and service delivery projects.
- Strengthen local communities with home-grown talent.
- Support small businesses and cooperatives led by young people.
This is about building a capable, ethical, and developmental state that puts people first.
Learn more: Lesufi announces plan to end ‘corrupt’ tender system with new Nasi Ispani phase
How to Take Part in Nasi iSpani Programme 2025
Applying for Nasi iSpani is quick, free, and accessible to all Gauteng youth. The government has created multiple channels so no one is left out, even if you don’t have internet access.
Here’s how you can contact Nasi iSpani:
1. Call the Toll-Free Number
- 0800 22 88 27
- This number is free to call from any network.
- You will be assisted by a call centre agent who will guide you through the application process and answer questions about requirements.
2. Use the USSD Code (No Airtime Needed)
- Dial *134*47472# on your cellphone.
- Follow the prompts to submit your personal details and select your area of interest.
- Because the USSD line is zero-rated, you don’t need airtime or data to use it — making it the easiest option for most applicants.
3. Via Email
- Send your details to: support@gauteng.gov.za
- Make sure to include:
- Full name and surname
- ID number
- Contact number
- Residential address
- Highest qualification
- The skill area you’re interested in (e.g., plumbing, electrical, welding, etc.)
Who Can Apply?
Nasi iSpani is open to all young people in Gauteng:
- School leavers with incomplete schooling or poor matric results.
- Matriculants, including those with Maths, Technical Maths, or post-matric certificates.
- Graduates with diplomas or degrees looking for practical skills.
Good to know: You don’t need prior experience. As long as you’re between 18 and 35 years old, unemployed, and a resident of Gauteng, you can apply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Nasi iSpani 2025?
Nasi iSpani 2025 is a Gauteng Provincial Government programme that provides youth with practical skills training opportunities to improve employment prospects and reduce unemployment.
2. When is the Nasi iSpani relaunch 2025?
The official relaunch takes place on Saturday, 6 September 2025, with new training opportunities available for young people across Gauteng.
3. How do I apply for Nasi iSpani 2025?
You can apply through the toll-free number (0800 22 88 27), the USSD code (*134*47472#), or by sending an email to support@gauteng.gov.za.
4. Who qualifies to join Nasi iSpani training?
Applications are open to unemployed youth in Gauteng, aged 18–35 years, whether you have incomplete schooling, matric, a diploma, or a degree.
5. What skills are offered in the Nasi iSpani training opportunities?
Training covers practical trades such as bricklaying, painting, plumbing, welding, electrical work, tiling, paving, landscaping, and automotive repairs.
6. What is the Nasi iSpani USSD code?
The official USSD code is *134*47472#, which is zero-rated — you don’t need airtime or data to use it.
7. Where are the Nasi iSpani training centres located?
Training is available at schools, colleges, and technical centres across Gauteng, ensuring accessibility for youth in both urban and township areas.
8. Why is Nasi iSpani important for youth employment in Gauteng?
The programme helps reduce reliance on tenders by creating a skilled local workforce. It empowers young people to secure jobs or start small businesses, boosting Gauteng’s economy.
Here’s What the Youth Thinks
Do Not Miss This Opportunity
Nasi iSpani is more than a training programme, it’s a lifeline for thousands of young people who need skills, income, and hope for the future.
Whether you dream of becoming a qualified electrician, opening your own plumbing business, or simply gaining a trade that puts food on the table, this initiative is designed to get you there.