A new wave of young energy is transforming local police stations across the Western Cape. They are doing this one coat of paint, one patrol vehicle and one opportunity at a time. Police- Colonel Andrè Traut says through the SAPS Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), hundreds of young men and women are hard at work repainting community service centres.

MEC Marais said, “Thank you to the South African Police Service for playing a key role in further upskilling these young graduates by equipping them with valuable practical skills.

A new wave of young energy is transforming local police stations

They are also refurbishing detention cells and applying official SAPS markings to patrol vehicles. He says their efforts not only brighten up police facilities but also will ensure that vehicles and stations meet national safety and compliance standards. Traut says the initiative was launched in June 2022 in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. It is now in its second phase. He says it continues to create opportunities for unemployed youth to gain practical trade skills, accredited training, and work experience. These can open real pathways into the job market for them.

“These opportunities not only increase their employability but also open doors to entrepreneurship,” added MEC Marais.

Young energy

In its first phase, participants focused on revamping the interiors and exteriors of community service centres across the province. This created safer and more welcoming spaces for both SAPS members and the public they serve. To date, more than 5,000 young people have benefited from the programme. Many of them have gone on to find employment or even join the ranks of SAPS as fully fledged constables, turning their training into lifelong service to their communities.

Major-General Preston Voskuil said, “By opening our doors to young people and training them in practical skills, we are investing in their future.”

Thousands of young people have benefited from the programme

For SAPS, the benefits are tangible too. The in-house refurbishment and maintenance teams have saved millions of rand by reducing the need for external contractors, allowing limited budgets to stretch further in support of frontline policing. During a recent visit to SAPS stores where police vehicles are branded, the Western Cape MEC for Police Oversight and Community Safety, Ms Anroux Marais, commended the initiative.

Voskuil added, “Through their dedication, these young participants are not just restoring buildings and vehicles; they are restoring pride, purpose, and community trust.”

Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Support Services, Major General Preston Voskuil, has also praised the impact of the initiative. He said the initiative is more than maintenance; it is about hope and opportunity.

“The pride and professionalism they bring to their work are visible in every community service centre they touch,” elaborated Voskuil.