Jobseekers in Cape Town can now travel free to interviews. They can do so, by using Golden Arrow Bus Services. This is part of the Getting YOU to Work pilot initiative. The programme was officially launched yesterday by Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde and Provincial MEC of Mobility, Ricardo Mackenzie.

Jobseekers in Cape Town can now travel free to interviews

The Jobseeker transport voucher initiative aims to remove transport barriers and enable access to job opportunities for unemployed jobseekers. It is being piloted in partnership with the private sector.

The free travel pass will be offered to candidates, who need to go for interviews, by registered employers. The vouchers can be used on any GABS bus, on Mondays to Fridays, from 8 am to 4 pm.

Those who live far away from economic hubs

Premier Winde and MEC Mackenzie yesterday joined the very first jobseekers, who made use of the Getting YOU to Work voucher. They went to attend an interview in Athlone.

One of the candidates, Latita Memani, a 20-year-old student from Cape Town said, “I managed to get to the interview today without spending money and without borrowing money from my parents. Overall, this jobseeker voucher is an excellent idea that will help many youth to get employed, become independent, and be successful in life.”

Premier Winde says one of the biggest hurdles is the cost of transport, especially for those who live far away from economic hubs.

He says this campaign will provide tangible support to the many people who are actively looking for work.

Premier Winde emphasised the importance of this project, saying, “Getting YOU to Work is part of the WCG’s Growth 4 Jobs Strategy. We are doing everything we can to grow the economy, create jobs and tackle unemployment, which currently stands at 20%. We have spoken to people who do not have work so that we understand the challenges they face and where the provincial government can support them.”

Entrepreneurs and businesses to register

He has also encouraged entrepreneurs and businesses to register to take part in the programme. The premier said by making the travel voucher available to jobseekers, employers can have their pick of the very best candidates, the province has to offer.

The Western Cape Mobility MEC Ricardo Mackenzie added, “Unemployed job seekers simply don’t have money for transport, which makes it a significant struggle to look for work and attend interviews. The free travel voucher that we launched today removes this initial barrier, with 12 free trips included in the voucher, helping jobseekers find the work they so desperately need.”

Getting YOU to Work

Getting YOU to Work is being piloted in Cape Town and is available to job seekers who have secured an interview with a participating employer. Winde and MacKenzie say employers can sign up to participate on the online portal or visit their website for information.

To find out about GABS routes and how to use the service, phone 0800 65 64 63 (toll-free) or visit the GABS website.