Thousands of local youth took the opportunity to learn about potential careers in the City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Directorate.
With information tables by Disaster Risk Management (DRM), Traffic Services, Fire and Rescue Services, Metro Police, Law Enforcement, The City’s 107 call centre and specialised units such as EPIC, youth could learn more about the qualifying criteria and what it required to have a career in the City’s enforcement agencies.
Live demonstrations included an arrest by the Metro Police’s tactical unit, drug, copper and firearm detection by the K9 Unit, a baby delivery simulation by the Fire and Rescue Services, equipment – which included rescue water vessels, bikes and vehicles and technology.
The event started at 09:00 and closed at 16:00, with locals forming long queues outside the venue from 06:00. For control purposes, visitors entered in limited numbers.
Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith says the turnout was humbling and reflected the dire need for employment.
“I wish I had 5 000 jobs to make available immediately, but like with many other things, we work within tight constraints. But, we do want the best candidates. Doing roadshows like these is to help people understand what the opportunities are. Getting the best possible candidates helps us get the best possible service to the communities,” he says.
While one of the criteria is to have a matric certificate, Smith offered advice to hopefuls who do not have this to join the City’s volunteer corps – including DRM and the Law Enforcement Auxiliary programme, where the City can assist hopefuls in obtaining their required qualifications.
On the decision to host the expo in Mitchells Plain, Smith says: “Often people in the corners of the City that are not easily accessible, suffer a lack of opportunity. They are not always plugged into the opportunities that are available.”
The expo aimed to introduce the youth to potential careers they may not have previously considered or knew about.
Youth travelled from all over the city.
Nosipho Khumalo from Langa says she heard about it from a local Facebook group.
“I waited in the line for quite a while, but I have been looking for what to do next after matric. I have not been able to study. I am looking at joining traffic because I heard more about what they do and it is interesting working with schools and at licensing centres,” she says.
Lyle Solomons from Hanover Park joined his brother and his classmates.
“I am 23 and not working. I wanted to see if this was an option for me. We waited a long time, but I am glad we came,” he says.
Large school groups also joined the event.
Ward 76 councillor Avron Plaatjies says the expo was a huge success, giving those attending a panoramic understanding of what it entails.
“I am overwhelmed with the response to our first safety and security expo.”
