Youth unemployment continues to be a serious concern in South Africa, with many young people struggling to secure jobs after school or college. To address this, the government has introduced a range of programmes aimed at building skills, offering work experience, and opening up job opportunities for youth—especially for those who face economic or social challenges.
These government-backed initiatives cover everything from basic job readiness and training to financial support for higher education. Programmes such as the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention, the SA Youth Platform, NYDA programmes, and learnerships give young people a stepping stone into the working world. They focus on helping youth gain real work experience, improve their skills, and grow their confidence to pursue careers or start businesses.
Whether you’re looking to continue your education, enter the job market, or gain hands-on experience through internships or community projects, there are a variety of free or low-cost resources available. From rural to urban areas, these initiatives are making a positive impact by helping young South Africans build better futures for themselves and their communities.
Government Youth Employment Programmes in South Africa
1. Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI)
The Presidential Youth Employment Intervention is South Africa’s flagship effort to reduce youth unemployment. It connects various government departments and partners to streamline services for young people, focusing on bridging the gap between learning and earning. It enhances current employment programmes and removes barriers that make it hard for youth to access opportunities.
Highlight – Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI): Over 320,000 young South Africans were placed in schools as Education or General School Assistants. These short-term roles provide meaningful work experience and skill development that can lead to longer-term employment opportunities.
2. National Pathway Management Network & SA Youth Platform
The National Pathway Management Network brings together several services into one digital space to help young people access jobs, training, and support. One of its key platforms, SAYouth.mobi, allows users to:
- Create profiles
- Apply for jobs, internships, and bursaries
- Access volunteer opportunities
This platform was created in partnership with groups like Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA). It’s completely free and designed to use very little mobile data, making it more accessible to youth in areas with limited internet.
3. National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) Programmes
The NYDA plays a key role in empowering youth by running various development programmes, including:
- Job Preparedness & Placement – Get help with CV writing, interview skills, and job matching.
- Scholarships & Bursaries – Financial support for academically strong students.
- YouthBuild Programme – For those who didn’t complete school but want to gain work-related skills.
- Second-Chance Programmes – Helping matriculants complete their schooling.
- Career Guidance – Support to help youth explore career paths and plan their futures.
National Youth Service Programme (NYSP): Offers practical work experience through community service for youth who are not working or studying.
4. Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
The EPWP creates short-term job opportunities through community projects like:
- Road maintenance
- Public cleaning
- Infrastructure development
These jobs provide real-life work experience and income while allowing youth to make a difference in their communities.
5. National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC)
This programme targets young people in rural communities by giving them training and work opportunities close to home. It aims to build skills and create jobs while improving local infrastructure and services.
6. Learnerships and Internships
SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities) offer learnerships and internships in many fields. These combine practical work with formal training, giving youth the qualifications and skills needed for long-term employment.
7. Youth Employment Service (YES)
The YES programme is a collaboration between government and private businesses. It offers unemployed youth a 12-month paid job placement, giving them real workplace experience.
- Businesses that hire youth through YES receive government incentives.
- The aim is to help youth build experience and find full-time jobs.
8. Financial Support for Education
To make higher education more accessible, the government offers financial aid through:
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) – Covers tuition and other study-related costs for qualifying students.
- Funza Lushaka Bursaries – Specifically for those studying to become teachers.
These funding options help remove the financial barriers to college or university, giving more youth the chance to succeed.
How to Get Started
Young South Africans can explore these opportunities in the following ways:
- Visit: www.SAYouth.mobi to register and start applying for jobs, internships, or bursaries.
- Go to local offices: NYDA offices or Department of Employment and Labour centres provide in-person support.
- Check locally: Community centres or provincial offices often have information on nearby programmes.
The South African government is working hard to create real opportunities for its youth. Through training, work experience, and educational support, these programmes aim to build a brighter future for young people across the country. If you’re a young job seeker, student, or someone looking for your next step—don’t wait. Explore these free resources and take your first step toward a better tomorrow.
