2026 South Africa National Youth Service (NYS) Programme (Monthly Stipends)

The South Africa National Youth Service (NYS) Programme 2026 is an exciting, life-changing opportunity for young graduates across the country. It’s part of the government’s broader effort to tackle youth unemployment, strengthen skills development, and build strong, civic-minded young professionals ready to take on the future. read full requirement

If you’re ready to kick-start your career, don’t miss out on this great opportunity. Take the first step today  prepare your application, believe in your potential, and join a programme that can transform your future while making a real impact in South Africa’s development.

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At its heart, the DSTI  National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026 invites unemployed South African graduates aged 18–35 with qualifications in Science, Engineering, Technology, Journalism, Media Studies and related fields to join a structured 12-month placement starting in April 2026

This isn’t just another internship it’s a career accelerator. You’ll be placed in real organisational environments like schools, universities, science centres, conservation organisations, media outlets and research institutions, gaining hands-on experience that employers value. Whether you’re passionate about STEM fields or communication and media, the NYS Programme gives you a platform to apply your knowledge, grow professionally, and make a meaningful contribution to community development and national priorities

One of the biggest benefits of this programme is themonthly stipend participants receive — ranging from approximately R4 500 to R7 700, depending on your qualification level. This helps support your day-to-day living while you focus on building valuable skills and boosting your employability

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Benefit:

To support your daily needs, the programme provides a monthly stipend based on your qualification level:

Successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend to support their daily needs, tiered according to their qualification level:

National Diploma NQF Level 6 (R 4 500)

Bachelor’s degree / B. Tech NQF Level 7 (R 5 000)

Honours NQF Level 8 (R 5 500)

Master’s NQF Level 9 (R 6 500)

and PhD NQF Level 10 (R 7 700).

But the NYS Programme offers more than just financial support. It’s a chance to build your CV with real work experience, expand your professional network, and learn from mentors and experts in your chosen field. Many past participants have used experiences like this as a stepping stone to future jobs, postgraduate opportunities, and leadership roles

Eligibility;

• A relevant tertiary qualification e.g. Science or Technology, Journalism and Media Studies, Communications
• Computer literacy
• Self-motivation and ability to work under pressure
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Writing and/or radio and television skills
• Good analytical and interpersonal skills

Required Documents:

• Covering letter (explaining your motivation).
• Comprehensive CV.
• Certified copies of ID and Qualifications (or academic transcript/letter of completion).

How to apply

To apply, you’ll need a cover letter, CV, certified copies of your ID and qualifications (or a letter of completion), and your contact details. Applications are submitted online through the official portal before the deadline of 31 January 2026

2026 South Africa National Youth Service (NYS) Programme