Company: NYDA / SAYouth
Industry: Public Sector / Youth Development
Job Category: Internship / Community Service Programme
Location: Nationwide, South Africa
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (6–9 Months)
Remuneration: R23.19 per hour (16 hours per week)
EE Position: Yes (Youth-Focused)
Closing Date: Not specified
Introduction
The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), in partnership with SAYouth under the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI), invites unemployed South African youth to apply for Phase IV of the National Youth Service (NYS) Programme. This transformative public employment initiative empowers young people through hands-on community service, practical work experience, and personal development training. Phase IV is now rolling out nationally, offering thousands of young South Africans the opportunity to become active contributors to their communities while preparing for long-term employment.
If you’re between the ages of 18 and 35, currently unemployed, and looking for a structured platform to grow professionally and personally, the NYS Programme could be your stepping stone to a better future. Participants not only receive a monthly stipend but also gain critical workplace exposure, mentorship, and life-changing skills that improve employability across various sectors.
Job Description
The NYS Phase IV programme is designed to deliver nationwide community impact while uplifting youth from disadvantaged backgrounds. Successful candidates will be placed in community service roles aligned with key public interest areas. Participants will be assigned projects that promote positive social change and build valuable work-readiness competencies.
Opportunities in this phase include:
- Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre assistance
- Environmental awareness and clean-up campaigns
- Food security and community gardening support
- Safety and community policing support roles
- Clinic-based health promotion activities
- Education assistance in schools and local libraries
Participants are expected to work 16 hours per week, with a monthly stipend based on R23.19 per hour. The contract duration ranges between 6 to 9 months depending on the community project and location.
The programme also includes:
- Career guidance and personal development sessions
- Work-readiness and interview preparation training
- Mentorship support and progress monitoring
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate for the NYS Phase IV programme is a youth who is passionate about community upliftment, eager to learn, and committed to personal and professional development. This opportunity is open to youth from all nine provinces, with preference given to those living in areas where community projects are already in place.
You should consider applying if you:
- Are a South African citizen aged between 18 and 35 years
- Are currently unemployed and not enrolled in any form of education or training
- Reside in an area where NYS Phase IV projects are active
- Have a strong interest in community-based work and public service
Although a Matric certificate is not required, it may be beneficial for certain roles within the programme.
Role Responsibility
Participants will be responsible for:
- Participating in assigned community projects based on local needs
- Completing a minimum of 16 hours of service per week
- Attending all scheduled training and development sessions
- Reporting to local coordinators and providing feedback on project progress
- Representing the NYDA and SAYouth programme with professionalism and commitment
Additional responsibilities may vary depending on the specific focus area, such as assisting teachers in classrooms, supporting clinic health campaigns, or maintaining public spaces through clean-up efforts.
Skills and Attributes
This opportunity is ideal for youth looking to build foundational employability skills while giving back to their community. Participants will develop:
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Teamwork and collaboration abilities
- Time management and accountability
- Problem-solving and community engagement techniques
- Leadership and confidence-building
Desirable attributes include:
- Enthusiasm and a strong work ethic
- Willingness to learn and adapt
- Commitment to completing the programme
- Basic understanding of local community needs
- A passion for helping others and making a difference
Position Summary
The NYDA/SAYouth National Youth Service Programme Phase IV offers an incredible opportunity for unemployed youth to gain real-life experience, enhance their CVs, and prepare for future employment. With a national footprint and a focus on impactful community work, this initiative creates a pathway to personal growth, social change, and economic participation.
The programme is part of a broader strategy under the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI) aimed at tackling youth unemployment while addressing community development challenges across South Africa. Through structured training, hands-on service, and career readiness support, NYS Phase IV offers a holistic approach to youth empowerment.
How to Apply for NYS Phase IV
Applications are processed online via the SAYouth platform. Follow the steps below to apply:
- Visit https://sayouth.mobi
- Register or log in using your ID number and contact details
- Complete your profile, ensuring your personal and location information is accurate
- Search for “NYS Phase IV” or “Community Service” in the job search bar
- Apply for roles in your area that match your interests
No documents, CVs, or application fees are required. The process is entirely free.
Support Services
If you need help during the application process, you can access support via:
- Toll-Free Helpline: 0800 72 72 72 (Mon to Fri, 9:00 to 16:30)
- WhatsApp Chat Support: Available 24/7 – simply send “Hi”
- NYDA Offices: Visit your nearest branch for in-person assistance
Take charge of your future by participating in a programme that values your potential, supports your growth, and invests in your community. This is more than a job – it’s a chance to transform your life and the lives of others.
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