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Eskom invites unemployed South African youth to apply for the YES4YOUTH Learning Programme 2025 October intake. Gain 12 months of valuable work experience in the energy sector. Apply before 6 October 2025.
Introduction
Youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges in South Africa. Many young people complete school or tertiary studies only to face limited opportunities in the job market. To bridge this gap, government, business, and civil society have joined forces to create the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative.
For 2025, Eskom, South Africa’s leading energy provider, is once again participating in this national programme. The Eskom YES4YOUTH Learning Programme 2025 October intake offers unemployed youth the chance to gain meaningful workplace experience and kickstart their careers in one of the country’s most important industries.
If you are between the ages of 18 and 34, unemployed, and eager to gain exposure in the energy sector, this opportunity could be your stepping stone to future success.
About the YES4YOUTH Initiative
The Youth Employment Service (YES) is a flagship programme launched under the leadership of the Presidency. It is a public–private collaboration designed to give young people their first chance at employment.
Key objectives of YES include:
- Providing 12 months of structured work experience to unemployed youth.
- Addressing South Africa’s high youth unemployment rate.
- Equipping participants with practical skills to improve employability.
- Creating pathways to long-term employment or further learning opportunities.
Since its inception, YES has created thousands of work opportunities, and Eskom’s involvement strengthens the programme’s impact by opening doors within the energy and infrastructure sector.
Why Eskom?
Eskom is more than just South Africa’s power utility. It is one of the country’s largest employers, operating across all nine provinces with a diverse range of technical, engineering, and administrative functions.
By joining the Eskom YES4YOUTH Learning Programme, participants will benefit from:
Useful Links:
- Exposure to a high-impact industry critical to South Africa’s economy.
- Learning opportunities across various operational divisions.
- The chance to contribute to the mission of delivering reliable energy to millions of South Africans.
- A supportive environment that values integrity, professionalism, and customer focus.
Programme Overview
- Programme name: Eskom YES4YOUTH Learning Programme 2025 October
- Contract duration: 12 months fixed-term
- Location: Across Eskom operations in South Africa
- Application closing date: 6 October 2025
Successful applicants will be placed within different Eskom operations depending on the company’s requirements. While this is not a permanent role, the experience gained during the 12-month period will add significant value to each participant’s career prospects.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be between 18 and 34 years old.
- Hold Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification.
- A post-matric certificate or programme will be advantageous.
Selection Criteria
To ensure opportunities are allocated fairly and reach those who need them most, candidates must also meet the following conditions:
- Should not have been employed permanently with a single employer for more than one year.
- Should not be studying full time during the year of employment.
- Should not have participated or registered on the YES initiative before.
Applicants who meet these requirements will go through Eskom’s recruitment process, which may include assessments, interviews, and background checks.
Skills and Competencies
While the programme is designed for young people with little to no prior work experience, Eskom looks for certain qualities and competencies that can make participants successful:
Behavioral Competencies
- Integrity: Being honest, ethical, and trustworthy in all tasks.
- Professionalism: Demonstrating accountability and reliability in the workplace.
- Customer focus: Keeping service excellence at the heart of all responsibilities.
Attributes
While no prior workplace attributes are required, successful candidates are expected to show:
- A willingness to learn.
- Dedication to completing the 12-month contract.
- Commitment to workplace rules and safety standards.
Key Responsibilities
YES participants at Eskom will contribute to different operations depending on placement. Responsibilities may include administrative, technical, or support tasks within divisions such as generation, transmission, and distribution.
Some typical responsibilities may include:
- Assisting teams with day-to-day operational activities.
- Supporting departmental projects.
- Learning and applying industry-relevant skills.
- Contributing to Eskom’s overall goal of reliable energy supply.
Importantly, participants will always work under supervision and be provided with guidance to ensure compliance with Eskom’s high standards of safety, professionalism, and efficiency.
Why This Programme Matters
The Eskom YES4YOUTH Learning Programme is not just about short-term experience; it is about building a foundation for the future.
Addressing Youth Unemployment
By participating, young people take their first step into the workplace, gaining exposure that many employers require when considering candidates for permanent roles.
Building Confidence and Skills
The programme equips participants with practical knowledge, workplace readiness, and employability skills.
Industry Relevance
Energy and infrastructure are critical sectors in South Africa. Gaining experience in this space positions participants for opportunities in engineering, technical support, administration, and related industries.
Benefits of the Programme
While the YES4YOUTH opportunity is not a permanent job, participants stand to gain:
- 12 months of workplace experience at one of South Africa’s largest organisations.
- A monthly stipend to cover basic living costs.
- Exposure to professional workplace culture.
- Improved employability and access to future career opportunities.
- The chance to network with professionals across Eskom’s divisions.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit their applications through the official Eskom careers portal before the deadline.
Application link:
Application Steps:
- Visit the application link provided.
- Create a profile on Eskom’s career portal (if you don’t already have one).
- Upload a comprehensive CV.
- Attach certified copies of your ID and qualifications.
- Submit before 6 October 2025.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure your CV is well-structured and highlights your education and any relevant skills.
- Double-check that you meet all eligibility requirements.
- Submit all required documents in the correct format.
- Apply early to avoid last-minute system issues or delays.
Closing Date Reminder
The closing date for the Eskom YES4YOUTH Learning Programme 2025 October is 6 October 2025. Applications received after this date may not be considered.
Career Growth Beyond the Programme
While the YES programme itself lasts 12 months, the experience gained often leads to further opportunities. Past YES participants have moved on to:
- Permanent employment in industries such as energy, administration, and technical support.
- Enrolling in further studies at universities or TVET colleges.
- Securing roles in other private or public sector organisations by leveraging their experience at Eskom.
This makes the programme a springboard to long-term career success.
Conclusion
The Eskom YES4YOUTH Learning Programme 2025 October intake is a powerful opportunity for unemployed South African youth to step into the world of work, gain meaningful experience, and open doors to future employment. With Eskom’s national footprint and strong role in South Africa’s development, participants will not only grow personally but also contribute to the broader mission of powering the nation.
If you are between 18 and 34 years old, unemployed, and eager to start your career journey, this is your chance. Don’t delay—apply before 6 October 2025 and take your first step into the energy sector with Eskom.
