DSTI National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026 Now Open: Stipends Up to R7 700 for South African Graduates
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), in partnership with the National Research Foundation’s South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF–SAASTA), has officially opened applications for the National Youth Service (NYS) Graduate Programme 2026. This 12-month national initiative provides unemployed graduates across South Africa with an opportunity to gain work experience, serve communities, and contribute to science and technology engagement efforts nationwide.
National Youth Service (NYS) Graduate Programme 2026
With the programme scheduled to begin in April 2026 and offering monthly stipends ranging from R4 500 to R7 700, thousands of young graduates stand to benefit from practical, career-building exposure in STEM, media and public engagement sectors. Applications must be submitted online by 31 January 2026.
Programme Overview
Opportunity Name: DSTI – National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026
Eligibility: Unemployed South African graduates aged 18–35
Fields of Study:
- Science
- Engineering
- Technology
- Journalism
- Media Studies
- Communication Studies
Duration: 12 months
Start Date: April 2026
Closing Date: 31 January 2026
Application Link: https://seims.dsi.gov.za/nys/landing
The NYS Graduate Programme is designed to address one of South Africa’s biggest challenges: graduates who have qualifications but lack the workplace experience required to enter the job market. Through structured placements and practical mentorship, the programme provides participants with both technical and community-service experience.
Where Graduates Will Be Deployed
Successful applicants may be placed in a wide range of institutions across the country, including:
- Science centres and museums
- Schools and TVET colleges
- Universities
- Biodiversity and conservation organisations
- Botanical and zoological gardens
- Non-profit science organisations
- Science councils
- Media outlets and community media for journalism graduates
The aim is to expose participants to real working environments while supporting national science engagement objectives.
Why the DSTI National Youth Service Programme Matters
In South Africa, thousands of graduates complete their studies every year but struggle to secure employment due to limited experience, lack of exposure to industry networks or incomplete career development pathways.
The DSTI–NYS Programme provides a practical solution by offering:
1. Hands-On Work Experience
Participants work full-time in real institutions that contribute to science, education, conservation or media.
2. Professional Development
Graduates build a strong CV, gain technical experience, and grow their confidence in a structured learning environment.
3. National Service and Community Impact
The programme combines service and education, allowing graduates to take part in advancing scientific literacy and public engagement.
4. Monthly Financial Support
Graduates receive a stipend aligned with their highest qualification level.
This approach makes the programme ideal for young people who want experience that aligns with national development goals while earning an income.
Monthly Stipend Structure
Stipends are allocated according to the National Qualifications Framework (NQF):
- NQF 6 (National Diploma): R4 500 per month
- NQF 7 (Bachelor’s Degree / BTech): R5 000 per month
- NQF 8 (Honours): R5 500 per month
- NQF 9 (Master’s): R6 500 per month
- NQF 10 (PhD): R7 700 per month
This structured stipend system ensures fair compensation based on academic achievement.
About the Organisations Behind the Programme
Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI)
DSTI is the government department responsible for shaping South Africa’s science and innovation agenda. The department focuses on growing a knowledge-based economy, expanding research capacity and improving public understanding of science.
NRF–SAASTA (South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement)
SAASTA is a business unit of the National Research Foundation that specialises in:
- Science communication and outreach
- STEM education and youth development
- Science engagement programmes
Through the NYS Graduate Programme, DSTI and SAASTA work together to strengthen South Africa’s science communication ecosystem while empowering youth.
Who Should Apply? — Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the NYS Graduate Programme 2026, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be 18–35 years old
- Be unemployed
- Have a completed qualification in:
- Science
- Engineering
- Technology
- Journalism
- Media or Communication Studies
Graduates can come from universities, universities of technology or TVET colleges (depending on NQF level).
Required Application Documents
Applicants must upload clear and certified copies of the following:
- Cover letter explaining interest in the programme
- Comprehensive CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copies of qualification certificate(s) or academic transcripts
- Letter of completion if certificate is not yet issued
- Updated email and cellphone contact details
All documents must be clearly scanned, recent and properly labelled.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to submit your application:
Step 1: Visit the application portal
Application Link: https://seims.dsi.gov.za/nys/landing
Step 2: Register or login
- Create a new account if you are a first-time applicant
- Log in using your existing profile if previously registered
Step 3: Complete the online form
Fill in all personal, academic and background information.
Step 4: Upload all required documents
Ensure each file is attached and certified.
Step 5: Review your application
Confirm that all details are correct and complete.
Step 6: Submit before the closing date
Deadline: 31 January 2026
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Contact Details for Enquiries
Contact Person: Mr Macdonald Kapu
Telephone: 012 392 9300
Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need work experience to apply?
No. The programme is designed specifically for unemployed graduates without experience.
2. Will I receive a monthly salary?
You will receive a stipend based on your NQF level, not a full salary.
3. Can I apply if I am completing my qualification this year?
Yes. You may apply with a letter of completion if your certificate is not yet issued.
4. Where will I be placed?
Placement is based on availability and relevance to your qualification. You may be placed at schools, science centres, universities, conservation sites, councils or media organisations.
5. How many graduates will be accepted?
The number varies annually and depends on institutional capacity and programme funding.
Final Thoughts
The DSTI – National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for young South Africans seeking career exposure, professional development and community service experience. With a structured learning environment, national deployment opportunities and monthly stipends up to R7 700, the programme offers a meaningful step forward for graduates looking to build a career in science, technology, media or public engagement.
