Unemployed young people living in or near Msukaligwa Local Municipality (Ermelo) now have access to a valuable career-building opportunity in the construction and infrastructure sector.

The National Youth Service (NYS) Programme, funded through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), is recruiting 30 participants for a structured training and workplace experience programme linked to the construction of the Ermelo Labour Centre.

This initiative offers practical skills, accredited training, workplace exposure, and financial support, making it one of the strongest entry-level pathways currently available for youth interested in technical trades and the built environment sector.

Quick Overview

• Programme Name: National Youth Service (NYS) Technical Training & Work-Integrated Learning Programme
• Project: Construction of Ermelo Labour Centre
• Total Intake: 30 Participants
• Programme Duration: 9 to 12 Months
• Qualification: Learnership in Building and Civil Construction
• NQF Level: Level 3
• SAQA ID: 65409
• Daily Stipend: R150 (includes transport allowance)
• Location: Msukaligwa Local Municipality, Ermelo
• Age Requirement: 18 to 35 years
• Closing Date: 30 April 2026

What the Programme Offers

Successful applicants will benefit from:

• Practical construction skills training
• Accredited qualification opportunities
• Workplace experience on a real project
• Daily stipend support
• Exit assistance after completion
• Starter tools for selected participants

Most importantly, it creates a practical stepping-stone into South Africa’s construction industry, which remains one of the most accessible employment sectors for youth.

Two Training Streams Available

The programme is divided into two separate pathways depending on your qualifications and current status.

Part A: Learnership Programme (15 Participants)

This stream is ideal for unemployed youth who want formal training in construction trades.

Qualification Details

• Learnership: Building and Civil Construction
• NQF Level: 3
• SAQA ID: 65409
• Duration: 12 Months

Training Includes

• Civil works
• Bricklaying
• Carpentry
• Painting
• Plastering
• Paving
• General construction techniques

Career Opportunities After Completion

This pathway may help you enter roles such as:

• Construction assistant
• Site worker
• Bricklaying trainee
• Carpentry trainee
• Paving support worker

It can also lead to future artisan training opportunities.

Part B: Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Placement (15 Participants)

This stream is designed for students who have completed theory studies and still need workplace experience to graduate.

Eligible Students

Applicants from:

• Universities
• Universities of Technology
• TVET Colleges

Relevant Study Fields

• Civil Engineering
• Building Studies
• National Diploma Civil Engineering

Duration

• 12 months workplace placement

Applicants must provide a letter from their institution confirming the need for in-service training.

This is especially useful because many students struggle to secure WIL placements.

Stipend Provided

Participants will receive:

R150 per day

This includes:

• Attendance support
• Transport allowance
• Practical training participation support

While not permanent employment, it is a funded development opportunity with recognised outcomes.

Who Should Apply?

You should consider applying if you are:

• Between 18 and 35 years old
• Unemployed
• Living in Msukaligwa Local Municipality
• Interested in construction or technical work
• Available for full-time participation
• Ready to commit for 9 to 12 months

Preference will be given to youth living close to the project site.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet one of the following:

• Have Grade 12 qualification
  or
• Be a TVET student needing workplace training
• Be a university student requiring WIL placement

Applicants must also:

• Have a valid South African ID
• Be unemployed
• Not be studying currently (except WIL applicants)
• Be available immediately if selected

Required Documents

Prepare the following:

• Updated CV
• Completed application form
• Certified ID copy
• Certified qualification copies
• Municipal proof of residence

Additional for WIL Applicants

• Letter from institution confirming need for in-service training

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Where to Collect Application Forms

Forms are available at:

Msukaligwa Local Municipality

Ermelo

Department of Employment and Labour

14 Declerck Street
Ermelo

Where to Submit Applications

Applications must be submitted to:

Department of Employment and Labour (DOEL) Ermelo

Selection Targets

The programme follows EPWP inclusion targets:

• 85% previously disadvantaged backgrounds
• 50% women participation
• 1% persons with disabilities
• 1% ex-offenders

These targets help improve fair access to opportunities.

Important Notes

Applicants should understand that this programme:

• Is not permanent employment
• Is a structured training opportunity
• Combines classroom and practical learning
• Supports future employability
• Requires immediate availability after selection

If you are not contacted within two weeks after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.

You can also Check:

• Internships
• Bursaries
• Learnerships
• Jobs for Youth
• Guides
• Apprenticeships
• Students News
• Scholarships
• Fellowships

Tips to Improve Your Application

• Certify documents early
• Keep your CV simple and clear
• Submit proof of residence
• Apply before the deadline
• Highlight any practical skills or interest in construction

Because only 30 places are available, early application is important.

Final Thoughts

The NYS Ermelo Programme 2026 is an excellent opportunity for unemployed youth and students seeking practical experience in construction, infrastructure, and technical trades. With a daily stipend, accredited training, and hands-on workplace exposure, it can become a strong foundation for future employment.

If you qualify, make sure to apply before 30 April 2026.

Youth admin

Mbalizuke Nkosi

Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to sharing opportunities, education updates, and career development information. The editorial team focuses on producing clear, reliable, and easy-to-understand content for students, job seekers, and young professionals.

With a strong interest in youth empowerment, skills development, and access to opportunities, Youth Admin curates and publishes content covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, and study guides across South Africa.

The aim of Mbalizuke Nkosi is to simplify important information and make it accessible to young people who are building their future careers.