If you’re an unemployed South African aged 18 to 34 with a Grade 12 qualification, the Eskom Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026 could be your gateway into the world of work. The 12-month programme offers valuable workplace experience in South Africa’s energy sector and is aimed at helping young people build skills and improve their chances of future employment.
Internship 2026: Eskom YES Programme Opens 12-Month Opportunities for Grade 12 Youth
Eskom has opened applications for its Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026, offering unemployed young South Africans an opportunity to gain meaningful workplace experience.
The programme forms part of the national Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, a public-private partnership led by the Presidency to help tackle youth unemployment.
Successful applicants will receive a 12-month work opportunity and be placed in Eskom operations, where they will support various administrative functions while developing practical workplace skills.
Applications for the current intake close on 21 July 2026, making this an opportunity that interested applicants should not delay pursuing.
Opportunity Overview
| Opportunity | Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation / Employer | Eskom |
| Programme Name | Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme |
| Opportunity Type | Internship / Workplace Experience Programme |
| Industry | Energy and Utilities |
| Primary Location | Medupi Power Station, Lephalale, Limpopo |
| Placement | Eskom operations across South Africa |
| Duration | 12 Months |
| Target Applicants | Unemployed South African youth aged 18–34 |
| Minimum Qualification | Grade 12 or equivalent |
| Salary / Stipend | Not disclosed |
Key Benefits
- 12 months of workplace experience
- Exposure to South Africa’s energy industry
- Administrative work experience
- Improved employability
- Opportunity to develop workplace skills
- Experience with one of South Africa’s largest employers
Internship Breakdown
The Eskom YES Programme is designed to provide unemployed young people with their first meaningful workplace experience.
Successful candidates will be employed on a 12-month contract and placed in Eskom operations across South Africa, where they will perform various administrative duties while gaining practical exposure to the workplace.
The programme supports the national goal of reducing youth unemployment by helping participants develop transferable workplace skills, professional conduct and valuable experience that can strengthen future job applications.
Although the programme does not guarantee permanent employment, it provides an important foundation for building a career.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 34 years old
- Have a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or equivalent qualification
- Be unemployed
- Not have been permanently employed by one employer for more than one continuous year
- Not be studying full-time during the year of employment
- Not have previously participated in or registered for the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme
- Successfully complete Eskom’s recruitment process
Stipend / Salary Details
Eskom has not disclosed the salary or monthly stipend for participants in this intake.
Applicants should monitor the official recruitment process for any remuneration updates.
Required Documents Checklist
The advert does not list supporting documents. Applicants should prepare:
- Certified South African ID document
- Updated CV
- Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or equivalent
- Proof of residence (if requested)
- Any additional documents requested during the recruitment process
How to Apply Step-by-Step
Step 1
Check that you meet all the eligibility requirements before applying.
Step 2
Prepare your updated CV and supporting documents.
Step 3
Complete the online application through the official Eskom recruitment portal.
Step 4
Submit your application before the closing date and monitor your email or phone for recruitment updates.
Application Method: Online through the official Eskom careers website.
Closing Date
Closing Date: 21 July 2026
Applications must be submitted before 21 July 2026.
With only a limited application period available, eligible applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid last-minute technical issues or missing the deadline.
Related Opportunity
Youthscope
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply?
South African citizens aged 18 to 34 who meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.
2. What qualifications are required?
Applicants must have a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or an equivalent qualification.
3. Is the opportunity open to unemployed youth?
Yes. The programme is specifically intended to provide work opportunities for unemployed South African youth.
4. Is there a stipend?
The advert does not disclose whether participants will receive a monthly stipend or salary.
5. How long does the programme last?
Successful applicants will receive a 12-month contract.
6. How do applicants apply?
Applications must be submitted online through the official Eskom recruitment platform.
Why You Should Apply
The Eskom YES Programme offers young people the opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience that many employers look for when recruiting.
Benefits include:
- First workplace experience
- Administrative skills development
- Professional work exposure
- Improved employability
- Better future job prospects
- Experience within South Africa’s energy sector
For many young people, this programme can serve as an important stepping stone towards long-term employment.
Career Pathways
Completing the YES Programme may help participants pursue careers in:
- Administration
- Office Support
- Human Resources
- Customer Service
- Operations Administration
- Utilities and Energy
- Government departments
- State-owned enterprises
- Private sector administration
The workplace experience gained may also strengthen future applications for learnerships, internships and permanent employment opportunities.
Expert Guidance (Mbalizuke Nkosi)
Career Advice from Mbalizuke Nkosi
Before applying, make sure your CV is current, easy to read and highlights any volunteer work, leadership roles or short courses you’ve completed. Even if you have little formal work experience, demonstrate your willingness to learn and your reliability.
Submit your application well before the closing date to avoid technical issues. Carefully check that you meet every eligibility requirement, especially the age limit, employment history and YES Programme participation criteria. Missing documents or incomplete applications can reduce your chances of being considered.
Workplace readiness begins with professionalism, punctuality and attention to detail—qualities that employers value from day one.
Disclaimer
Applicants should verify all programme details through the official Eskom recruitment channels before submitting an application.
Beware of scams requesting payment to secure employment or placement. Eskom does not charge application fees for legitimate recruitment opportunities.
The final recruitment, selection and placement decisions remain the responsibility of Eskom.
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to providing reliable information on opportunities, education, and career development. The platform serves students, graduates, job seekers, and young professionals by delivering accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand content.
Through informative and professionally curated content, YouthScope.co.za aims to equip young people with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their education and future careers.
For inquiries or support, please contact admin@youthscope.co.za.