Youth Employment Service (YES) 2026 | Eskom Opportunities for South African Youth
South Africa’s youth unemployment challenge remains one of the most pressing socio-economic issues in the country. In response, the Youth Employment Service (YES) continues to play a critical role in creating pathways into the world of work for young people who are eager to gain experience but lack opportunities. For 2026, Eskom YES Programme 2026 Now Open, offering qualifying youth the chance to gain practical work experience, develop employability skills, and improve their long-term career prospects.
What Is the Eskom YES Programme 2026?
Youth Employment Service Explained
The Youth Employment Service (YES) is a national initiative designed to tackle youth unemployment by connecting young people with 12-month work experience opportunities across public and private sector organisations. The programme is supported at the highest levels of government and implemented in partnership with leading employers.
Eskom’s participation in the YES Programme reflects its commitment to skills development, youth empowerment, and national economic growth. Through this initiative, successful applicants are placed in structured roles where they can gain exposure to real workplace environments within the electricity, energy, and related support sectors.
Eskom YES Programme 2026: Key Overview
Programme Summary
- Programme Name: Eskom YES (Youth Employment Service) Programme 2026
- Contract Type: Fixed-term contract
- Industry: Electricity, Energy & Water Supply
- Target Group: Unemployed South African youth
- Remuneration: Market-related stipend
- Location: Varies by placement (including George, Western Cape)
- Closing Date: 12 February 2026
Who Should Apply for the Eskom YES Programme 2026?
Eligibility Criteria for Youth Applicants
To ensure fairness and impact, the Eskom YES Programme is aimed at youth who meet specific criteria. While requirements may vary slightly by placement, applicants generally must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be between 18 and 34 years old
- Be currently unemployed
- Not have participated in a YES Programme previously
- Have completed Grade 12 (Matric) or relevant post-school qualifications (depending on role)
- Be willing to commit to a 12-month work experience programme
Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee placement, as Eskom follows a competitive and transparent selection process.
Related Opportunities 2026
- Funding Bursaries
- Youth Opportunities
- Internship Programme
- Learnership Programme
- Online Courses
- Government Education Updates
Why the Eskom YES Programme Matters in 2026
Addressing Youth Unemployment with Real Experience
One of the biggest barriers facing young job seekers is the lack of work experience. The Eskom YES Programme directly addresses this challenge by providing:
- Hands-on workplace exposure
- Structured mentoring and supervision
- Practical skills aligned with industry needs
- Improved employability after programme completion
Participants leave the programme with verifiable work experience, which significantly improves their chances of securing future employment or further training opportunities.
Skills and Experience You Can Gain Through Eskom YES
Workplace Skills Development
Participants in the Eskom YES Programme 2026 may be exposed to:
- Administrative and operational support roles
- Supply chain and logistics environments
- Customer service and technical support functions
- Workplace ethics, teamwork, and communication skills
- Health, safety, and compliance standards
These skills are transferable and valuable across multiple sectors, not only within Eskom.
Eskom YES Programme 2026 Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online
Applying for the Eskom YES Programme is done online only through the official Eskom careers platform. Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official Eskom YES Programme application page
- Create an online profile or log in if you already have one
- Complete all required personal and educational information
- Upload certified supporting documents where requested
- Review your application for accuracy
- Submit your application before the closing date
Official Application Link: https://eskomcareers.ci.hr/applicant/index.php?controller=Listings&method=view&listingid=da30bbfa-d776-40d9-9af1-c845aeef07af
Applications submitted after 12 February 2026 will not be considered.
Important Documents to Prepare Before Applying
What You May Need
Applicants are advised to prepare the following documents in advance:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Updated CV
- Certified Matric certificate or highest qualification
- Proof of address (if required)
Having these documents ready helps avoid delays during the online application process.
What Happens After You Apply?
Selection and Placement Process
After the closing date, Eskom will review all applications and shortlist candidates based on programme requirements and available placements. Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for:
- Verification of information
- Further assessments or interviews
- Placement confirmation
Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates may be contacted.
Is the Eskom YES Programme Paid?
Stipend and Benefits
Yes. Participants in the Eskom YES Programme receive a market-related stipend for the duration of the fixed-term contract. While the programme does not guarantee permanent employment, it provides:
- Financial support during the programme
- Structured work experience
- Improved employability after completion
How the Eskom YES Programme Builds Long-Term Careers
Beyond the 12 Months
Many YES Programme participants across South Africa use the experience gained to:
- Secure entry-level employment
- Apply for internships or learnerships
- Pursue further education or training
- Build professional references and networks
The programme is widely recognised by employers as a credible stepping stone into the labour market.
Avoiding Scams: Important Notice to Applicants
Eskom does not charge any fees to apply for the YES Programme. All applications must be submitted through the official Eskom careers website. Applicants should be cautious of:
- Social media pages requesting payment
- WhatsApp messages offering guaranteed placement
- Unofficial links claiming to represent Eskom
Always rely on verified Eskom platforms.
Eskom YES Programme 2026: Key Dates to Remember
Important Deadline
- Applications Open: Currently open
- Closing Date: 12 February 2026
Applying early is strongly recommended to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Apply for Eskom YES 2026
The Eskom YES Programme 2026 represents a meaningful opportunity for young South Africans to gain work experience, develop skills, and take their first steps into the formal economy. In a competitive job market, programmes like YES offer more than just temporary work—they provide experience, confidence, and career direction.
If you meet the requirements and are serious about building your future, this programme is worth applying for before the deadline.
