South Africa’s youth are the future of the nation, and in 2025, there are several powerful government programmes designed to empower young people with skills, jobs, and opportunities. These programmes focus on reducing youth unemployment, encouraging entrepreneurship, and helping young people gain education and work experience.
Here’s a list of the top youth empowerment programmes that every young South African should know about in 2025.
1. National Youth Development Agency (NYDA)
The NYDA is a major player in youth empowerment. It provides:
Business funding and mentorship to young entrepreneurs
Skills training in various trades and industries
Career guidance and counselling
Internships and job placement support
Why it matters: NYDA helps youth turn ideas into income and gain skills for the job market.
Learn More: NYDA Offices: Comprehensive Guide to Services Offered
2. Youth Employment Service (YES)
YES is a government initiative that partners with businesses to provide paid work experience and training for unemployed youth.
Participants get stipends while learning practical skills.
Offers a pathway to permanent jobs in participating companies.
Focuses on youth aged 18-35.
Why it matters: YES bridges the gap between education and real-world work.
3. Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
This programme offers temporary work on government projects, such as infrastructure and community services.
Provides stipends and skills training.
Helps youth gain experience in construction, environmental projects, and social services.
Benefits communities while empowering individuals.
Why it matters: EPWP is an entry point for youth to get work experience and earn income.
4. Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs)
SETAs provide learnerships, apprenticeships, and skills training across various sectors:
Combines classroom learning with on-the-job experience.
Leads to qualifications that boost employability.
Offers training in industries like construction, ICT, manufacturing, and services.
Why it matters: SETAs provide recognised skills needed for sustainable careers.
5. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
NSFAS helps youth access higher education by covering tuition fees and living costs for students from low-income families.
Offers loans and bursaries for university and college students.
Supports youth from LSM 1-7 communities.
Why it matters: Education is key to empowerment, and NSFAS makes it possible for many to study.
6. Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA)
SEFA supports young entrepreneurs with affordable loans and business advice.
Provides start-up capital for youth-owned small businesses.
Offers business development services and mentorship.
Why it matters: SEFA helps young people turn their business ideas into reality.
7. Digital Skills and Innovation Hubs
With the tech world growing fast, digital skills programmes help youth get into ICT and innovation.
Offers training in coding, digital marketing, and IT support.
Provides access to innovation hubs where young people collaborate and create.
Partners with private companies for mentorship and job placement.
Why it matters: Digital skills open doors to modern jobs and entrepreneurship.
How to Get Involved in These Youth Empowerment Programmes
Visit local offices like the NYDA or municipal centres.
Check websites of programmes like YES, NSFAS, SEFA.
Prepare your ID, proof of residence, and qualifications.
Apply early and attend workshops or info sessions.
Stay updated through social media and community groups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are youth empowerment programmes?
Youth empowerment programmes are government or community initiatives designed to provide young people with skills, education, work experience, financial support, and mentorship to help them build successful careers and businesses.
2. Who can apply for these youth empowerment programmes?
Most programmes target South African youth aged between 18 and 35 years, especially those who are unemployed or come from low-income communities (LSM 1-7). Specific age or eligibility requirements vary by programme.
3. How do I find out about available youth empowerment programmes?
You can visit local government offices such as the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), municipal centres, or check official government websites. Social media pages and community centres also regularly share updates.
4. Are youth empowerment programmes free?
Many programmes offer free training, workshops, and mentorship. Some may require an application or commitment to complete training. Programmes like YES also offer stipends or paid work experience to participants.
5. Can youth empowerment programmes help me start a business?
Yes! Programmes like those offered by the NYDA and SEFA provide funding, mentorship, and training specifically aimed at young entrepreneurs to help start and grow small businesses.
6. How do I apply for a youth empowerment programme?
Applications vary depending on the programme. Usually, you need to complete an online or paper application form, submit identification and proof of residence, and sometimes attend an interview or information session.
7. Do youth empowerment programmes help with finding jobs?
Yes, programmes like YES and learnerships supported by SETAs provide work experience, training, and sometimes direct job placements to help youth enter the workforce.
8. Is financial aid available for education through youth empowerment programmes?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a key government programme that provides loans and bursaries to eligible students to cover tuition and living expenses.
9. Are there programmes focused on digital skills?
Yes, with the growing importance of technology, many youth empowerment programmes now include digital skills training, coding courses, and access to innovation hubs to prepare youth for tech-related careers.
10. Where can I get help if I’m unsure which programme suits me?
You can visit NYDA offices or contact local municipal youth centres for career guidance, counselling, and advice on the best programmes for your goals and situation.
Final Thoughts
The South African government is serious about youth empowerment in 2025. These top programmes offer multiple pathways for young people to gain skills, find jobs, or start businesses. No matter where you come from, there is support available to help you succeed.
Take advantage of these opportunities—your future starts now!