Are you ready to take your first step towards a brighter future? The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) is excited to announce that applications for Phase Three of the NYDA National Youth Service Programme (NYS) are now open! This programme offers young South Africans aged 18 to 35 a unique opportunity to earn an income while making a difference in their communities.

The NYDA National Youth Service Programme is part of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, which has already created over 65,000 community service opportunities over the past three years.

What is the NYDA National Youth Service Programme?

The NYDA National Youth Service Programme is designed to give young people meaningful work experience that boosts their confidence, skills, and employability. At the same time, it encourages youth to become active and empowered citizens who contribute to their communities.

Since its inception, over 65,000 youth have participated in the programme, with 15,696 successfully transitioning into long-term employment, self-employment, or further education. Now, Phase Three brings even more opportunities for youth to make a real impact while securing their future.

Why You Should Apply

Participating in the NYDA National Youth Service Programme offers numerous benefits:

  • Earn an income: While contributing to your community, you’ll receive financial compensation for your work.
  • Boost your employability: Gain hands-on experience, learn new skills, and grow through mentorship and training.
  • Make a difference: Help improve the quality of life in marginalized communities through impactful service activities.
  • Open pathways to long-term success: Whether it’s a job, further education, or starting your own business, the NYS Programme can be a stepping stone to a brighter future.

What Opportunities Are Available?

The NYDA has partnered with 10 organizations to offer community service opportunities across various sectors. Whether you’re passionate about Sports, Arts & Culture, Food Security, or Early Childhood Development (ECD), the NYDA National Youth Service Programme has something for you.

Here are some of the key sectors and partners offering opportunities:

  1. Spotlite Education Foundation: Community Works, Food Security, Learner Support, Social Support
  2. Seriti Institute: ECD, Food Security, Digital Mapping & Surveys
  3. Charisma Music Foundation: Sports, Arts & Culture
  4. Youth Life: Sports, Arts & Culture, ECD, Social Support, Digital Mapping & Surveys
  5. Kwetso Foundation: Learner Support & Community Works
  6. Community Chest Western Cape: Learner Support, Community Work, Solidarity & Care, Social Support
  7. Cricket South Africa: Sports and Recreation, Learner Support
  8. Sport for Social Change Network: ECD, Learner Support, Community Works, Sports & Recreation
  9. South African Association Youth Clubs: Food Security, Learner Support, Youth Voter Education
  10. Lulwazi Lethu: Social Support, Solidarity & Care, Food Security & Community Works

Each of these partners has been carefully vetted to ensure the safety and success of participants. No matter where your interests lie, the NYDA National Youth Service Programme provides opportunities that align with your passions and skills.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the NYDA National Youth Service Programme, you need to meet the following requirements:

  • Be between the ages of 18 and 35
  • Be a South African citizen
  • Be willing to commit to part-time community service work

How to Apply

Applying is easy and free! Simply follow these steps:

  1. Visit SAYouth.mobi (zero-rated, so you don’t need data to access the site).
  2. Create your profile or log in if you already have one.
  3. Browse through available opportunities and apply for the ones that interest you.

It’s that simple! With 16,000 new opportunities, there’s no better time to get involved in the NYDA National Youth Service Programme.

Why This Programme Matters

The NYDA National Youth Service Programme is more than just an employment opportunity. It’s a pathway to personal growth, skill development, and community improvement. By participating, you are part of a larger movement aimed at reducing unemployment and enhancing the prospects of South Africa’s youth.

Asanda Luwaca, Executive Chairperson of the NYDA, explains, “Given the current alarming rates of youth that fall into the category of not being in education, employment, or training, the NYS forms a direct response to disenfranchised youth that needs to be urgently located within the mainstream economy.”

This programme plays a crucial role in addressing South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis by giving young people the tools they need to succeed. By empowering youth to participate in meaningful community service, the NYDA National Youth Service Programme helps to build stronger, more resilient communities while providing young South Africans with a sense of purpose and direction.

Related Content: Government-Subsidized Skills Training Programs You Should Know About

The Road Ahead

Once accepted into the NYDA National Youth Service Programme, you’ll be assigned to a part-time role in one of the many available sectors. You’ll earn an income while gaining hands-on experience and working alongside experienced mentors who will guide you on your journey.

The skills and experience you gain through this programme can open doors to a variety of future opportunities, including long-term employment, further studies, or even starting your own business. The NYDA National Youth Service Programme is designed to help you grow, both personally and professionally, while making a lasting impact on your community.

Take the First Step—Apply Today!

Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to be part of the NYDA National Youth Service Programme. Apply now through SAYouth.mobi and take control of your future.

Need Help? Contact NYDA

If you need assistance with the application process or have any questions about the programme, the NYDA is here to help. You can reach out to the agency through any of the following channels:

  • 📞 Toll-Free Line: 0800 58 58 58
  • 📱 WhatsApp: 064 758 5058

Stay connected with the NYDA on social media for updates and news:

  • 🟦 X (formerly Twitter): @nydarsa
  • 📸 Instagram: @nyda_insta
  • 🎥 TikTok: @nydarsa

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