Discover the latest 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes. See full list, requirements, benefits, stipend info and step-by-step application guide for South African youth.
If you are a young South African looking to gain real working experience while earning a monthly stipend, then the 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes should be among your top opportunities to explore. Every year, the YES (Youth Employment Service) initiative partners with top companies to offer work-based learning designed to empower unemployed youth with practical skills, professional networks, and job placement opportunities.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know about the latest 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes, including:
- Full list of available programmes
- Minimum requirements
- Benefits of joining YES
- Step-by-step application process
- Useful links
- LearnersTag.org disclaimer
Whether you are just finishing matric or searching for a new career direction, this post will give you all the insights needed to successfully apply and secure a position in a YES learnership.
What Are 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes?
The YES4Youth initiative is a collaboration between the South African government and private sector companies aiming to create one-year work opportunities for unemployed youth aged 18–34. These programmes do not require previous work experience, making them ideal for first-time job seekers.
Learnerships under YES combine:
- On-the-job training
- Classroom or online learning
- Practical tasks within real workplace environments
Upon successful completion, participants receive either a YES certificate, industry-recognised qualifications, or NQF-aligned credits, depending on the partner organisation.
List of 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes
Below is a curated list of popular 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes expected to open or continue running in 2026. Note that available positions may differ depending on company intake, province, and industry focus.
1. Retail & Customer Service YES Learnerships
Industries involved: Supermarkets, fashion outlets, hardware stores, e-commerce platforms
Typical roles: Sales assistant, cashier, merchandiser, inventory clerk
These learnerships train youth in customer interaction, product handling, stock management, and store operations.
Popular retailers often participating in YES include:
- Pick n Pay
- Mr Price Group
- Shoprite
- TFG
2. Banking & Financial Services YES Learnerships
Industries involved: Banks, insurance firms, micro-financing institutions
Typical roles: Customer consultant, call centre agent, data processing assistant
YES4Youth partners in the finance sector often recruit young people for digital banking roles, admin support and branch-based customer assistance.
3. ICT & Digital Skills YES Learnerships
Industries involved: Tech companies, software firms, IT support providers
Typical roles: IT technician trainee, digital marketing assistant, helpdesk support
This is one of the fastest-growing YES4Youth categories as companies adopt digital transformation strategies.
4. Call Centre & Contact Centre YES Learnerships
Industries involved: Telecoms, financial services, retail, insurance
Typical roles: Call centre agent, customer service agent, support consultant
These programmes focus on communication skills, customer engagement and CRM systems.
5. Manufacturing & Engineering YES Learnerships
Industries involved: Automotive, production companies, factories
Typical roles: Machine operator assistant, engineering trainee, production line worker
Participants gain hands-on industry experience essential for technical fields.
6. Hospitality & Tourism YES Learnerships
Industries involved: Hotels, restaurants, travel agencies
Typical roles: Front desk assistant, waiter, kitchen trainee
These programmes prepare youth for guest-facing roles and service excellence.
7. Logistics & Transport YES Learnerships
Industries involved: Courier companies, warehousing firms, transport providers
Typical roles: Warehouse assistant, driver assistant, logistics clerk
This is an excellent pathway for youth interested in supply chain careers.
8. Agriculture & Environmental YES Learnerships
Industries involved: Farming projects, agri-processing companies, sustainability firms
Typical roles: Farm assistant, agro-technician trainee, environmental field worker
These programmes promote skills development in eco-friendly practices and food production.
Minimum Requirements for 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes
Though the exact requirements vary by company, most 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes share the following conditions:
✔️ Be between 18 and 34 years old
The YES initiative specifically targets unemployed youth.
✔️ Must be a South African citizen
Valid ID required.
✔️ Must be currently unemployed
YES positions are only available to individuals not engaged in any full-time employment.
✔️ No previous formal work experience required
This makes YES perfect for entry-level job seekers.
✔️ Minimum of Grade 10, Grade 11, or Matric
Educational requirements differ depending on the role.
✔️ Willingness to commit to a 12-month programme
YES runs for a full year, and consistent participation is essential.
✔️ Must not have participated in a YES programme before
Only first-time applicants are eligible.
Some fields—like ICT, finance or engineering—may also require:
- Basic computer literacy
- Maths or Science
- Clear criminal record (depending on employer)
Benefits of Joining the 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes
Taking part in a YES learnership offers long-term benefits for career-focused youth. These include:
1. Gain Valuable Work Experience
The number one advantage is real workplace exposure—something most employers look for when hiring.
2. Earn a Monthly Stipend
Participants receive a monthly stipend to cover transport, food and living expenses while learning.
3. Skills Development and Professional Training
YES programmes include:
- Soft skills training
- Workplace etiquette
- Job-readiness workshops
- Industry-specific learning
This ensures participants are fully prepared for professional environments.
4. Increased Employability
With a year of experience and certifications, graduates become more competitive in the job market.
5. Networking Opportunities
By working inside reputable companies, you build networks that can lead to permanent employment.
6. Certification Upon Completion
Some programmes offer NQF qualification credits, making your CV more marketable.
How to Apply for 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes
Applying for the 2026 programmes is simple if you follow the correct process. Below is a complete step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Register on the YES Youth Portal
Create a profile on the official YES Youth platform:
🔗 https://yes4youth.co.za
You will need:
- South African ID
- Cellphone number
- Email address
Step 2: Upload Your Documents
Most companies require the following documents:
- Copy of ID
- Updated CV
- Highest qualification certificate
- Proof of residence
Ensure your documents are clear and in PDF format.
Step 3: Search for Available 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes
Once registered, browse available opportunities from different companies. New listings are added throughout the year.
You can also check company career pages and job portals such as:
- PNet
- Careers24
- Indeed South Africa
Step 4: Submit Your Online Application
Follow the prompts on each company’s application page. Ensure all information is accurate—incorrect details may disqualify you.
Step 5: Attend Assessments or Interviews
Some employers conduct:
- Interviews
- Online tests
- Background checks
Prepare well and respond to messages or calls promptly.
Step 6: Sign Your YES Contract
Once accepted, you will sign a 12-month agreement outlining your role, stipend and responsibilities.
Useful Links for YES Opportunities
Below are helpful links you can use to find and apply for learnerships:
- YES Youth Official Website: https://yes4youth.co.za
- SA Youth / Harambee: https://sayouth.mobi
- Careers Portal: https://www.careersportal.co.za
- LinkedIn Jobs: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs
- LearnersTag Learnership Updates: https://learnerstag.org (modify as needed)
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a 2026 YES Learnership
✔️ Keep your CV short, clean and professional
✔️ Use a valid cellphone number and email
✔️ Apply early—positions fill up quickly
✔️ Apply for multiple programmes to increase your chances
✔️ Follow instructions carefully during the application
✔️ Keep checking your email and SMS for updates
Final Thoughts
The 2026 YES4Youth Learnerships Programmes offer life-changing opportunities for South African youth seeking work experience, skills training, and a stepping stone into long-term careers. Whether you are passionate about retail, tech, finance, engineering or customer service, YES has a programme suited for you.
Take advantage of the application tips and useful links in this guide to start your journey toward personal and professional growth. Opportunities like these are rare—make sure you apply as early as possible.
LearnersTag.org Disclaimer
LearnersTag.org is an educational website that shares information on learnerships, internships, bursaries and career opportunities. We do not recruit, advertise on behalf of employers, or guarantee placement in any programme. All information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify details directly with the official YES4Youth website or respective employer before applying.
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