The National Youth Service (NYS) Programme 2026 offers unemployed youth in the Western Cape a one-year skills development opportunity in construction and technical trades through accredited training and workplace experience.
The Department of Infrastructure in the Western Cape is offering the National Youth Service (NYS) Programme 2026, a structured skills development initiative aimed at empowering unemployed youth with practical, in-demand technical skills.
This programme is designed for young people who either have no work experience in the technical trade sector or have some experience but lack formal trade certification. Through a combination of accredited training, on-the-job experience, and youth development activities, the NYS Programme helps participants build a pathway into employment, further training, or self-employment.
About the National Youth Service Programme 2026
The National Youth Service Programme is a one-year initiative that focuses on developing practical skills in the built environment while promoting community service, personal growth, and employability.
The programme is aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and supports South Africa’s broader economic growth and rural development strategies.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Have a minimum of Grade 10 or equivalent (Recognition of Prior Learning may apply)
- Reside in the Western Cape
- Be willing to attend a compulsory briefing session
- Be prepared to commit to a full 12-month National Youth Service Programme
- Be willing to participate in youth development activities, technical training, and on-the-job practical training
Previous experience in construction-related trades such as bricklaying, plumbing, plastering, or carpentry will be beneficial but is not required.
Persons with disabilities who meet the above criteria are encouraged to apply.
Selection Process
A strict selection process is followed, with particular focus on:
- Youth development
- Women empowerment
- Inclusion of persons with disabilities
- Youth in conflict with the law
The number of participants selected depends on available funding and the number of projects allocated to the programme.
Programme Objectives
The National Youth Service Programme aims to:
- Create an enabling environment for youth skills development
- Provide structured training and ongoing support
- Assess participant performance throughout the programme
- Promote inclusivity across gender and geographical locations
- Link participants to community service, internships, and career-oriented studies
The programme is accredited within the National Qualifications Framework and is linked to national strategies for economic growth, with strong emphasis on rural development and sustainable livelihoods.
Technical Trades Covered
Participants may receive training in one or more of the following construction and technical areas:
- Air-conditioning and refrigeration
- Construction masonry and plastering
- Electrical wiring
- Construction plumbing
- Construction tiling
- Construction painting
- Construction carpentry
- Road works
- Construction floor covering
- Construction welding
- Construction plant operation
These trades were identified based on skills demand within the built environment sector.
Discover New Internships and Learnership Programs Below
- Apprenticeships
- Blog
- Bursaries
- Government Vacancies
- Internships SA
- Learnerships
- Uncategorized
- Yes Programme
Training Structure and Support
The skills programme includes:
- Theoretical and simulated training through accredited training providers
- Work-based learning aligned with accredited unit standards
- Workplace experiential training to reinforce institutional learning
- Training conducted in line with relevant NQF levels under the appropriate SETA
Participants are supported throughout the programme to help them transition into viable economic opportunities upon completion.
National Youth Service Policy
The NYS Programme is guided by the National Youth Service Policy, which provides a national framework for youth development. The policy addresses critical issues affecting young people and guides youth programmes delivered by government and non-government organisations.
Its focus is on nation-building, reconstruction, development, and creating meaningful opportunities for young South Africans.
How to Apply
Enquiries
For more information about the National Youth Service Programme in your region, contact:
Telephone: 021 483 3140 / 021 483 3754
You may also follow updates from the Western Cape Government Department of Infrastructure on social media.
Conclusion
The National Youth Service Programme 2026 is a powerful opportunity for unemployed youth in the Western Cape to gain practical skills, accredited training, and real workplace exposure in the construction and technical trades sector. By combining youth development with hands-on learning, the programme equips participants with skills that can lead to employment, further studies, or entrepreneurial opportunities.
Young people who are serious about building a future in the built environment and contributing to community development are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.
