The Department of Science and Innovation (DSTI) invites unemployed South African graduates to apply for the National Youth Service (NYS) Internship Programme 2026. This is a 12-month paid internship aimed at developing skills, promoting community service, and improving youth employability across South Africa.
The programme is implemented through the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA), which operates as a business unit of the National Research Foundation (NRF). Successful applicants will be placed at approved partner institutions nationwide.
Internship Application Closing Date: 31 January 2026 at 23:59
Internship Location: Partner institutions across South Africa
About the DSTI National Youth Service Programme
The DSTI National Youth Service Programme forms part of government’s broader National Youth Service initiative, which is focused on reducing youth unemployment while encouraging a culture of volunteerism and active citizenship.
Through this programme, unemployed graduates aged 35 and below are placed at approved institutions for a period of 12 months. During the internship, participants receive a monthly stipend to assist with basic living expenses while gaining valuable workplace experience.
Although the programme primarily targets graduates from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, limited opportunities are also available in selected non-STEM disciplines, depending on the recruitment cycle.
Objectives of the DSTI NYS Programme
The DSTI National Youth Service Programme is designed to achieve the following objectives:
- Provide practical workplace exposure to unemployed graduates
- Improve employability and work readiness
- Develop critical and scarce skills aligned with national priorities
- Promote community service, volunteerism, and active citizenship
- Support youth participation in South Africa’s knowledge economy
Who Should Apply?
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be considered:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be unemployed at the time of application
- Be 35 years old or younger
- Hold a relevant tertiary qualification in fields such as:
- Science or Technology
- Journalism and Media Studies
- Communications
- Be computer literate
- Be self-motivated and able to work under pressure
Key Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidates for the DSTI NYS Internship Programme should demonstrate:
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- Writing skills and/or radio and television experience
- Good analytical and interpersonal abilities
- The ability to work independently as well as within a team
Duration and Benefits of the Internship
The programme runs for a fixed period of 12 months. During this time, interns receive a monthly stipend and are placed at approved partner institutions across South Africa.
Participants benefit from structured workplace exposure, professional development, and improved employability at the end of the programme. The experience gained during the internship helps graduates build confidence, develop practical skills, and prepare for future career opportunities.
SEIMS NYS Application Checklist
Documents Required
All applicants must submit certified copies of the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- South African ID
- Motivational letter
- Highest qualification
- Matric certificate
Applications that are incomplete or missing certified documents will not be considered.
How to Apply
Applicants must apply online for the DSTI National Youth Service Internships 2026 using the official application platform.
Click here to apply for the DSTI National Youth Service (NYS) Internships 2026
Ensure that all required documents are uploaded and that your application is submitted before 23:59 on 31 January 2026.
Enquiries
For application-related enquiries, contact:
Contact Person: MacDonald Kapu
Telephone: (012) 392 9351
Email: nysprecruitment@saasta.nrf.ac.za
Conclusion
The Department of Science and Innovation National Youth Service Internship Programme 2026 offers more than just work experience. It provides young graduates with the opportunity to serve communities, build scarce and critical skills, and gain meaningful exposure within South Africa’s science, technology, and development sectors.
For unemployed graduates who are passionate about learning, development, and public service, this internship presents a valuable pathway into the world of work. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply before the closing date and take a step toward building a stronger professional future.
