South Africa faces a youth unemployment crisis. With more than 60% of young people out of work, the country urgently needs initiatives that provide real opportunities for training, employment, and long-term career development. One of the most impactful responses to this crisis is the Eskom YES Training Programme—a powerful youth employment initiative that offers skills, exposure, and hope.
The Youth Employment Service (YES) programme, when implemented by national entities like Eskom, becomes a transformative force in communities. Let’s explore how Eskom’s participation in YES is empowering young South Africans and reshaping their futures.
What is the YES Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) is a joint initiative between government, labour, and the private sector. Launched in 2018, YES aims to provide unemployed youth (aged 18–35) with 12 months of quality work experience.
It partners with over 1,200 businesses to create paid work opportunities that give young people a chance to gain real-world skills and significantly improve their chances of long-term employment.
When large organisations like Eskom join the YES Programme, they create a ripple effect that benefits individuals, families, communities, and the economy.
What is the Eskom YES Training Programme?
The Eskom YES Training Programme is Eskom’s implementation of the national YES initiative. Eskom collaborates with YES to offer temporary training and work opportunities for unemployed youth in various operational and administrative fields.
Key Features:
- 12-month fixed-term contract
- Monthly stipend provided
- Practical training and work experience
- Placement across Eskom’s regional offices, substations, and administrative units
- Exposure to departments such as:
- Human Resources
- Finance
- Engineering Support
- Supply Chain Management
- Safety and Compliance
- Project Management
This initiative forms part of Eskom’s broader skills development and transformation strategy, aimed at building a capable and inclusive workforce for the future.
Related: Unlock Your Potential: GEMMA Training Internship Programme 2025 at Eskom
Objectives of Eskom’s YES Programme
Eskom’s YES Programme is designed to:
- Equip youth with market-relevant skills
- Break the cycle of unemployment among first-time job seekers
- Increase workplace exposure to major industries like energy, infrastructure, and engineering
- Promote economic inclusion by recruiting from disadvantaged and rural communities
- Support national development goals by creating a pipeline of work-ready youth
Who Qualifies for the Eskom YES Programme?
Eskom seeks youth who show promise, motivation, and a willingness to learn. Here are the general requirements:
Eligibility Criteria:
- South African citizen
- Aged between 18 and 35 years
- Unemployed and not studying full-time
- No prior permanent work experience
- Matric certificate (minimum)
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Willingness to relocate or work in various Eskom locations
In some cases, Eskom may request post-matric qualifications (e.g. NQF Level 5, diplomas, or degrees) depending on the department.
Where Are Participants Placed?
Participants in the YES programme are deployed across Eskom’s various provincial offices and operational sites, such as:
- Gauteng: Johannesburg, Megawatt Park, Rosherville
- KwaZulu-Natal: Durban, Pietermaritzburg
- Western Cape: Cape Town, Bellville
- Limpopo: Polokwane, Lephalale
- Eastern Cape: East London, Mthatha
- Mpumalanga: eMalahleni, Middleburg
- North West & Northern Cape: Kimberley, Rustenburg, Upington
This nationwide reach ensures that even youth from underdeveloped areas have access to work experience.
What Kind of Work is Involved?
Depending on the placement, YES participants at Eskom might work in:
- Customer service roles
- Administrative support
- Data capturing and recordkeeping
- Technical support (e.g. asset management, logistics)
- Fieldwork and compliance monitoring
- Engineering support (for those with technical qualifications)
All participants are assigned to mentors or supervisors who guide them throughout the experience.
Do You Get Paid?
Yes. Participants receive a monthly stipend to cover basic transport, food, and living expenses. While the amount varies, it usually ranges between R3,500 and R5,000 per month—depending on Eskom’s internal policies and location.
Although this isn’t a salaried job, it’s a valuable stepping stone into formal employment.
Impact on Youth
Here’s how the YES Programme at Eskom changes lives:
1. Improved Employability
The biggest hurdle for young people entering the job market is a lack of experience. YES solves this by offering a 12-month record of real-world work that employers value.
2. Skills Development
YES interns learn crucial soft skills—like time management, teamwork, and communication—alongside technical skills like data entry, report writing, and systems use.
3. Professional Networking
Being part of Eskom exposes participants to a network of professionals who may assist in future job searches or mentorship.
4. Boosted Confidence
Workplace success builds self-esteem, motivation, and goal orientation—essential for personal and professional development.
How to Apply
When applications open, they are usually listed on:
- www.eskom.co.za
- Job portals like Careers Portal, SAYouth.mobi, or Indeed
- Government circulars and YES partner sites
Required Documents:
- Certified ID copy
- Certified Matric certificate
- Updated CV (max 2 pages)
- Proof of address
- Bank details (for stipend registration)
Eskom does not charge any fees to apply, and applicants are advised to be cautious of scams.
When to Apply
The YES Programme typically opens once per year, around June–August, depending on Eskom’s training calendar and budget cycle. Always check the official Eskom careers site and the YES4Youth platform for updates.
Real Stories, Real Change
Thousands of South African youth have already benefitted from YES placements. Many go on to:
- Secure permanent jobs (at Eskom or elsewhere)
- Continue their studies with real-world insight
- Start small businesses with new skills and contacts
- Return to their communities and mentor others
According to YES4Youth’s 2023 impact report, over 75% of youth who complete the YES programme improve their chances of formal employment within six months.
The Eskom YES Training Programme is more than a temporary placement—it’s a life-changing experience. For many South African youth, it offers a rare and powerful opportunity to break free from unemployment and gain the skills needed for long-term success.
If you’re between 18 and 35 and eager to learn, grow, and work in a professional environment, this programme could be your gateway to a brighter future.
Keep your eyes on Eskom’s career portal, prepare your documents, and take that first step toward transforming your future.
The power is in your hands—apply for YES and make it happen.