The National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026 – A Chance to Work in Science, Tech, Journalism, and Media
If you finished university in South Africa and are looking for a real job but have no work experience, the National Youth Service (NYS) Graduate Programme 2026 might be just what you need. Run by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and the National Research Foundation – South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA), this 12‑month programme invites unemployed graduates aged 18 to 35 to get paid while they learn on the job. It is a paid, full‑time volunteer opportunity that gives you hands‑on experience in science centres, schools, media outlets, and other places where science is shared with the public.
Quick Facts
- Name: DSTI – National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026
- Who can apply: Unemployed graduates in Science, Engineering, Technology, Journalism, or Media Studies.
- Duration: 12 months
- Start: April 2026
- Deadline: 31 January 2026
- Stipends (per month):
- NQF 6 (National Diploma): R4 500
- NQF 7 (Bachelor’s/BTech): R5 000
- NQF 8 (Honours): R5 500
- NQF 9 (Master’s): R6 500
- NQF 10 (PhD): R7 700
You can apply directly at https://seims.dsi.gov.za/nys/landing. When you click the link, you’ll be taken to the official portal where the application process starts.
What You’ll Get
This programme is not just a pay‑check. It lets you:
- Work in real environments such as science museums, university labs, TVET colleges, and media houses.
- Build a solid CV while helping communities learn about science and technology.
- Meet people who work in STEM and media, making your network grow.
- Join a national movement that encourages young South Africans to talk about science and tech.
- Earn a monthly stipend while you’re on the job.
You’re not just waiting for a job to come to you; you’re actively stepping into a structured program with clear learning and service goals.
Why It Matters
Many graduates finish school with great knowledge, but they lack the hands‑on experience, exposure, or connections to find a job right away. The NYS programme helps close that gap by placing you in real roles, letting you learn from people already working in science or media, and showing you how to use your skills in a professional setting.
Who Can Join?
To be eligible you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Be unemployed.
- Have a completed qualification in one of these areas: Science, Engineering, Technology, Journalism, or Media Studies.
You could be posted to:
- Schools and TVET colleges
- Universities
- Science centres and museums
- Science councils
- Conservation organisations
- Botanic gardens or zoos
- Non‑profit science groups
- Media outlets for journalism/media grads
Stipend Details
The stipend matches your qualification level to keep things fair:
| NQF Level | Monthly Pay |
|---|---|
| 6 – National Diploma | R4 500 |
| 7 – Bachelor’s/BTech | R5 000 |
| 8 – Honours | R5 500 |
| 9 – Master’s | R6 500 |
| 10 – PhD | R7 700 |
These payments allow you to support yourself while you learn.
What to Prepare
Before you start, you need a few documents ready:
- Cover letter – explain why you want this programme.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – detail your education and any work or volunteer experience.
- Certified ID copy – proof of identity.
- Certified qualification certificates or transcripts – show your degrees or diplomas.
- Letter of completion – if your certificate isn’t issued yet.
- Current contact details – phone number and email.
Make sure the scans are clear and the files are named correctly.
Step‑by‑Step Application Guide
Go to the application portal
Click “Apply now for the DSTI – National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026” or visit https://seims.dsi.gov.za/nys/landing.Create or log into your account – set up a new profile if you haven’t used the site before.
Fill out the online form – enter all personal and academic details.
Upload your documents – attach the cover letter, CV, ID copy, certificates/transcripts, and completion letter if needed.
Double‑check everything – make sure names, dates, and files are correct.
Submit before 31 January 2026 – that’s the last day to be considered.
Only applicants who are shortlisted will be contacted for the next steps.
Want Some Help?
If you’re unsure about your cover letter or your CV, you can reach out for a template or some guidance. A good letter shows passion and clear reasons for wanting to join the programme. A CV that highlights your strengths and any projects you worked on can make a strong impression.
Need More Information?
Questions about the programme? You can contact the DSTI or SAASTA teams for details. They’re ready to help you understand what the job involves and how it can start your career in science, technology, or media.
Why This Is Worth Applying
The National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026 is a practical way to start a career in South Africa’s science and technology fields. It offers a stipend, real work experience, and a chance to make a difference by sharing science with people everywhere. If you’re a recent graduate who needs a foothold in the job market, this could be the right move.
Don’t wait for the perfect opportunity to appear—create one yourself. Visit https://seims.dsi.gov.za/nys/landing today and submit your application before the 31 January deadline. Good luck!