The National Youth Service (NYS) Programme Phase 5 is now recruiting 100,000 unemployed young people across all nine provinces.
This exciting initiative gives youth the opportunity to earn a monthly stipend while participating in meaningful community service projects that contribute to national development.
Programme Overview
The National Youth Service (NYS) Programme is designed to empower young people through community-based service opportunities. Participants will gain valuable workplace experience, develop essential skills, and contribute positively to their communities.
Benefits of the Programme
- Earn a monthly stipend
- Gain practical work experience
- Build valuable skills for future employment
- Contribute to community development
- Improve personal and professional growth
- Expand your network and opportunities

Available Across South Africa
The programme is available in all 9 provinces, ensuring opportunities for young people in communities nationwide.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the National Youth Service Programme, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Live within the municipality or community where the programme is implemented
- Be able to travel to the designated service site
- Be unemployed and preferably not in education, employment, or training (NEET)
- Be willing to contribute positively to community projects
- Not have participated in previous phases of the NYS Programme
- Persons living with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Community Service Activities
Participants may be involved in various community-focused projects, including:
- Sports and recreation programmes
- Community works, greening, and revitalisation projects
- Learner support programmes
- Early Childhood Development (ECD)
- Food security and nutrition initiatives
- Arts, culture, and entertainment activities
- Social support services and care programmes
- Surveys and digital mapping projects
- Youth voter education campaigns
Programme Duration
The programme runs for:
- 6 months, or
- 384 hours of service
Stipend
Successful participants will receive:
- R24.18 per hour
- Working approximately 64 hours per month
- Monthly stipend of approximately R1,547
How to Apply
Applications are now open through the SA Youth platform.
Application Steps
- Visit SA Youth and register or log in.
- Complete your SA Youth profile and CV.
- Search for NYS opportunities in your area.
- Select an opportunity closest to your location.
- Follow the application instructions and submit your application.
Good news: Applying on the SA Youth platform requires no data.
Apply Here
Need Help?
For assistance with registration or applications:
SA Youth Support Line
- Toll-Free: 0800 72 72 72
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
You can also visit your nearest NYDA centre for support.
The National Youth Service Phase 5 Programme is one of the largest youth empowerment initiatives in South Africa, offering 100,000 paid opportunities for unemployed youth. If you are between 18 and 35 years old and want to gain experience, earn an income, and serve your community, this is an opportunity worth applying for.
Register today and take the first step towards building your future while making a positive impact in your community.

