South Africa continues to face a major challenge: thousands of graduates complete their studies every year, yet many struggle to enter the job market because they lack practical experience or exposure to real working environments. To respond to this challenge, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), working with the NRF–SAASTA, has officially opened applications for the DSTI National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026 .
This national programme, which runs for 12 months, offers unemployed graduates across the country the chance to gain hands-on work experience, contribute to community development, and participate in meaningful science and technology engagement projects. With monthly stipends ranging from R4,500 to R7,700, this initiative provides both financial support and career-building opportunities.
Applications are open now and must be submitted online before 31 January 2026.
What Is the DSTI National Youth Service Graduate Programme?
The DSTI–NYS Graduate Programme is a structured work-integrated learning initiative designed to help young graduates gain relevant experience while working in organisations that promote science engagement, technology advancement, education, conservation, and media development in South Africa.
Programme Highlights:
- Duration: 12 months
- Start Date: April 2026
- Monthly Stipend: R4,500 – R7,700 (depending on qualification level)
- Eligibility: South African graduates aged 18–35
- Application Deadline: 31 January 2026
- Application Portal: https://seims.dsi.gov.za/nys/landing
This programme is part of the government’s long-term vision to expand the country’s knowledge economy, build stronger STEM capacity, and empower youth with real career opportunities.
Why This Programme Matters for South African Graduates
South Africa has a growing number of qualified graduates who find themselves unemployed due to limited experience or a lack of professional networks. Many young people struggle to enter their industries because employers require experience they have not yet had the opportunity to gain.
The DSTI–NYS Graduate Programme tackles this issue by offering:
1. Real Workplace Exposure
Participants are placed full-time in partner institutions where they can apply their academic knowledge, learn practical skills, and understand how professional environments operate.
2. Professional and Personal Development
Graduates work under supervision and mentorship, allowing them to strengthen their CVs, expand their skillsets, and grow in confidence. The programme supports the development of communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and technical abilities.
3. Community and National Impact
The programme is not only about career growth—it also allows graduates to contribute to public science awareness, education, conservation, and media outreach, helping to uplift communities across South Africa.
4. Monthly Financial Support
Stipends help cover basic living expenses while graduates participate in the programme, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent young people from gaining experience.
Fields of Study Eligible for the Programme
Graduates with qualifications in the following fields are encouraged to apply:
- Science
- Engineering
- Technology
- Journalism
- Media Studies
- Communication Studies
The programme accepts applicants from universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges depending on their qualification level.
Where Graduates Will Be Placed
Successful applicants may be deployed across various institutions nationwide. Placements are arranged according to qualification relevance, institutional needs, and geographic availability. Possible deployment areas include:
- Science centres and museums
- Universities and research institutions
- Schools and TVET colleges
- Conservation and biodiversity organisations
- Botanical and zoological gardens
- Media houses and community media stations
- Non-profit science outreach organisations
- Science councils and public science agencies
This wide range of placement options ensures that graduates experience different environments and explore career paths connecting science, technology, and public engagement.
Programme Stipend Structure
Stipends are awarded based on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level of your highest qualification:
| Qualification Level (NQF) | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| National Diploma (NQF 6) | R4,500 |
| Bachelor’s Degree / BTech (NQF 7) | R5,000 |
| Honours Degree (NQF 8) | R5,500 |
| Master’s Degree (NQF 9) | R6,500 |
| PhD (NQF 10) | R7,700 |
This tiered system ensures fairness and acknowledges the academic achievements of participants.
Organisations Behind the Programme
1. Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI)
DSTI is responsible for shaping national policies that support science, research, and innovation. The department aims to build a vibrant knowledge-based economy and promote scientific literacy in South Africa.
2. NRF–SAASTA
The South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement is a division of the National Research Foundation. It specialises in:
- Youth development
- Science communication
- STEM outreach programmes
- Community science engagement
Together, DSTI and SAASTA coordinate placements, mentorship, and programme administration to ensure a smooth and impactful experience for all participants.
Who Can Apply? — Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the NYS Graduate Programme 2026, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be between 18 and 35 years of age
- Be unemployed at the time of application
- Hold a relevant qualification in science, engineering, technology, media, journalism, or communication
- Have not previously participated in the NYS programme
Required Documents for Your Application
Applicants must upload clear, certified, and recently scanned documents:
- A professional letter of motivation
- A detailed and updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of academic transcripts or qualification certificates
- If your certificate is not yet issued: a letter of completion
- Valid email address and cellphone number
All files must be easy to read and properly labelled.
How to Apply Online
Follow these steps to submit your application:
Step 1: Visit the Application Portal
Go to the official NYS Graduate Programme website:
https://seims.dsi.gov.za/nys/landing
Step 2: Create an Account or Log In
- First-time applicants must register an account.
- Returning users may log in with their existing profile.
Step 3: Complete the Online Form
Fill out all required personal, academic, and background information.
Step 4: Upload All Required Documents
Attach each certified copy in the correct format.
Step 5: Review Your Information
Double-check all details before submitting.
Step 6: Submit Before 31 January 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Official Contact Information
Contact Person: Mr. Macdonald Kapu
Phone: 012 392 9300
Email: MM.Kapu@saasta.nrf.ac.za
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need previous work experience to apply?
No. The programme is designed specifically for unemployed graduates who have qualifications but no work experience.
2. Is the stipend a salary?
No. It is a monthly stipend to support your participation. It is not equivalent to a full-time salary.
3. Can I apply if I am waiting for my certificate?
Yes. You can submit your application using a letter of completion from your institution.
4. Where will I be placed?
Placements depend on availability and your field of study. You may be assigned to schools, universities, media houses, conservation sites, science centres, research councils, or outreach organisations.
5. How many graduates will be accepted?
The number varies each year depending on institutional capacity and available funding.
6. Can TVET College graduates apply?
Yes. Graduates with NQF Level 6 qualifications are eligible.
7. Is the programme available in all provinces?
Yes. Placements occur countrywide depending on partner institutions.
8. Can I choose where I want to be placed?
You may indicate preferences, but final placements are determined by the programme.
9. Will I be permanently employed after the programme?
There is no guarantee of permanent employment, but the experience greatly improves your job prospects.
10. Can I participate if I am older than 35?
Unfortunately not. The programme strictly accepts applicants aged 18–35.
Final Thoughts
The DSTI National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026 is a powerful opportunity for young South Africans who want to grow professionally, build a strong foundation in their chosen field, and contribute to meaningful national projects. With placements across South Africa, hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, and stipends of up to R7,700 per month, this initiative provides graduates with the exposure they need to confidently enter the job market.
If you are an unemployed graduate passionate about science, technology, media, or communication, this programme can be a transformative step toward building your future. Make sure to prepare your documents early and submit your application before 31 January 2026.
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
