Government Boosts Youth Jobs
The South African government is making significant strides in tackling youth unemployment through the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI). With over 1.57 million employment opportunities created since its inception, the initiative is providing young South Africans with critical pathways to work, skills development, and entrepreneurship.
If you are a young job seeker looking for opportunities, here’s how you can access the PYEI Employment Pathway and take advantage of the available programmes.
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What is the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI)?
Launched to combat high youth unemployment, the PYEI is a government-driven initiative aimed at bridging the gap between job seekers and employers. It operates through various programmes, including:
- The National Pathway Management Network (NPMN)
- Sector Education Training Authorities (SETA) initiatives
- The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme
- The Jobs Boost Outcomes Fund (JBOF)
- The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) initiatives
These programmes provide training, work experience, and financial support to young South Africans.
How to Access the PYEI Employment Pathway
1. Register on SAYouth.mobi
One of the key entry points into the PYEI ecosystem is SAYouth.mobi, a free online platform that connects job seekers with available opportunities.
Steps to register:
- Visit SAYouth.mobi
- Create an account and complete your profile
- Browse job listings and apply for suitable opportunities
With over 4.5 million registered users, SAYouth.mobi is an essential tool for unemployed youth looking to transition from learning to earning.
2. Explore the Five Key Sectors for Job Opportunities
The PYEI focuses on five key labour-intensive sectors with high demand for skilled workers:
- Agriculture – Jobs in farming, food production, and agribusiness
- Automotive – Opportunities in vehicle repair, maintenance, and manufacturing
- Social Services – Roles in healthcare, community work, and education
- Digital Technology – Careers in IT, software development, and data science
- Repair Work – Technical jobs in plumbing, electrical work, and construction
By targeting these sectors, the government ensures that youth are equipped with skills that match industry needs, increasing their chances of long-term employment.
3. Apply for the Jobs Boost Outcomes Fund (JBOF)
The R300 million Jobs Boost Outcomes Fund (JBOF) was introduced in 2023 to further support young people in training and job placements.
So far, the JBOF has:
- Enrolled 3,347 young people in training programmes
- Placed 1,603 youth in jobs
- Ensured 1,247 young workers retained employment for at least three months
Who qualifies for JBOF?
- Youth under 35 years old (priority given to under 25s)
- Applicants from quintile 3 or lower schools
- Must have received a child support grant
- University graduates are excluded
Eligible youth can apply for JBOF opportunities via SAYouth.mobi or the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) offices.
4. Join the Revitalised National Youth Service (NYS) Programme
The NYS Phase 3 programme was launched to provide young people with service-based employment, particularly in government and community projects.
- 82,378 youth have been placed in service opportunities
- 13,568 new recruits joined in the final quarter of 2024
The programme is ideal for youth seeking work experience and skills development while contributing to community upliftment.
5. Take Advantage of SETA Training and YES Programme Placements
The Sector Education Training Authorities (SETAs) identify gaps in skills and industry demand, offering young South Africans relevant skills development programmes.
Additionally, the Youth Employment Service (YES) programme has facilitated:
- 14,500 job placements through the Employment Service of South Africa
- 10,000 new workers placed in various companies
These initiatives increase employability and help young South Africans build valuable experience in the workforce.
The Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI) is actively creating job and training opportunities for unemployed youth across South Africa. By registering on SAYouth.mobi, exploring sector-specific training, and applying for JBOF or NYS opportunities, young people can access career-building pathways.
If you’re under 35 and looking for work, don’t miss out—take the first step today and register for your future!
