South African youth looking for an opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience now have a chance to apply for the Eskom Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme 2026. Eskom has officially announced 106 YES Learnership positions, giving unemployed young people an opportunity to gain practical work experience within one of South Africa’s largest and most important state-owned companies.
The YES Programme forms part of a national initiative aimed at reducing youth unemployment and helping young South Africans gain the skills, experience, and confidence needed to enter the job market. For many participants, the programme serves as a stepping stone towards future employment opportunities.
If you have completed Grade 12 and are eager to gain workplace exposure, this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for.
About the Eskom YES Learnership Programme
The Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative is a collaboration between government and the private sector designed to create employment opportunities for unemployed youth.
Through this programme, Eskom provides successful applicants with a 12-month fixed-term contract, allowing them to gain hands-on workplace experience in a professional environment.
Participants will be exposed to various operational and administrative functions while developing valuable workplace skills that can improve their future career prospects.
The programme is especially beneficial for young people who have little or no work experience and are looking for their first opportunity in the formal job market.
Number of Positions Available
Eskom has advertised:
- YES Learnership Programme – 106 Positions
These opportunities are available to qualifying unemployed South African youth who meet the programme requirements.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be between 18 and 34 years old
- Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent qualification
- Must not be studying full-time during the year of employment
- Must not have participated in the YES Programme previously
- Must not have been permanently employed by a single employer for more than one continuous year
Candidates who meet these requirements are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.
Skills and Attributes Required
Although previous work experience is not required, Eskom is looking for candidates who demonstrate the following qualities:
Personal Attributes
- Energetic
- Self-motivated
- Professional
- Customer-focused
- Assertive
- Reliable
- Polite and respectful
Skills
- Good communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Ability to work with others
- Problem-solving ability
- Strong work ethic
Behavioural Competencies
- Integrity
- Teamwork
- Professionalism
- Commitment to learning
These qualities are important for succeeding in a professional working environment.
What Participants Will Gain
The Eskom YES Learnership Programme provides much more than workplace exposure. Successful candidates can benefit from:
- Practical work experience
- Exposure to a professional corporate environment
- Improved employability
- Workplace communication skills
- Professional development
- Networking opportunities
- Understanding of large-scale business operations
- Career readiness skills
Many employers value practical work experience, making programmes like YES an excellent addition to a CV.
Why Eskom?
Eskom remains one of South Africa’s most recognised employers and continues to invest in youth development initiatives.
The organisation was once again recognised as a Top Employer South Africa 2026, highlighting its commitment to employee development, diversity, and workplace excellence.
Participating in an Eskom programme can provide valuable insight into the energy sector while helping young people develop the skills needed to succeed in future careers.
Documents You May Need
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Grade 12 certificate
- Any additional supporting documents requested during the application process
Having these documents ready can help ensure a smoother application process.
Final Thoughts
The Eskom YES Learnership Programme X106 Positions presents an excellent opportunity for unemployed South African youth to gain valuable workplace experience and develop important professional skills.
With only Grade 12 required and no previous work experience needed, this programme is ideal for young people looking to take their first step into the world of work. Programmes like YES have helped thousands of young South Africans improve their employability and build brighter futures.
If you meet the requirements, do not miss this opportunity to gain experience with one of South Africa’s leading employers.
How to Apply
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