DSTI National Youth Service (NYS) Programme 2026

If you are a young graduate sitting at home, applying for jobs with little response, or feeling stuck in a cycle of “no experience, no job”, the DSTI–National Youth Service (NYS) Programme could be the opportunity that changes your direction.

This programme is not just another internship. It is a national development intervention designed to help South African youth transition from education into meaningful economic participation — while serving communities and building scarce skills.

Quick Overview

Programme Name: DSTI–National Youth Service (NYS) Programme 2026
Managed by: South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA)
Parent Department: Department of Science and Innovation (DSTI)
Programme Duration: 12 months
Target Group: Unemployed graduates under the age of 35
Fields Prioritised: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM)
Other Fields Considered: Journalism & Media Studies, Communications, and related disciplines
Monthly Stipend: Provided (to cover basic needs)
Closing Date: Saturday, 31 January 2026 at 23:59
Enquiries: Tel: (012) 392 9351
Email: nysprecruitment@saasta.nrf.ac.za

What Is the DSTI National Youth Service (NYS) Programme?

The DSTI–National Youth Service Programme is a specialised component of South Africa’s broader National Youth Service (NYS) initiative. It focuses on placing unemployed graduates into real-world, structured environments where they can:

Gain practical workplace experience
Serve communities through development-focused work
Build transferable and scarce skills
Improve their employability after the programme

The programme is managed by South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA), which operates under the National Research Foundation (NRF), on behalf of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSTI).

Who Is the Programme Designed For?

The DSTI-NYS Programme is mainly targeted at:

Unemployed South African graduates
Under the age of 35
With relevant tertiary qualifications
Who are passionate about community development, communication, science, or technology

While the main focus is on STEM graduates, the programme also opens limited spaces for graduates in:

Journalism and Media Studies
Communications
Related social or development-focused fields

This means non-STEM graduates should not self-reject — if your qualification aligns with the placement needs, you stand a chance.

Minimum Requirements (Read This Carefully)

To be considered, applicants should meet most or all of the following:

Educational Background

A relevant tertiary qualification, for example:
- Science or Technology
- Journalism & Media Studies
- Communications or related disciplines

Skills & Competencies

Computer literacy
Self-motivation and ability to work under pressure
Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
Strong organisational skills
Writing skills and/or radio & television skills
Good analytical and interpersonal skills

Personal Attributes

Willingness to serve communities
Interest in public service and development
Professional attitude and accountability

Documents Required

Your application will not be considered if documents are missing or uncertified.

Prepare the following before applying:

SEIMS: NYS Application Documents
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Certified copy of ID
Motivational Letter (very important)
Certified copy of highest qualification
Certified copy of Matric certificate

Certification must be recent and clear.

What Happens During the 12 Months?

Once selected, you will be placed at a partner institution where you will:

Perform structured duties aligned to your qualification
Receive mentorship and supervision
Participate in skills development activities
Gain exposure to government and research environments
Receive a monthly stipend to cover basic living needs

This is not casual volunteering — it is structured service with career intent.

Benefits of the DSTI–NYS Programme

Let’s be honest: experience matters. This programme gives you:

Real workplace experience
A credible government programme on your CV
Exposure to science, innovation, and public service
Improved employability after completion
Professional references
A structured routine and income support

For many past participants, this programme became a launchpad into permanent employment, postgraduate study, or further internships.

How to Apply

APPLY FOR THE DSTI NATIONAL YOUTH SERVICE (NYS) PROGRAMME 2026 HERE

How Edupstairs Helps You Prepare

At Edupstairs, we don’t just post opportunities—we help you win them.

Recommended Tools:

Edupstairs Advice (Read This Before You Apply)

As a youth-focused opportunity platform, Edupstairs strongly recommends that you:

Tailor your motivational letter to community service and development
Clearly explain why you are unemployed and how this programme will help you
Highlight communication, writing, and teamwork skills
Avoid generic copy-paste motivations
Prepare early and submit before the deadline
Use tools like:
- CV builders
- Career readiness checkers
- Interview preparation guides

Remember: many graduates apply — quality applications stand out.

Career Growth Path After This Programme

After completing the DSTI-NYS Programme, participants often move into:

Graduate internships (government or private sector)
Research assistant roles
Communication or media roles in science institutions
Project coordination roles
NGO and development sector employment
SETA-funded learnerships or internships
Postgraduate studies (Honours, Masters, or PhD)

In short: this programme unlocks doors that remain closed without experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this programme only for science graduates?

No. STEM graduates are prioritised, but other relevant fields such as journalism and communications are also considered depending on placement needs.

Is there an age limit?

Yes. Applicants must be under 35 years old.

Do I need work experience?

No. The programme is specifically designed for unemployed graduates, including those with little or no work experience.

Is the stipend enough to survive?

The stipend is intended to cover basic needs, not luxury living. It helps participants focus on learning and service.

Can I apply if I am studying part-time?

Generally, the programme expects full-time commitment. Studying full-time may disqualify you.

CLOSING DATE: 31 JANUARY 2026

You can also:

Disclaimer

Edupstairs is not the recruiting authority
Always verify information directly with the official contact details provided
Do not pay anyone to apply on your behalf
Late or incomplete applications are usually rejected automatically

Do not wait until the last hour. Systems get overloaded.

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Edupstairs TrustScore™

100 /100

Verified / Low Risk This is an evidence-based risk assessment to help applicants verify opportunities.

OrganisationDepartment of Science and Innovation (DSTI)

SourceSETA/Government site

Open source link

Apply viaOnline portal

ReferenceDSTI_NYS2026

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