South Africa continues to face one of its greatest challenges—youth unemployment. According to recent statistics, the unemployment rate among young people aged 15–34 years was 45,5% in the first quarter of 2024, far higher than the national average of 32,9%. This stark reality highlights the urgent need for initiatives that open doors for young professionals to gain workplace experience and secure meaningful employment.
One such initiative is the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026, a powerful platform for unemployed graduates to gain valuable experience, enhance their employability, and build strong foundations for their careers.
What is the GIBS YES Programme?
The GIBS YES Programme is a 12-month, full-time work experience opportunity running from January 2026 to January 2027. Successful candidates will join GIBS on a fixed-term contract, gaining hands-on exposure to professional environments, access to leading business professionals, and the chance to kick-start a sustainable career path.
This programme goes beyond simply offering a job—it’s about equipping young people with the skills, networks, and confidence to thrive in South Africa’s highly competitive labour market.
Why Join the GIBS YES Programme?
By participating, candidates will benefit from:
- Real Work Experience – Hands-on exposure to a professional workplace while developing critical skills.
- A Foot in the Door – Boost your career prospects with the credibility of a leading institution.
- Network & Connect – Collaborate with seasoned professionals and like-minded peers.
- Earn While You Learn – Gain valuable work experience through a paid one-year contract.
Who Can Apply?
The GIBS YES Programme is open to unemployed South African youth who are ambitious and ready to commit to a year of professional growth. To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be unemployed at the time of application.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old (not turning 35 before 31 December 2025).
- Be a South African citizen (by birth or naturalisation, according to the Constitution).
- Reside in Gauteng.
- Not have participated in the YES programme at any other company.
Additional Requirements:
- A minimum university degree or equivalent (NQF 7) qualification, preferably with a major in quantitative skills, will be advantageous.
- Strong English language skills.
- Willingness to work a 40-hour week over seven days, including evening shifts from Monday to Friday (16:30 – 21:30).
- Availability to start in January 2026.
How to Apply
If you meet the requirements and are eager to boost your career, this opportunity is for you. The application process is straightforward, but applicants are encouraged to prepare all relevant documentation early to avoid last-minute challenges.
APPLY FOR THE GORDON INSTITUTE OF BUSINESS SCIENCE (GIBS) YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (YES) PROGRAMME HERE
Our Conclusion
The GIBS YES Programme 2026 is more than just a job opportunity—it’s a career-defining experience that equips graduates with the tools they need to succeed. With South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis demanding bold solutions, initiatives like these play a critical role in transforming lives and shaping futures.
If you are ready to invest in your future, don’t miss this chance to be part of a programme that combines experience, skills, and opportunity under the guidance of one of South Africa’s most respected business institutions.
CLOSING DATE: 15 NOVEMBER 2025
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE