South Africa continues to battle high unemployment levels, especially among youth, women, and rural communities. The Social Employment Fund (SEF), introduced by the Presidential Employment Stimulus, is one of the boldest steps yet to address this crisis—not just by creating jobs, but by delivering social value.
The SEF provides funding to non-profit organisations, social enterprises, cooperatives, and community-based organisations to implement employment initiatives that serve the public good. If you’re a job seeker, youth, or a grassroots organisation looking to create impact, this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
What Is the Social Employment Fund (SEF)?
The SEF is a public programme launched by the Department of Employment and Labour in partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). It funds organisations to provide part-time work for unemployed individuals through social initiatives such as:
- Community kitchens
- Educational support
- Environmental projects
- Arts, culture, and heritage activities
- Health and wellness education
- Local safety campaigns
SEF isn’t just about “work for the sake of work.” It’s about work that matters.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria for Job Seekers)
To apply for a job through the SEF programme, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Be 18–60 years old
- Be currently unemployed
- Reside in the area where the project is taking place
- Be willing to work part-time (about 16–20 hours per week)
- Have no current participation in other government employment schemes
No prior work experience is required. The SEF is about giving people a first chance.
How Organisations Can Apply for SEF Funding
Organisations interested in hosting SEF workers must submit a funding proposal through the IDC’s official application portal when a call for proposals is open.
To be considered, your organisation must:
- Be legally registered (NPO, NPC, cooperative, etc.)
- Have capacity to implement community-based work
- Be able to offer training or mentoring
- Propose projects that deliver social value
Each proposal must outline:
- The type of work to be done
- Number of jobs to be created
- Areas where work will take place
- Training and support provided
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply as a Job Seeker
Here’s how unemployed individuals can apply to work under SEF:
Step 1: Find a Funded Organisation
Check with:
- Your local community centre
- Ward councillors or local government offices
- SEF announcements via the IDC or Department of Employment and Labour website
- Social media pages of NPOs (e.g. Harambee, Seriti Institute)
Step 2: Submit Application
Applications are often done in person or via a recruitment partner (e.g. SAYouth.mobi). You will need:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Proof of residence
- Bank details or cellphone number linked to your wallet (for stipend payments)
Step 3: Attend Orientation
If selected, you will go through a short induction, followed by placement on a project for up to 9 months.
Application Process for Organisations (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Register on the IDC SEF Portal
Go to the official IDC website or the Presidential Employment Stimulus portal during an open call.
Step 2: Download the Call for Proposals
This includes application guidelines, eligibility criteria, and templates.
Step 3: Complete the Proposal
You’ll submit:
- Organisational profile
- Project plan
- Budget
- Job creation targets
- Monitoring & evaluation methods
Step 4: Submit Online
Upload all documents through the IDC SEF Application Portal before the deadline.
Step 5: Await Approval
If shortlisted, you’ll be invited for an interview or verification. Approved organisations sign a Service Level Agreement and receive funding.
What Kind of Work Will You Do Under SEF?
SEF jobs are designed to benefit communities. Common tasks include:
- Assisting in school feeding schemes
- Helping run after-school programmes
- Organising local sports or art initiatives
- Planting trees and cleaning rivers
- Delivering public health information
- Helping maintain public facilities
The goal is to create dignified work that improves local life while building your experience.
Stipends and Work Conditions
Under SEF, beneficiaries:
- Work approximately 2–3 days a week
- Earn a stipend of around R23/hour
- Receive training and mentoring
- Get a certificate of participation
This makes it possible for beneficiaries to still pursue other jobs, education or entrepreneurial efforts while gaining income and skills.
Tips for Job Seekers:
- Visit SAYouth.mobi
- Follow social pages of organisations like Seriti, Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator
- Get help at your local labour centre or Thusong Centre
Tips for Organisations:
- Check the IDC website regularly for new funding windows
- Ensure your proposal aligns with the Presidential Employment Stimulus priorities
- Monitor your impact—reporting is essential!
SEF Is Your Gateway to Impactful Employment
Whether you’re unemployed and looking for work, or a grassroots organisation trying to make a difference, the Social Employment Fund opens doors. With the right information and preparation, you can unlock real opportunities that change lives and uplift communities.
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
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