Nedbank has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering South African youth by participating in the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme. This initiative, a business-led collaboration with the government, aims to tackle the country’s high unemployment rate by equipping young people with meaningful workplace experience and essential skills.
Through the programme, participants will significantly improve their chances of securing long-term employment, thereby contributing to economic growth and social transformation.
What is the YES Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a strategic intervention to address youth unemployment by providing opportunities for work experience. Designed as a collaboration between businesses and the government, the programme enables young individuals to gain exposure to real-world working environments, helping them develop practical skills that will make them more employable in the future.
The initiative is not an internship, apprenticeship, or learnership but a structured employment opportunity for a fixed period. Participants will work in various divisions across Nedbank’s sites, branches, and offices, where they will gain insights into corporate work culture and professional development.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Nedbank YES Programme, applicants must meet specific criteria. The programme is open to South African youth who:
- Are between the ages of 18 and 29;
- Have completed matric (Grade 12);
- Are currently unemployed;
- Are classified as African, Coloured, or Indian citizens according to the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) Act;
- Have not previously participated in a YES Programme with another organisation.
This eligibility criteria ensures that the initiative benefits young people who need work experience the most, aligning with South Africa’s transformation and economic empowerment goals.
Programme Duration and Start Date
Successful applicants will be employed for a 12-month period, during which they will receive structured workplace exposure and practical training. The Nedbank YES Programme is scheduled to begin on 1 June 2025, giving participants ample time to prepare for this transformative opportunity.
Since the programme is designed as full-time employment, participants will be expected to commit to their roles and responsibilities throughout the year.
Stipend and Financial Support
One of the most important aspects of the programme is that participants will receive a monthly stipend. This stipend serves as financial assistance to help cover essential living expenses, including:
- Food and meals
- Transport to and from work
- Basic living costs
While the stipend is not equivalent to a full salary, it provides a much-needed financial cushion, ensuring that young employees can focus on their work experience without undue financial stress.
Work Experience Locations and Job Expectations
Participants in the Nedbank YES Programme will be placed in various Nedbank sites, offices, and branches across South Africa. Depending on the division, role, and job requirements, some individuals may have the option to work remotely or in a hybrid model.
Work schedules will vary depending on the department. Some roles may require weekday work, while others may include shift work that involves weekends and public holidays. This means that participants must be willing and able to commute to and from their assigned workplace.
Benefits of Joining the Nedbank YES Programme
The YES Programme offers a valuable stepping stone for young individuals seeking to gain work experience and enhance their career prospects. Key benefits of participating in the programme include:
- Workplace Readiness and Skills Development
- Participants gain on-the-job training in a professional setting.
- Exposure to real-world corporate environments builds confidence.
- The experience helps develop essential workplace skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Increased Employability
- Work experience significantly enhances a young person’s resume and job applications.
- Participants improve their chances of securing full-time employment in the future.
- Employers often prioritise candidates with practical experience over those with only theoretical knowledge.
- Financial Support and Stability
- A monthly stipend provides financial assistance to help participants manage their living costs.
- The stipend ensures that young employees can focus on gaining experience without financial pressure.
- Opportunities for Career Growth
- While the programme is not a permanent job placement, successful participants may network and establish connections that could lead to future employment.
- The experience gained at Nedbank, a leading financial institution, opens doors to opportunities in the banking and corporate sectors.
The Nedbank YES Programme is more than just a work opportunity; it is a life-changing experience for young South Africans looking to enter the workforce. By providing quality work exposure, financial support, and professional development, the programme equips participants with the tools they need to build successful careers.
For unemployed youth eager to gain experience and take a step toward financial independence, this programme is an ideal opportunity. With the initiative starting in June 2025, interested applicants should stay informed and be ready to apply once the application process opens.
Through its involvement in the YES Programme, Nedbank is not only investing in youth employment but also contributing to building stronger communities and transforming the South African workforce.
Check also: Absa Bank Junior Learnership Programme 2025