Nedbank YES Programme in South Africa 2026: 12-Month Paid Youth Work Experience
Nedbank YES Programme in South Africa 2026 Opens for Youth Applications
Nedbank has once again said YES to youth employment by participating in the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026, a national initiative aimed at tackling youth unemployment in South Africa.
The Nedbank YES Programme in South Africa 2026 provides unemployed young people with the opportunity to gain 12 months of meaningful, paid work experience within one of the country’s leading financial institutions. The programme focuses on skills development, workplace exposure, and improving long-term employability.
This opportunity is ideal for young South Africans who are eager to enter the formal workforce, build confidence, and gain experience in a professional environment.
What Is the YES Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a business-led partnership between the private sector and government. Its main goal is to reduce youth unemployment by placing young people in quality work environments where they can develop practical and transferable skills.
Through YES, participating companies like Nedbank create short-term employment opportunities that:
- Provide real workplace exposure
- Improve job readiness and work discipline
- Increase future employability
- Support economic inclusion
It is important to note that the YES Programme is not a learnership, internship, or apprenticeship. Instead, it focuses on practical work experience across different business functions.
Who Can Apply for the Nedbank YES Programme 2026?
To be eligible for the Nedbank YES Programme in South Africa 2026, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be between 18 and 29 years old as of 1 May 2026
(Born between 2 May 1997 and 1 May 2008) - Be currently unemployed
- Hold at least a Matric (Grade 12) certificate
OR have completed a post-matric qualification at:- NQF Level 5 (Higher Certificate)
- NQF Level 6 (Diploma)
- NQF Level 7 (Advanced Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree)
- Be a South African-born African, Coloured, or Indian citizen, in line with the BBBEE Act definition of “black people”
- Must not have participated in a YES Programme with another organisation before
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee placement, as selection depends on availability and Nedbank’s operational needs.
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How Long Is the Nedbank YES Programme?
Successful candidates will be employed on a 12-month fixed-term contract.
Programme Start Date
01 May 2026
During this period, YES participants will gain structured workplace exposure, develop professional skills, and build a work history that can support future job applications.
Is the Nedbank YES Programme Paid?
Yes. Participants in the Nedbank YES Programme 2026 will receive a monthly stipend, guided by the official YES Programme framework.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR Nedbank YES Programme 2026
The stipend is intended to assist with:
- Transport costs
- Food and basic living expenses
- Work-related needs
While the stipend is not a salary, it provides financial support throughout the 12-month programme.
Where Will the Work Experience Take Place?
Nedbank YES youth will be placed at various Nedbank sites across South Africa, including:
- Bank branches
- Corporate offices
- Operational departments
Some roles may offer:
- Hybrid work arrangements
- Limited remote work options
Depending on the role and division, participants may be required to:
- Work weekdays
- Work shifts, which may include weekends or public holidays
Applicants must be able to travel to and from the workplace as required.
What Kind of Experience Will YES Youth Gain?
While roles differ across departments, participants can expect to gain experience in:
- Office administration
- Client service and support
- Data handling and reporting
- Team collaboration and communication
- Workplace professionalism and time management
These skills are transferable and valuable across many industries, not only banking.
Why the Nedbank YES Programme Matters
South Africa continues to face high youth unemployment, especially among first-time job seekers. Programmes like YES help bridge the gap between education and employment by giving young people:
- Their first formal work experience
- Exposure to a professional corporate environment
- Skills that improve long-term career prospects
- A credible reference for future employment
For many participants, YES becomes a stepping stone into further opportunities, either within Nedbank or elsewhere in the job market.
Important Things to Know Before Applying
- The YES Programme does not guarantee permanent employment
- Only shortlisted candidates are contacted
- Applicants may be required to complete assessments
- Accurate contact details are essential
- Fraudulent or incomplete applications are disqualified
Final Thoughts
The Nedbank YES Programme in South Africa 2026 is a valuable opportunity for unemployed youth to gain real-world work experience, earn a monthly stipend, and improve their chances of securing future employment.
For young South Africans who meet the eligibility criteria and are serious about building a work record, this programme offers a practical and meaningful entry point into the formal economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Nedbank YES Programme a learnership or internship?
No. It is a 12-month work experience programme, not a learnership, internship, or apprenticeship.
2. Do I need work experience to apply?
No prior work experience is required.
3. Will I get a permanent job at Nedbank after the programme?
Permanent employment is not guaranteed, but the experience improves employability.
4. Is the programme available nationwide?
Yes. Placements are offered across various Nedbank locations in South Africa.
5. Can I apply if I participated in another YES programme before?
No. Applicants must not have participated in a YES Programme with another organisation.
I writes about SETA opportunities in South Africa, focusing on learnerships, internships, bursaries, and skills development programs. My goal is to provide clear, reliable information that helps students and job seekers access funded career opportunities.
