Youth Employment Service Learnership Programme 2025/2026 – Your Path to a Brighter Career
Unemployment remains one of South Africa’s biggest challenges, especially among young people. The Youth Employment Service Learnership Programme (YES Programme) offers a real solution. This initiative helps bridge the gap between education and employment by providing young South Africans with valuable work experience and accredited training.
For 2025/2026, Nedbank has once again opened applications for the YES Youth – Contact Centre Learnership Programme. If you are an ambitious young South African looking for your first career opportunity, this programme is your chance to gain professional skills and start building your future.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from eligibility and benefits to application steps and insider tips to boost your chances of success.
About the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme
The Youth Employment Service (YES) is a national initiative launched in partnership with the South African government and private sector organizations. Its goal is to give young South Africans aged 18 to 35 access to workplace training, mentorship, and job opportunities.
The programme was designed to tackle youth unemployment and give learners hands-on experience in real working environments. Through partnerships with leading companies like Nedbank, the YES Programme creates pathways for thousands of unemployed youth to gain valuable skills that make them employable in today’s competitive job market.
YES isn’t just another learnership — it’s a life-changing opportunity that provides both professional and personal growth. Participants receive formal training and on-the-job experience in dynamic sectors such as banking, finance, customer service, and more.
About Nedbank’s YES Youth Learnership 2025/2026
Nedbank is one of South Africa’s leading financial institutions. As part of its commitment to social development and youth empowerment, the bank is inviting unemployed young people to apply for the YES Youth – Contact Centre Learnership Programme 2025/2026.
This learnership combines theoretical training with practical workplace exposure in a contact centre environment, helping participants develop strong communication, client service, and problem-solving skills.
Key Details
- Learnership Name: Nedbank YES Youth – Contact Centre Learnership
- Reference Number: REQ 142948
- Closing Date: 14 November 2025
- Duration: 12 months
- Location: Various Nedbank branches and service centres across South Africa
- Type: Fixed-term Learnership Contract
Who Should Apply for the Nedbank YES Learnership
This learnership is ideal for young South Africans who are passionate about customer service, communication, and working in a corporate environment. It’s also perfect for those who want to start a career in banking or financial services but lack formal work experience.
If you are hardworking, eager to learn, and committed to personal growth, this opportunity could open doors to a stable and fulfilling career.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the Nedbank YES Youth Learnership, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must hold a Grade 12 / National Senior Certificate.
- Must be aged 18–29 years old (born between November 1995 and November 2007).
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be currently unemployed.
- Must not be enrolled in any other learnership, internship, or employment programme.
- Must be willing to commit to a full 12-month programme.
- Must have good communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Must have a positive attitude, be reliable, and show a willingness to learn.
While previous customer service experience is an advantage, it’s not a requirement. Nedbank provides full training, ensuring that all learners are ready to perform effectively within the contact centre environment.
Programme Structure and Learning Outcomes
The Nedbank YES Youth Learnership runs for 12 months and combines classroom-based theoretical learning with practical, hands-on experience.
Participants receive National Qualifications Framework (NQF) accredited training, ensuring they gain both skills and certification that are recognized across South Africa.
Theoretical Learning Includes:
- Introduction to banking and financial services
- Customer service and client relationship management
- Telephone and digital communication skills
- Problem-solving and conflict resolution
- Basic sales and marketing principles
- Data capturing and information processing
- Workplace ethics and professional behavior
Practical Experience Covers:
- Handling customer calls and inquiries
- Managing client complaints and service requests
- Assisting in account administration
- Supporting various banking functions
- Working in a fast-paced team environment
This combination of learning and doing helps participants build confidence, develop professionalism, and gain experience that employers value.
Benefits of Joining the YES Learnership Programme
Participating in the Youth Employment Service Learnership comes with several advantages that can shape your future:
- Accredited Qualification – Earn a recognized NQF certificate upon successful completion.
- Work Experience – Gain practical experience in one of South Africa’s top financial institutions.
- Monthly Stipend – Receive a fair monthly allowance while you learn.
- Career Growth – Improve your employability and open the door to future job opportunities.
- Personal Development – Build confidence, teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.
This learnership does more than provide training; it helps you grow into a professional who can thrive in any work environment.
How to Apply for the Youth Employment Service Learnership Programme 2025/2026
Applying for the Nedbank YES Youth Learnership is simple. Follow the steps below carefully to ensure a successful submission.
Step 1: Visit the Official Nedbank Careers Portal
Go to the official Nedbank careers page at www.nedbank.co.za/careers.
Step 2: Search for Learnership Opportunities
Use the search bar to find “YES Youth Learnership – Contact Centre (REQ 142948).”
Step 3: Create an Account
If you’re a new user, register your profile with your personal details, email address, and password.
Step 4: Complete the Application Form
Fill in your educational background, personal details, and work experience (if any). Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents
You’ll need to upload:
- A certified copy of your ID
- A certified copy of your Matric certificate
- Your updated CV
- Any additional documents (optional but helpful, such as short course certificates)
Step 6: Review and Submit
Double-check all details before submitting your application. You will receive a confirmation email once your application is received.
Selection Process
The selection process is transparent and fair. After submitting your application, shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the following stages:
- Screening: Verification of qualifications and eligibility.
- Assessments: Basic aptitude and communication tests.
- Interviews: A short interview with the HR team or contact centre manager.
- Final Selection: Successful applicants will be notified and given a start date.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Being Selected
- Make sure your CV is professional, clear, and free from spelling mistakes.
- Prepare for your interview by learning about Nedbank and its values.
- Be confident, positive, and show enthusiasm for learning.
- Mention any volunteer work, leadership roles, or short courses — they help you stand out.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute system delays.
Why the YES Programme Is Important for South Africa
The Youth Employment Service (YES) plays a critical role in reducing youth unemployment and driving economic growth. By partnering with companies like Nedbank, the programme gives thousands of young people a chance to gain work experience that can change their lives.
Each year, YES helps bridge the gap between education and employment by providing structured workplace learning, mentorship, and professional exposure. These opportunities build skills, boost confidence, and improve long-term employability.
The impact of YES reaches far beyond individual learners — it strengthens communities and supports national development goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What qualification will I get from this learnership?
You’ll receive an NQF-accredited qualification in customer service or contact centre operations, depending on your learning stream.
2. Is there a fee to apply?
No. Applications for the YES Learnership are completely free.
3. Will I get paid?
Yes, all participants receive a monthly stipend to cover transport and basic expenses.
4. Can I apply if I’m still studying?
No. You must be unemployed and not studying full-time to qualify.
5. What happens after completing the learnership?
While employment is not guaranteed, many learners secure permanent positions within Nedbank or other partner companies based on performance.
Final Thoughts
The Youth Employment Service Learnership Programme 2025/2026 is a gateway to a better future. With South Africa’s youth unemployment rate still high, opportunities like this can transform lives.
By joining Nedbank’s YES Youth – Contact Centre Learnership, you’re not just gaining skills — you’re building a foundation for lifelong career success. The combination of training, mentorship, and real work experience prepares you to thrive in any professional setting.
If you’re ready to take control of your career, visit the Nedbank website and apply before 14 November 2025. This could be the start of something extraordinary.
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