The National Youth Service Programme is a flagship government initiative under the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention, led by the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA). Its core objective is to mobilise young South Africans to become active citizens through structured and paid community service that contributes to nation building.
As an Implementing Partner, Seriti Institute provides unemployed youth with an opportunity to engage in meaningful, socially valuable work that enhances public service delivery, builds practical skills, and improves their chances of securing long-term employment, self-employment, or further learning—while earning a monthly stipend.
Over a six-month period, youth participants are placed in local organisations and projects aligned to key development sectors such as Early Childhood Development (ECD), agriculture, just energy transition, community outreach, and digital innovation.
These placements are designed to:
Through the NYS Programme, Seriti is not only investing in youth potential but also contributing to a stronger, more inclusive and responsive society.
Since joining the NYS Programme in 2022, Seriti has created over 7,000 work opportunities for unemployed youth across 142 communities in all nine provinces of South Africa. Through the programme, youth participants have:
Through this work, we are not only investing in youth potential but also building more resilient communities and a stronger, more inclusive South Africa.
Impact Stories
“Finding a job was challenging after I finished matric, as most employers required experience. A friend told me about the NYS program, and since I’ve always been passionate about helping others, I decided to join. The experience has been incredible! I’ve gained so much knowledge, particularly through the ECD program. Not only have I benefited, but I can now teach my niece what I’ve learned, like book-sharing, which I didn’t know before. It’s been amazing watching her engage with stories and lead activities. This program has brought positive change to my life and my family’s. The stipend has helped provide food for my family, which has made a significant difference. I now feel confident in my ability to care for and teach children in fun and meaningful ways.”
– Nozizwe Nyembezi
‘’Finding job opportunities was difficult due to my limited experience and the no responses to my applications. After learning about the NYS program through Seriti Institute, I was excited to join and build new skills. The Early Childhood Development training was an invaluable experience. I learned how to enhance childcare practices in both Edu-care centres and households. For instance, I was able to guide one household in supporting a child’s mental and physical growth, focusing on nutrition and wellness.
The program also taught me how to effectively communicate with children and support them in living a healthy lifestyle. I gained skills in encouraging children to explore through activities like reading, writing, and play. The stipend made a huge difference in covering my basic needs. I’m grateful for the skills and knowledge I’ve gained, and I now have a much deeper understanding of childcare development.’’
– Mbali Dlamini
‘’I faced challenges finding a job, often walking long distances to submit my CV. Being part of the NYS program has given me valuable experience, especially in working with children, and sparked a passion for supporting disadvantaged families. The stipend has been a great help, allowing me to pay for my son’s school fees and buy groceries. I now have a deeper understanding of how to care for children from different households, making me a more confident and capable caregiver. ‘’
– Khensani Magonare
