Eskom Medupi Power Station is recruiting unemployed South African youth through the YES Programme 2026. Learn about the requirements, benefits, application process and how this 12-month opportunity can help launch your career.
Eskom YES Programme 2026: A Life-Changing Opportunity for Young South Africans
South Africa continues to face one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world, making work experience opportunities more valuable than ever. To help address this challenge, Eskom has partnered with the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative to provide unemployed young people with meaningful workplace exposure and practical experience.
Through the latest recruitment drive, Eskom Medupi Power Station in Lephalale, Limpopo, is inviting applications from eligible young South Africans for a 12-month Youth Employment Service (YES) opportunity. This programme offers participants the chance to gain workplace experience in administrative roles while building skills that can improve their future employability.
For many young people who have struggled to secure their first job, the YES Programme represents an important stepping stone into the world of work.
What Is the Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme?
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a national public-private initiative led by the South African Presidency to tackle youth unemployment.
The programme encourages businesses and organisations across the country to create work opportunities for unemployed youth, providing them with valuable workplace exposure and practical experience.
Eskom remains one of the key contributors to the initiative and continues to create opportunities for young people across its operations nationwide.
By participating in the YES Programme, candidates gain practical work experience, develop workplace skills and improve their chances of securing future employment.
Opportunity Available at Medupi Power Station
Eskom’s latest YES opportunity is based at Medupi Power Station, one of South Africa’s largest power generation facilities located in Lephalale, Limpopo.
Successful applicants will be appointed on a 12-month contract and will function in various administrative support roles within Eskom operations.
Position Details
- Programme: Youth Employment Service (YES)
- Employer: Eskom Medupi Power Station
- Location: Lephalale (Ellisras), Limpopo
- Contract Duration: 12 Months
- Position Type: Internship / Work Experience Opportunity
- Industry: Electricity, Energy and Water Supply
- Application Closing Date: 21 July 2026
The programme is designed specifically for unemployed youth seeking their first meaningful workplace experience.
Why This Opportunity Matters
One of the biggest challenges facing graduates and school leavers is the lack of practical work experience. Many employers require experience, but gaining that first opportunity can often be difficult.
The Eskom YES Programme aims to bridge this gap by giving young people exposure to professional working environments where they can learn, grow and contribute.
Participants can gain:
- Real workplace experience
- Professional development opportunities
- Exposure to South Africa’s energy sector
- Improved communication and teamwork skills
- Enhanced employability after programme completion
- Valuable references and work history
The experience gained can significantly strengthen future job applications and career prospects.
Skills and Competencies Eskom Is Looking For
Although prior experience is not required, Eskom is seeking candidates who demonstrate strong personal qualities and a willingness to learn.
Leadership Qualities
Applicants should be:
- Team players
- Cooperative and willing to collaborate
- Able to contribute positively within a team environment
Behavioural Competencies
Successful candidates should display:
- Integrity
- Professionalism
- Customer-focused behaviour
- Accountability
- Reliability
Essential Skills
Participants should possess:
- Good communication skills
- Strong interpersonal abilities
- Negotiation skills
- Liaising and relationship-building capabilities
Personal Attributes
Eskom is looking for individuals who are:
- Polite
- Energetic
- Prompt and reliable
- Self-motivated
- Assertive
- Eager to learn
These qualities are often more important than previous work experience when recruiting candidates for entry-level opportunities.
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Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the YES Programme at Eskom Medupi Power Station, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Citizenship
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
Age Requirement
Candidates must be:
- Between 18 and 34 years old
Educational Qualification
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 (Matric) or an equivalent qualification
This makes the programme accessible to many young South Africans who may not yet have tertiary qualifications.
Additional Eligibility Criteria
To ensure the programme benefits those most in need of workplace exposure, Eskom has outlined several important requirements.
Applicants:
- Must not have been permanently employed by a single employer for longer than one continuous year
- Must not be studying full-time during the year of employment
- Must not have participated in or registered for the YES Programme previously
- Must be willing to participate in Eskom’s recruitment and placement process
These criteria help ensure opportunities reach young people who have limited access to employment experience.
Working in South Africa’s Energy Sector
Joining Eskom provides participants with exposure to one of South Africa’s most important industries.
As the country’s primary electricity supplier, Eskom plays a critical role in powering homes, businesses, industries and public services.
Working within Eskom operations gives participants insight into:
- Corporate administration
- Energy sector operations
- Workplace procedures
- Professional communication
- Public sector service delivery
The knowledge and experience gained can be valuable across many different industries beyond the energy sector.
Eskom Recognised as a Top Employer
Adding to the appeal of this opportunity is Eskom’s recent recognition as a Top Employer South Africa 2026.
This prestigious certification highlights the organisation’s commitment to creating a supportive workplace environment that promotes:
- Employee growth
- Professional development
- Diversity and inclusion
- Workplace excellence
Receiving the certification for a second consecutive year demonstrates Eskom’s continued investment in its workforce and future talent development initiatives.
For young people entering the workplace for the first time, gaining experience within a recognised employer can provide a significant advantage.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official Eskom recruitment platform before the closing date.
Applicants are encouraged to prepare:
- An updated CV
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Identification documents
- Any supporting documentation required during the application process
Candidates should ensure all information is accurate and complete before submitting their applications.
Final Thoughts
The Eskom YES Programme 2026 at Medupi Power Station represents more than just a temporary work opportunity. It is a gateway for unemployed youth to gain practical experience, develop professional skills and build confidence in a structured workplace environment.
For young South Africans between the ages of 18 and 34 who hold a Grade 12 qualification and are looking for their first step into the job market, this programme could be the opportunity that opens the door to a brighter future.
With a 12-month contract, valuable workplace exposure and the chance to work within one of South Africa’s most important organisations, the Eskom YES Programme remains one of the most accessible and impactful youth employment initiatives available today.
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