The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) together with NRF–SAASTA invites unemployed South African graduates to apply for the National Youth Service (NYS) Graduate Programme 2026.
This 12-month opportunity is ideal for young people with qualifications in Science, Engineering, Technology, Journalism or Media Studies who want real experience, a monthly stipend, and a chance to contribute to science engagement in South Africa.
Quick Overview
Opportunity Name: DSTI – National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026
Who Can Apply? Unemployed Science, Engineering, Technology, Journalism & Media Studies graduates (ages 18–35)
Programme Duration: 12 Months
Start Date: April 2026
Closing Date: 31 January 2026
Stipend per Month:
NQF 6: R4 500
NQF 7: R5 000
NQF 8: R5 500
NQF 9: R6 500
NQF 10: R7 700
Application Link: https://seims.dsi.gov.za/nys/landing
Deployment Sectors:
Science centres, schools, biodiversity and conservation sites, botanical and zoological gardens, science engagement organisations, science councils, universities, TVET colleges, NPOs and media outlets.
Why the DSTI National Youth Service Programme Matters
Many graduates have the qualification, but not the experience, exposure or network to break into the job market. The DSTI–NYS programme is designed to close that gap.
Through this programme you will:
Gain hands-on work experience in real institutions
Build a strong CV while serving communities
Get exposure to STEM, journalism and media environments
Join a national movement that promotes science and technology engagement
Receive a monthly stipend while volunteering full-time
Instead of waiting at home for an opportunity, you become part of a structured national programme with clear learning, service and development goals.
About DSTI and NRF–SAASTA
Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI)
DSTI is the national department responsible for driving research, technology and innovation in South Africa. Its goal is to support a knowledge-based economy and strengthen the country’s scientific capability.
NRF–SAASTA (South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement)
SAASTA is a unit of the National Research Foundation (NRF) focused on:
Science engagement and outreach
STEM education and awareness
Youth development and empowerment
Together, DSTI and SAASTA use this programme to give young graduates a stepping stone into the world of science, technology, media and public engagement.
Who Can Apply for the DSTI – NYS Graduate Programme 2026?
You should apply if you:
Are a South African citizen
Are between 18 and 35 years old
Are unemployed
Have a completed qualification in one of the following fields:
Science
Engineering
Technology
Journalism
Communication or Media Studies
You may be placed at:
Schools and TVET colleges
Universities
Science centres and museums
Science councils
Biodiversity and conservation organisations
Botanical gardens and zoos
Non-profit science organisations
Community and other media outlets (for journalism/media graduates)
Monthly Stipend per Qualification Level
Your stipend depends on your highest NQF level:
National Diploma – NQF 6: R4 500 per month
Bachelor’s Degree / BTech – NQF 7: R5 000 per month
Honours – NQF 8: R5 500 per month
Master’s – NQF 9: R6 500 per month
PhD – NQF 10: R7 700 per month
This allows graduates at different academic levels to be compensated fairly while gaining experience.
Documents Needed for Your Application
You must upload clear, certified copies of the following:
Cover letter explaining why you want to join the programme
Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Certified copy of your ID
Certified copies of your qualification certificate(s) or academic transcripts
If your certificate is not yet issued, include a letter of completion from your institution
Updated contact details (cellphone and email)
Make sure all documents are recent, clearly scanned and correctly labelled.
How to Apply for the DSTI – National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026
Follow these steps to submit your application:
Visit the official application portal:
👉 Click here to apply for the DSTI – National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026
Register or log in
Create an account if you are a new user
Or log in with your existing details
Complete the online application form
Fill in all personal and academic information
Indicate your qualification and preferred deployment sector if requested
Upload all required documents
Cover letter
CV
Certified ID
Certified qualifications/transcripts
Letter of completion (if applicable)
Double-check your application
Ensure your information is correct
Check that all documents are attached
Submit before the closing date
Closing Date: 31 January 2026
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further screening and placement.
Contact Details
For enquiries about the programme, you can contact:
Contact Person: Mr Macdonald Kapu
Telephone: 012 392 9300
Email: MM.Kapu@saasta.nrf.ac.za
If you’d like, I can help you draft a strong motivational letter or a CV template specifically tailored for this DSTI – National Youth Service Graduate Programme 2026.