Imagine a chance for young South Africans to gain real skills in construction, earn a daily stipend, and get hands-on work experience—all for free. The NYS Technical Training and WIL Opportunities 2026 provide exactly that for unemployed youth aged 18 to 35. This programme links training to a live project, helping participants build a path into technical careers.
What Does the Programme Offer?
The National Youth Service (NYS) Programme is part of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). It focuses on the built environment sector, like construction and infrastructure. Participants get practical skills, accredited learning, and time on a real job site for the Construction of Ermelo Labour Centre.
Unlike basic workshops, this mixes classroom lessons with daily work. It lasts 9 to 12 months and takes only 30 people. At the end, you receive exit support and starter tools to keep going.
Quick Overview of Key Details
Here are the main facts:
- Programme Name: National Youth Service Technical Training and Work-Integrated Learning Programme
- Total Spots: 30 participants
- Duration: 9 to 12 months
- Qualification: Learnership in Building and Civil Construction, NQF Level 3 (SAQA ID 65409)
- Stipend: R150 per day, covers transport too
- Age Range: 18 to 35 years
- Closing Date: 30 April 2026
Act fast since spots fill up quick.
The Two Training Streams
The programme splits into two paths to fit different needs. One builds skills from scratch. The other helps students finish their studies.
Learnership Stream
This takes 15 participants for a full 12-month learnership. It teaches entry-level construction skills like civil works, bricklaying, carpentry, painting, plastering, paving, and general techniques. No prior experience needed—just a willingness to learn.
You earn your NQF Level 3 qualification while working on the project. This stream suits unemployed youth ready for a solid start in the field.
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Stream
Also for 15 participants, this 12-month placement aids students from universities, universities of technology, or TVET colleges. Fields include civil engineering, building, or national diploma in civil engineering.
You need a letter from your school proving you finished theory and require work time to graduate. It bridges the gap from classroom to job-ready status.
Stipend and Daily Support
Everyone gets R150 per day. This covers training time, transport, and active involvement. It’s not a full-time salary but enough to focus without worry.
The funding helps you commit fully over the months.
Who Should Apply?
Targeted at unemployed youth interested in construction or technical trades. You fit if you meet the age, have Grade 12 or equal, and can start right away. Live near Ermelo? You get preference.
WIL stream is for current students in related fields needing placement.
Minimum Requirements
All applicants need:
- South African ID
- Unemployed status
- Age 18-35
- Grade 12 minimum
- Full-time availability
WIL candidates add proof of study completion and need for training. No current jobs or full studies allowed, except qualifying WIL.
Pick the right stream to match your background.
Required Documents
Submit these for a full application:
- CV
- Completed form
- Certified ID copy
- Certified qualification copies
- Proof of residence (municipal)
WIL adds institution letter for in-service training.
Check everything twice. Incomplete packs get skipped.
Where to Get and Submit Forms
Pick up forms at Msukaligwa Local Municipality or Department of Employment and Labour, 14 Declerck Street, Ermelo.
Hand in at Department of Employment and Labour, Ermelo.
Selection Process
Follows EPWP goals: 85% from disadvantaged groups, 50% women, 1% disabled persons, 1% ex-offenders. Fair chance for many.
Key Notes for Applicants
This is training, not a permanent job. Expect classroom and site work. Be ready to start soon after pick.
No word in two weeks past 30 April 2026? Assume not selected.
Why Pursue This Opportunity?
It beats short courses by adding real work, pay, qualification, and tools. Youth gain employability in high-demand areas like construction. Practical steps lead to better job odds.
Tips to Boost Your Application
Update your CV clear and sharp. Get fresh certified copies. Match your stream perfectly—learnership for new skills, WIL for student placement.
Prepare early. A solid pack stands out.