South Africa’s largest power utility, Eskom, has officially launched its YES 2025 Internship Programme, targeting Grade 12 graduates and unemployed youth across the country. This opportunity is part of the broader Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative aimed at combating youth unemployment by providing structured workplace experience. With over 1,000 positions available nationwide and a monthly stipend of R3,800, this programme could be a life-changing gateway into the formal job market for young South Africans. The internship not only equips candidates with real-world job skills but also opens the door to future full-time employment, both within Eskom and the broader energy and infrastructure sector. Applications are open throughout July 2025, and those selected will be placed in various Eskom departments for 12 months, gaining invaluable hands-on training.
What Is the Eskom YES 2025 Internship Programme?
The Eskom YES 2025 Internship is a government-supported youth employment initiative designed to empower Grade 12 graduates by providing paid work experience in one of the country’s most crucial sectors — energy and infrastructure.
Key points about the programme:
- Specifically for South African youth aged 18–34
- Focused on empowering unemployed matriculants
- 12-month structured internship with training and mentorship
- Interns receive a stipend of R3,800 per month
- Application open to all provinces
- No prior work experience required
- Includes soft skills development and exposure to professional environments
The goal is not just to provide a temporary job, but to create employability and future readiness for long-term careers.
Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Criteria for 2025 Intake
To ensure transparency and accessibility, Eskom has released the full eligibility requirements for the YES 2025 intake. This section outlines who qualifies and what documents are needed.
Minimum Requirements
- Must be a South African citizen (with valid SA ID)
- Aged between 18 and 34 years
- Must have completed Grade 12 (Matric certificate required)
- Currently unemployed and not studying
- No previous permanent work experience
- Must not be currently involved in any other YES initiative
Required Documents
- Certified copy of SA ID (not older than 3 months)
- Certified copy of Matric Certificate
- Updated CV (with contact details and address)
- Proof of residence (municipal account or signed affidavit)
- SARS tax number (can be obtained free from SARS)
Make sure all documents are scanned clearly and correctly named before uploading.
Provincial Internship Availability – Full Table Breakdown
Eskom has allocated internship slots across all nine provinces to ensure national coverage. Below is a breakdown of how many opportunities are available per region.
| Province | Internship Slots | Location Hubs | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | 280 | Johannesburg, Midrand | 30 July 2025 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 150 | Durban, Richards Bay | 30 July 2025 |
| Western Cape | 120 | Cape Town, George | 30 July 2025 |
| Eastern Cape | 110 | East London, Mthatha | 30 July 2025 |
| Limpopo | 100 | Polokwane, Thohoyandou | 30 July 2025 |
| Mpumalanga | 90 | Nelspruit, Witbank | 30 July 2025 |
| North West | 70 | Mahikeng, Rustenburg | 30 July 2025 |
| Northern Cape | 40 | Kimberley | 30 July 2025 |
| Free State | 40 | Bloemfontein | 30 July 2025 |
This table makes it clear that opportunities are fairly distributed, with focus on areas with high youth unemployment.
How to Apply for Eskom YES 2025 Internship Online
Eskom has simplified the application process by enabling a user-friendly online portal where candidates can register and apply directly.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official Eskom YES application portal: www.eskom.co.za/YES2025
- Create a new account using your email and mobile number
- Upload all required documents (ID, Matric certificate, CV, proof of residence)
- Fill in your personal and educational information accurately
- Choose your preferred province and Eskom hub
- Submit your application and note your reference number
Important Tips:
- Apply early to avoid system traffic near the deadline
- Ensure your documents are clear and certified
- Only one application per person is allowed
- Keep your phone active for possible interview calls
What Interns Will Learn – Key Skills & Benefits
Interns placed under the YES 2025 programme are guaranteed robust workplace exposure that includes both technical and non-technical development.
Benefits of the Internship
- R3,800 monthly stipend for 12 months
- Work-based learning in technical departments
- Soft skills training (communication, problem-solving, teamwork)
- Mentorship from industry professionals
- Certificate of completion to add to your CV
- Networking opportunities with senior staff and HR
- Possibility of full-time job placement after completion
This initiative acts as a launchpad into long-term career paths in engineering, maintenance, IT, and project management within Eskom or the energy sector.
Available Internship Departments and Functions
Depending on the region and department, interns will be placed into various job functions, both office-based and technical.
| Department/Function | Type of Work | Training Provided |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Maintenance | Assist technicians with site repairs | Basic electrical safety |
| Human Resources | Filing, data entry, onboarding support | Workplace ethics |
| Customer Services | Call centre and query handling | Customer communication |
| Administration | Document scanning, scheduling | Microsoft Office tools |
| IT Support | Desktop troubleshooting, logging issues | System software basics |
| Finance | Invoices, basic accounting support | Budgeting & reporting |
| Environmental Management | Field monitoring, data collection | Eco-regulations training |
| Stores & Logistics | Stock counts, deliveries | Inventory control basics |
Applicants can specify preferred departments during the application process based on their interests.
Key Dates to Remember – 2025 YES Internship Calendar
Make sure to mark these important dates in your calendar so you don’t miss out on the opportunity.
| Activity | Date Range |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 5 July 2025 |
| Applications Close | 30 July 2025 |
| Shortlisting & Interviews Begin | 5 August 2025 |
| Final Selection Notice | 18 August 2025 |
| Internship Programme Starts | 1 September 2025 |
| Internship Ends | 31 August 2026 |
Staying updated and checking your emails regularly during the shortlisting period is crucial.
The Eskom YES 2025 Internship Programme is more than just a job – it’s a stepping stone toward stability, skills, and self-confidence for thousands of South African youth. If you’ve completed your Matric and are struggling to enter the job market, this opportunity could be your breakthrough moment. The programme’s structured training, monthly stipend, and national reach make it one of the most impactful employment solutions for young people in South Africa today. Don’t delay — apply before 30 July and take the first step toward your career future.
FAQs – Eskom YES 2025 Internship
Q1: Can I apply without a Matric certificate?
No, only candidates who have completed Grade 12 (Matric) are eligible to apply.
Q2: Is there any cost to apply?
No, applying to the Eskom YES 2025 Internship is completely free.
Q3: Will I get a job after the internship?
While there is no guarantee, many interns are offered permanent positions or gainful employment elsewhere due to the experience gained.
Q4: Can I apply if I’ve done another YES internship before?
No, the programme is open only to candidates who have never participated in a YES initiative.
Q5: What if I don’t receive any email after applying?
Wait until after the shortlisting period. If no communication is received by 18 August, you may consider your application unsuccessful.
