Eskom has officially opened applications for the Eskom YES Internship Programme 2026, offering unemployed South African youth an exciting opportunity to gain their first real workplace experience in the country’s energy sector. This programme forms part of the national Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, a public-private partnership led by the Presidency to tackle youth unemployment and create meaningful work exposure for young people.
If you are between 18 and 34 years old, eager to enter the job market, and looking for a chance to build skills and experience, then this could be the life-changing opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
Programme Overview
- Programme Name: Eskom YES Internship Programme 2026
- Company: Eskom
- Location: South Africa (All Provinces)
- Contract Duration: 12 months
- Closing Date: 17 February 2026
Eskom is offering successful candidates a 12-month contract to work at one of its operations across all South African provinces. The programme is designed to give young people a strong start by exposing them to real workplace responsibilities, professional environments, and skills development within one of the country’s most important industries.
About the YES Initiative
The Youth Employment Service (YES) is a national initiative created to address South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis. It provides unemployed youth with a structured opportunity to gain their first work experience, which is often the biggest barrier when trying to enter the job market. Through YES, Eskom is contributing by creating work opportunities for young South Africans who are ready to learn, grow, and contribute to the energy sector.
What Eskom Is Offering
By joining the Eskom YES Programme, participants will benefit from:
- A valuable 12-month work opportunity
- Exposure to the energy and utilities sector
- Practical workplace experience in a professional environment
- Skills development and personal growth
- Improved employability after completion of the programme
- A chance to work within Eskom operations across South Africa
This is not only a work opportunity, but also a platform for young people to build confidence, discipline, and experience that can open doors to future employment.
Who Should Apply?
Eskom is calling on young South Africans who are:
- Unemployed and eager to work
- Looking for their first real job experience
- Ready to learn and gain workplace exposure
- Passionate about entering the energy industry
- Committed to growth and professional development
Entry Requirements
To qualify for the Eskom YES Internship Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be aged between 18 and 34 years
- Must have Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent
- Applicants may also have a post-matric certificate/programme
- Must not have been permanently employed by one employer continuously for more than 1 year
- Must not be studying full-time during the year of employment
- Must not have participated or registered on the YES initiative before
Why You Should Consider This Opportunity
For many young people, the biggest challenge after finishing school or college is finding employment without experience. Eskom’s YES programme directly addresses that problem by offering a structured opportunity where youth can gain experience, build a CV, and develop workplace readiness. Working in Eskom also gives candidates a chance to understand how one of South Africa’s most critical industries operates, while learning skills that can be useful across many career fields.
How to Apply
NB. Use the links given below to Apply
Location: Kwazulu Natal
Closing date: 13 February 2026
Apply Online for the Eskom Youth Employment Programme
Location: Eastern Cape
Closing date: 17 February 2026
Apply Online for the Eskom: Youth Employment Programme
Location: Western Cape
Closing date: 12 February 2026
Apply Online for the Eskom: Youth Employment Programme
Location: Free State
Closing date: 17 February 2026
Apply Online for the Eskom: Youth Employment Programme
Final Thoughts
The Eskom YES Internship Programme 2026 is a powerful opportunity for young South Africans who want to enter the job market and gain meaningful work experience. With a 12-month contract, exposure to Eskom operations across all provinces, and the chance to build skills in the energy sector, this programme is an excellent stepping stone toward long-term employment. If you meet the requirements, don’t hesitate—apply before the closing date and take the first step toward building your career.
