The Nedbank YES Programme 2026 has officially opened, offering unemployed young South Africans an important opportunity to gain real workplace experience in the banking and corporate environment. The programme forms part of Nedbank’s continued partnership with the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, which aims to reduce youth unemployment across the country.
By saying YES once again, Nedbank is creating paid workplace experience opportunities that help young people build practical skills, confidence, and exposure needed to enter the formal job market. For many participants, this programme could be the first real step toward long-term employment.
The Nedbank YES Programme 2026 is aimed at unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 29 who are eager to gain meaningful work experience. With placements across South Africa and a monthly stipend provided, the programme offers both learning and financial support during the 12-month contract period.
Understanding the Nedbank YES Programme
The Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme is a business-led collaboration between the private sector and government, designed to address South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis. Through this initiative, companies create quality workplace opportunities where young people can gain hands-on experience in real working environments.
Unlike traditional learnerships or internships, the YES Programme focuses specifically on workplace exposure. Participants are placed in real roles where they learn by doing, develop professional habits, and understand how organisations operate on a daily basis.
Nedbank’s involvement in the YES Programme reflects its commitment to building communities, supporting economic transformation, and empowering South African youth. For many young people, the YES Programme becomes their first formal job experience, making it a critical stepping stone into future employment.
Unemployed graduates can also explore the latest opportunities through City of uMhlathuze vacancies 2026, which include multiple graduate positions at Prince Buthelezi Mall
Who Can Apply for the Nedbank YES Programme 2026
The Nedbank YES Programme 2026 is open to South African youth who meet specific eligibility requirements. Applicants must be between 18 and 29 years old by the programme start date of 1 May 2026. This means applicants must have been born between 2 May 1997 and 1 May 2008.
Applicants must have at least a Matric (Grade 12) qualification. Youth with post-matric qualifications are also encouraged to apply, including those with NQF Level 5 Higher Certificates, NQF Level 6 Diplomas, or NQF Level 7 qualifications such as Advanced Diplomas or Bachelor’s Degrees.
In addition, applicants must be currently unemployed, not studying full-time, and not participating in another YES Programme. Candidates must also not have previously taken part in any YES initiative. The programme specifically targets South African youth classified as African, Coloured, or Indian, in line with the BBBEE Act.
If you planning to continue their studies may also benefit from the FASSET bursary programme 2026, which offers financial support for top matric achievers pursuing finance and accounting careers.
Programme Duration and Start Date
Successful applicants will be appointed on a 12-month fixed-term contract, providing them with a full year of structured workplace experience. The official start date for the Nedbank YES Programme 2026 is 01 May 2026.
This 12-month period allows participants to build skills gradually, gain confidence in a professional environment, and improve their employability. It is important to note that the YES Programme is not a learnership, internship, or apprenticeship, but a workplace experience programme designed to prepare youth for long-term employment.
Monthly Stipend and Financial Support
Participants in the Nedbank YES Programme 2026 will receive a monthly stipend in line with YES Programme guidelines. The stipend is intended to assist with basic living expenses such as transport, food, and work-related costs while participants gain experience.
Although the stipend is not the same as a full corporate salary, it provides important financial support. For many young people, this will be their first professional income, helping them take a step toward financial independence while building their careers.
For updates on employment opportunities, and government support, visit our Grants & Jobs for the latest verified information.
Where Participants Will Be Placed
Youth selected for the Nedbank YES Programme 2026 will be placed across Nedbank branches, corporate offices, and business units throughout South Africa. Depending on the role, some placements may offer hybrid or remote working options, although this will vary.
Work schedules may include weekdays, shift work, weekends, or public holidays, depending on operational requirements. Participants must therefore be able to travel to and from their assigned workplace.
Skills Gained Through the Programme
The Nedbank YES Programme focuses strongly on workplace readiness and personal development. Participants can expect to gain valuable skills such as professional communication, customer service experience, corporate etiquette, teamwork, and collaboration.
In addition, youth will develop digital, administrative, and problem-solving skills, along with time management and adaptability. These skills are transferable across many industries, not only banking, making the programme valuable even beyond the financial sector.
How to Apply for the Nedbank YES Programme 2026
Applications for the Nedbank YES Programme 2026 must be submitted through the official application platform provided by Nedbank and the YES initiative. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early and ensure that all required information is correctly submitted.
Only applications that meet all eligibility requirements will be considered. Youth who are serious about gaining work experience in a professional banking environment are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.
APPLY FOR THE NEDBANK YES PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Final Thoughts
The opening of the Nedbank YES Programme 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for unemployed young South Africans to gain meaningful workplace experience. With a 12-month placement, monthly stipend, and exposure to the banking and corporate environment, the programme offers a strong foundation for future employment.
Eligible youth who meet the criteria are encouraged to apply and take the first step toward building skills, confidence, and long-term career opportunities.
Rajani Kant
Content Writer | South Africa & Namibia
Rajani Kant is an experienced content writer with over 7 years of expertise
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