Are you an unemployed South African youth looking to break into the energy sector? Eskom, in partnership with the Presidency’s Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, has opened applications for its 2026 intake. The Siyabuswa Hub (LimLanga Cluster) is currently recruiting energetic learners for 12-month placements within the Retail and Customer Service department.
This programme is a critical part of South Africa’s national strategy to combat youth unemployment, offering first-time job seekers a foot in the door at the continent’s largest power utility. With the closing date of 2 March 2026 fast approaching, now is the time to prepare your application.
Eskom YES Programme 2026: Quick-View
| Feature | Details |
| Employer | Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd |
| Initiative | YES (Youth Employment Service) |
| Duration | 12 Months (Fixed-Term) |
| Location | Siyabuswa Hub (LimLanga Cluster) |
| Closing Date | 2 March 2026 |
| Reference No. | eskom_003522 |
What the Role Entails: Retail & Customer Service
As a YES Learner at the Siyabuswa Hub, you won’t just be “filling a seat.” You will be on the front lines of Eskom’s retail operations, gaining high-value experience in:
- Customer Engagement: Managing inquiries, resolving billing issues, and supporting the energy needs of the local Siyabuswa community.
- Operational Exposure: Learning the administrative and technical backend of how a national utility manages retail electricity services.
- Professional Readiness: Developing “soft skills” such as conflict resolution, professional communication, and digital literacy.
Mandatory Requirements: Do You Qualify?
To be considered for the eskom_003522 intake, candidates must strictly adhere to the following criteria:
- Identity & Age: Must be a South African citizen aged between 18 and 34.
- Education: A valid Grade 12 (Matric) certificate. You must have passed Mathematics or Mathematics Literacy.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in English is required, plus fluency in at least one other official South African language.
- YES Status: You must never have participated in a YES initiative before.
- Exclusivity: You must be currently unemployed and not enrolled in full-time studies for the duration of 2026.
Pro-Tips to Stand Out in the Eskom Selection Process
Since this intake is limited to three positions at the Siyabuswa Hub, competition will be fierce. Follow these strategic tips to improve your ranking:
- Local Advantage: Eskom prioritizes candidates residing within the LimLanga Cluster (Mpumalanga/Limpopo border). Ensure your CV clearly states your residential address in or near Siyabuswa.
- Retail Focus: Even if you haven’t had a formal job, highlight any volunteer work, school leadership, or community projects where you handled people and problem-solving.
- Digital Accuracy: The Eskom recruitment system uses automated filters. Ensure your ID number, Matric results, and contact details are 100% accurate. A blurry scan of your certificate can lead to an automatic disqualification.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
The application process is handled exclusively through the Eskom Careers Portal. No hand-delivered CVs will be accepted at the Hub.
- Visit the Eskom Careers Website.
- Search for Reference Number: eskom_003522.
- Upload your updated CV, certified ID copy, and Grade 12 certificate.
- Submit before the deadline: 2 March 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there a salary for the Eskom YES programme?
YES learners receive a monthly stipend as regulated by the YES initiative guidelines. While not a full “salary,” it is designed to cover transport and basic living expenses while you gain experience.
2. Can I apply if I have a Diploma or Degree?
Yes, as long as you meet the age and previous YES participation criteria. However, the minimum requirement is a Grade 12 certificate.
3. What happens after the 12 months?
While the YES programme does not guarantee permanent employment at Eskom, it provides you with a certificate of completion and a reference that significantly boosts your chances of being hired in the private and public sectors.
4. Why is the Siyabuswa Hub location specific?
Eskom’s YES hubs are designed to stimulate local economies. Hiring youth from the immediate area ensures that the skills gained stay within the community.
5. I participated in a YES programme at a bank last year; can I apply?
No. The YES initiative is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If you have been registered on the YES database previously, the system will filter out your application.
Hope Johnson
Hope Johnson is the Founder and Lead Content Editor of SETAWeb, a South Africa–based digital platform focused on education, SETA programmes, learnerships, bursaries, internships, and career opportunities. She has extensive experience researching, verifying, and publishing accurate information sourced from official SETAs, government departments, universities, and public sector institutions. Contact: [email protected]