A clear guide to the PSIRA YES Programme 2026, including fields, stipends, locations, requirements, and how graduates can apply before 16 January.
For many South African graduates, the hardest part isn’t studying — it’s what comes after. Degrees are completed, diplomas are framed, yet months pass without work experience. The PSIRA YES Programme 2026 arrives in this exact moment of uncertainty.
PSIRA YES Programme 2026 -Overview
This programme offers something many young people urgently need: paid, structured workplace experience in government-linked environments. It’s not permanent employment, but it can be a critical bridge between qualification and career.
Why the PSIRA YES Programme Matters Right Now
Youth unemployment remains one of South Africa’s most pressing realities. Graduates often hear the same response: “You need experience.” The PSIRA YES Programme is designed to address that gap directly.
Running for 12 months, the programme places unemployed graduates across multiple provinces and disciplines. Participants gain daily exposure to real systems, compliance processes, and public-sector workflows — experience that is difficult to get without an entry point.
Unlike many short-term placements, this programme includes a monthly stipend aligned to qualification level, making participation financially possible.
Who the Programme Is Designed For
The PSIRA YES Programme is aimed at unemployed graduates who already hold formal qualifications but lack workplace exposure.
You should consider applying if you:
- Are unemployed
- Hold an NQF Level 6, 7, or 8 qualification
- Can commit to 12 months full-time
- Want government or regulatory experience on your CV
No prior work experience is required. The programme is intentionally structured for graduates at the beginning of their careers, not seasoned professionals.
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Fields, Locations, and What Graduates Will Actually Do
One of the programme’s strengths is its wide range of fields. Opportunities span administration, finance, IT, HR, legal services, supply chain, research, communications, OHS, law enforcement support, and more.
Placements are spread across provinces including Gauteng, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Free State. Many specialised roles are based in Centurion, while administrative programmes extend to regional offices.
Day-to-day work varies by field but often includes:
- Administrative and compliance support
- Data capturing, reporting, and record-keeping
- Research assistance and analysis
- Client or public-facing service
- Internal systems and process coordination
This is not simulated training. Graduates work within functioning units, supporting real teams with real responsibilities.
How the Stipend Works and Why It Matters
Financial pressure is one of the biggest barriers preventing graduates from accepting internships. PSIRA addresses this directly.
Monthly stipends are set as follows:
- NQF 6: R5 000
- NQF 7: R6 000
- NQF 8: R7 000
While this may not cover all living costs, it acknowledges that graduates cannot work full-time for free. The stipend allows participants to focus on learning rather than survival.
For official programme information, applicants should always cross-check details with the authority itself.
👉 External link: Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA)
What Comes After the 12 Months End
The PSIRA YES Programme does not promise permanent employment. That honesty matters.
What it does offer is:
- Recognised workplace experience
- Government and compliance exposure
- Professional references
- Improved competitiveness for future roles
Many YES participants go on to secure:
- Government internships or graduate programmes
- Permanent admin or clerk roles
- Municipal or SOE placements
- Private-sector roles aligned to their field
For graduates who have been stuck outside the job market, this experience can reset their trajectory.
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For guidance on preparing for graduate programmes, see our internal resource on how to tailor a CV for public-sector roles.
👉 Internal link: Graduate CV Guide for Government Roles
Applying Carefully Makes a Difference
Applications close on 16 January 2026, and competition is expected.
Graduates should:
- Apply only where qualifications clearly match
- Tailor CVs to the specific field
- Highlight admin, systems, compliance, or research skills
- Be realistic about location and availability
Rushing applications often leads to rejection. This programme rewards alignment more than volume.
How to Apply
APPLY FOR THE PSIRA YES PROGRAMME IN VARIOUS FIELDS 2026 HERE
Frequently Asked Questions About the PSIRA YES Programme
Is this a permanent job?
No. It is a 12-month YES Programme focused on work experience.
Can I apply for more than one field?
It’s advised to apply only where your qualification clearly fits.
Do I need work experience?
No. The programme is designed for graduates with limited or no experience.
Is the stipend guaranteed?
Yes, if you are accepted and actively participate.
What is the closing date?
Applications close on 16 January 2026.
Final Reflection
The PSIRA YES Programme 2026 is not a miracle solution to unemployment. But for many graduates, it is something just as important — a fair starting point. In a system where experience often determines opportunity, this programme offers a structured way in.
For those willing to commit and learn, it can be the step that finally moves a CV from “qualified” to “employable.”
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