Young South Africans often face a difficult challenge when entering the job market. Many employers want candidates with workplace experience, yet most young people struggle to get their first opportunity.
The Solareff YES Programme 2026 aims to help bridge that gap by offering unemployed youth a chance to gain valuable workplace exposure through the national Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative.
This 12-month fixed-term opportunity is designed to provide practical experience, professional development, and exposure to real business environments. While the programme does not lead to a qualification or certification, it gives participants an opportunity to build workplace skills that can strengthen future job applications.
Overview of the Solareff YES Programme 2026
Programme Details
Information
Company
Solareff
Programme
YES Programme 2026
Reference Number
SOL260529-1
Location
Roodepoort, Gauteng
Duration
12 Months
Positions Available
14
Department
Finance and Various Operational Departments
Job Category
Administrative
Minimum Qualification
Grade 12 / National Certificate
Age Requirement
18–34 Years
Closing Date
03 June 2026
What Is the Solareff YES Programme?
The Solareff YES Programme forms part of South Africa’s Youth Employment Service initiative, which was established to create workplace opportunities for unemployed young people.
Successful candidates will spend 12 months working within various departments at Solareff while receiving practical exposure to business operations and professional working environments.
Participants will have the opportunity to develop workplace skills, improve professional confidence, and gain experience that can help them secure future employment opportunities.
Unlike a learnership or apprenticeship, this programme focuses on workplace exposure rather than formal training that results in a qualification.
What Experience Will Participants Gain?
Successful applicants may be placed in different departments depending on operational requirements.
Applicants should ensure that all required information is completed correctly and that supporting documents are uploaded where requested.
Tips for a Strong Application
Before submitting your application:
Update your CV with your latest information
Highlight computer skills and Microsoft Office experience
Include any administrative or volunteer experience
Check that your contact details are correct
Proofread your application before submitting
Even if you have little or no work experience, demonstrating professionalism and attention to detail can strengthen your application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this a learnership?
No. Solareff has stated that this is not a learnership, apprenticeship, or training programme that leads to a qualification.
Will participants receive a certificate?
The programme focuses on workplace experience and does not include a formal qualification or certification.
Who can apply?
South African citizens aged 18 to 34 who meet the YES Programme requirements.
Can students apply?
No. Applicants must not be studying full-time during the programme period.
Can someone who has previously participated in YES apply?
No. Previous YES participants are not eligible.
Where is the programme based?
The opportunity is based in Roodepoort, Gauteng.
Conclusion
The Solareff YES Programme 2026 offers unemployed South African youth a valuable opportunity to gain 12 months of practical workplace experience in a professional environment.
With exposure to administration, operations, finance, warehousing, and business support functions, participants can build essential workplace skills that may improve their future employment prospects.
Young people who meet the eligibility requirements should prepare their documents and submit their applications before the 03 June 2026 closing date.
