Top NYDA Opportunities You Can’t Miss in 2025

The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) continues to play a vital role in South Africa’s socio-economic development by empowering youth, reducing unemployment, and promoting sustainable growth.

The NYDA has launched several transformative initiatives, offering young South Africans opportunities in entrepreneurship, skills development, and job creation. These programs are designed to equip youth with the skills and resources needed to build a more prosperous future.

Key NYDA Opportunities for 2025

1. Expansion of the National Youth Service (NYS) Program

The National Youth Service (NYS) program is set to expand significantly in 2025. Originally designed to engage 20,000 young South Africans, the NYDA has doubled its target to 40,000 participants by the end of the year.

This program provides paid community service opportunities across South Africa, allowing youth to gain practical work experience while contributing to their communities. It also provides a steady income and improves employability in various sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

How to Apply:

• Visit the NYDA ERP Portal to register and check available NYS positions.
• Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, such as age (18-35 years) and educational qualifications (matric or equivalent).

2. Support for Youth-Owned Enterprises

In 2025, the NYDA will provide substantial support to 2,500 youth-owned businesses, particularly in rural areas, townships, and disability-focused enterprises. This support will include financial grants, mentorship, and training, helping young entrepreneurs thrive in a challenging business environment.

The NYDA’s focus on entrepreneurship is aimed at fostering self-sufficiency among youth, enabling them to become active contributors to the national economy.

How to Apply:

• Business owners can access the application form on the NYDA website or through the SA Youth Network.
• Entrepreneurs must submit a business plan and financial documents for consideration.

3. Youth Entrepreneurship and Business Support

The NYDA Grant Programme is an essential resource for young entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses. In 2025, the program will offer both financial and non-financial assistance, providing seed funding, mentorship, and expert guidance to ensure long-term success.

Whether you are launching a startup or seeking to expand an existing business, the NYDA will equip you with the tools needed for growth.

Key Resources Available:

• Mentorship: Pairing youth entrepreneurs with industry experts to guide them through the challenges of business development.
• Workshops: Attend monthly workshops on topics like business management, marketing, and finance.

4. Capacity Building for Youth-Led NPOs

The NYDA recognizes the importance of youth-led nonprofit organizations (NPOs) in driving social change. In 2025, a capacity-building program will help youth-led NPOs improve their governance, compliance, and project design.

This 10-month program will empower young leaders with the necessary skills to manage and grow their organizations responsibly, ensuring their sustainability and greater social impact.

How to Apply:

• Youth-led NPOs can register for the program via the NYDA Portal.
• The application requires a brief overview of the organization’s current projects, goals, and operational structure.

5. Training, Mentorship, and Job Readiness

To tackle the issue of high youth unemployment in South Africa, the NYDA is focusing on programs that provide training, mentorship, and job readiness. In 2025, the agency will offer specialized training in fields like marketing, administration, digital media, and engineering.

By equipping young South Africans with practical skills, these initiatives aim to improve their job prospects and prepare them for the workforce.

How to Access:

• Sign up for available training programs on the SA Youth Network.
• Enrol in short courses and digital skill development workshops designed to bridge the skills gap.

6. Free Tech and Skills Training Courses

In partnership with ALX and Microsoft, the NYDA will offer free tech and skills training courses. These courses will cover essential digital skills such as coding, cybersecurity, and data analysis, along with specialized training in high-demand fields like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. By gaining these skills, youth will be better equipped to enter the rapidly evolving tech industry.

How to Apply:

• Interested candidates can apply directly on the NYDA website or through the training partners’ portals.
• The courses are available in both online and in-person formats, with internships and learnerships offered to ensure practical experience.

7. Scholarships and Bursaries

For youth seeking to pursue higher education, the NYDA offers various bursaries and scholarships. In 2025, notable opportunities include the Investec CSI Bursary, Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship, and Toyota SA Motors Bursary.

These programs are designed to help bridge the financial gap, allowing students to pursue education both locally and abroad.

How to Apply:

• Applications for these bursaries are available on the NYDA Bursary Portal.
• Be sure to check the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each program.

8. Specialized Programmes for Youth Development

In addition to the core programs, the NYDA will run specialized initiatives such as the Youth Co-operative Development Programme, Market Linkages Programme, and Life Skills Programme.

These initiatives provide targeted support, connecting youth to markets, fostering cooperative businesses, and helping them develop the life skills needed to succeed in the workplace.

How to Apply:

• Apply via the NYDA Portal for detailed program descriptions and deadlines.

Strategic Focus for 2025-30: Empowering Youth for Economic Growth

The NYDA’s strategic focus for 2025 and beyond aims to address youth unemployment, foster inclusive economic growth, and provide essential skills development. These goals are aligned with the NYDA’s 2025-30 strategic plan, which outlines clear pathways for youth empowerment.

By focusing on entrepreneurship, community service, and job readiness, the agency aims to help youth build fulfilling careers and contribute to South Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

How to Access These Opportunities

Young South Africans interested in applying for any of these opportunities can visit the NYDA ERP Portal for vacancies and grants or the SA Youth Network for localized opportunities. These platforms serve as an accessible gateway to all available programs, making it easier for youth to actively engage with life-changing initiatives.

Check also: Internships, Learnerships & Bursaries in Gauteng: Where to Start

The NYDA’s initiatives for 2025 mark a significant step forward in empowering South Africa’s youth. By expanding the National Youth Service, supporting youth-owned businesses, and providing upskilling opportunities, the NYDA is playing a key role in tackling youth unemployment and driving inclusive economic growth.

With specialized programs aimed at improving education, job readiness, and entrepreneurship, these initiatives are setting the stage for a brighter, more prosperous future for South Africa’s youth.