Pretoria: The Departments of Basic Education and Employment and Labour have announced the opening of applications for Phase V of the Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI) via the SAYouth.mobi portal. The application period runs from 22 April to 9 May 2025.
According to South African Government News Agency, the government aims to tackle youth unemployment by creating 204,676 job opportunities nationwide. In a joint statement, the departments highlighted that successful applicants will be placed in schools as General Assistants and Education Assistants.
The BEEI programme is specifically designed for youth aged 18 to 34, turning 35 by the end of March 2026. The Department of Basic Education recently updated the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education in Parliament regarding the initiative’s progress.
The initiative is part of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, supported by the Industrial Development Corporation, which will manage stipend disbursements to participants. The primary goal is to equip youth with both hard and soft skills that will be beneficial when they transition out of the BEEI.
The initiative includes the provision of Curriculum Assistants to support key sectors like Mathematics, Science, and Technology. It also focuses on high-enrollment subjects in the Further Education and Training (FET) Phase, enhancing reading and literacy, and supporting teachers in classrooms and reading initiatives within schools and communities.
To align with the priorities of the 7th Administration, more opportunities will be allocated to reading champions to bolster reading and literacy in the foundation and intermediate phases. Additionally, e-Cadres will assist schools in integrating ICT into classrooms, optimizing school administration, and information management systems.
The initiative also encompasses comprehensive learner support, including psychosocial support and activities in sport, arts, and culture through Care and Support Assistants (CSA) and Sport and Enrichment Assistants (SEA). These measures aim to ensure that schools maintain a safe and conducive learning environment, with General School Assistants (GSAs) maintaining infrastructure and cleanliness. Laboratory and Workshop Assistants will also be provided to keep these facilities functional.
Participants will receive cash stipends and are required to attend training programs in various areas. The BEEI will formally commence in schools on 1 June 2025 and conclude on 30 November 2025.