NYDA in Partnership with Merseta Learnerships 2025
In a country where youth unemployment remains a major challenge, collaborative solutions are more important than ever. The NYDA (National Youth Development Agency), in partnership with the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA), is making strides to equip young South Africans with in-demand skills that lead to real job opportunities.
This powerful alliance focuses on training, employment, and entrepreneurship, offering youth the chance to build solid futures in industries critical to the country’s growth.
Why the NYDA-Merseta Partnership Matters
The partnership between NYDA and Merseta directly addresses the growing need for practical skills in South Africa. By combining resources and expertise, these organizations are driving large-scale youth empowerment efforts especially in high-demand sectors such as construction, engineering, and automotive services.
Through this partnership, young people are not just trained they’re transformed. The goal is clear: reduce youth unemployment and build a skilled workforce that contributes to South Africa’s economic development.
Learnership Opportunity: NYDA and Merseta Automotive Program
Apply Now for a 12-Month Learnership!
Young South Africans aged 18–35 are invited to apply for a 12-month Automotive Learnership Programme in partnership with Learnseta Academy, NYDA, and merSETA. This program focuses on Car Parts Sales and Marketing, and upon completion, learners receive an NQF Level 4 qualification.
Open to youth from all nine provinces
Application Deadline: 31 May 2025
Apply via email: apprenticeship@nyda.gov.za
Or online: https://erp.nyda.gov.za/career
NYDA’s Role in Youth Development
As a cornerstone of youth empowerment in South Africa, the NYDA focuses on:
- Skills development and training
- Access to education and employment
- Entrepreneurship support and funding
Since inception, NYDA has assisted over 200,000 young people through various programs. From launching start-ups to securing jobs in ICT, hospitality, and trades, NYDA continues to be a game-changer for South Africa’s youth.
Merseta’s Focus on Industry-Relevant Training
merSETA specializes in developing practical skills for sectors like manufacturing, construction, and engineering. Its training programs are designed to meet industry needs, ensuring that young trainees are job-ready.
Key initiatives include:
- Accredited skills programs
- On-site apprenticeships
- Industry-aligned certifications
merSETA ensures that youth not only get theoretical knowledge but also hands-on experience that employers demand.
Strategic Goals of the NYDA-Merseta Partnership
This partnership was formed to close the gap between youth potential and industry needs. The core objectives include:
- Increasing access to youth apprenticeships
- Promoting work-integrated learning
- Supporting entrepreneurship and innovation
- Creating a pipeline of skilled, job-ready individuals
With programs across South Africa, including rural areas, the partnership ensures inclusivity and widespread impact.
Core Initiatives Driving Change
Skills Training Programs
Tens of thousands of youth have received training in trades like:
- Electrical work
- Welding and plumbing
- Carpentry and manufacturing operations
These programs are delivered nationwide, bringing opportunity to both urban and rural communities.
Internships and Apprenticeships
Youth are paired with real companies to gain practical experience. These placements often lead to long-term employment. For instance, one Johannesburg trainee started as an apprentice and now manages a full construction crew proof that these programs work.
Small Business and Start-up Support
Beyond job placement, the NYDA-Merseta initiative also backs youth entrepreneurship through:
- Business development training
- Access to funding
- Mentorship programs
Many participants now run businesses supplying construction materials or offering repair services—creating jobs for others along the way.
Measurable Impact and National Benefits
Results So Far:
- 50,000+ youth trained and certified
- 20,000+ placed into employment
- 60% job retention rate after apprenticeships
These outcomes show real progress in the fight against unemployment and poverty.
Contribution to South Africa’s Development Plan
This partnership supports the goals of the National Development Plan (NDP) by:
- Building skilled workforces for national infrastructure projects
- Strengthening sectors like manufacturing and construction
- Driving youth economic participation
Challenges and Strategic Adjustments
While successes are many, challenges include:
- Limited literacy or numeracy among some applicants
- Economic fluctuations that affect hiring rates
In response, NYDA and Merseta now offer foundational skills courses and tighter industry collaboration to increase resilience and impact.
The Road Ahead: Future Expansion Plans
Scaling to Rural Areas
The next step is reaching more youth in underserved regions. Expansion into sectors like:
- Digital technology
- Green energy
- 3D printing and design
…will keep South African youth globally competitive.
Strengthening Industry Partnerships
More collaboration with private companies will lead to:
- Additional apprenticeships
- Enhanced real-world learning
- Better pathways to employment
Policy and Structural Recommendations
To sustain and grow the impact of NYDA in partnership with Merseta, South Africa needs to:
- Offer tax incentives to companies that hire youth
- Simplify processes for training and apprenticeship registration
- Encourage public-private partnerships for long-term youth development
Conclusion: NYDA and Merseta Are Shaping the Future
The NYDA-Merseta partnership is proving that with the right training and support, young South Africans can thrive. By focusing on skills development, entrepreneurship, and job placement, this collaboration empowers youth to lead the nation into a brighter future.
If you’re a young person seeking opportunity, or a business looking to invest in future talent now is the time to engage with NYDA.
Act today. Apply for open programs, learn new skills, and help build a stronger, more inclusive South Africa.
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