Position title
Department of Tourism Youth Employment Programme 2026
Job Overview

The Department of Tourism, in partnership with Harambee and SANPARKS, is inviting applications for the Integrated Service Excellence Programme 2026. This 12-month programme is designed to provide unemployed South African youth with practical workplace experience and skills development in the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors.Successful participants will gain valuable industry exposure while contributing to service excellence at participating tourism sites across South Africa.

Key Responsibilities
  • Participate actively in the Integrated Service Excellence Programme.
  • Deliver excellent customer service to visitors and guests.
  • Support tourism and hospitality operations at designated programme locations.
  • Maintain professional conduct and represent the Department positively.
  • Complete all required workplace training and development activities.
  • Follow organisational policies, safety procedures, and operational guidelines.
  • Work collaboratively with supervisors and team members.
  • Perform additional duties related to tourism and hospitality services as assigned.
Minimum Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be between 18 and 35 years of age.
  • Have a Grade 12 (Matric) Certificate.
  • Submit a certified copy of their South African ID.
  • Provide valid proof of residence (municipal bill, Tribal Authority letter, or other acceptable proof).
  • Reside within a 30-kilometre radius of one of the participating programme sites, surrounding communities, or recognised land claimant areas.
  • Declare in the application letter if they have previously participated in any Department of Tourism learnership or skills development programme.
  • Have a genuine passion for travel, tourism, and hospitality.
  • Have a clear criminal record.
Programme Benefits
  • Monthly stipend of R4,600.
  • Practical work experience in the tourism and hospitality industry.
  • Skills development and workplace training.
  • Exposure to nationally recognised tourism destinations.
  • Opportunity to improve employability through hands-on experience.
  • Professional development within South Africa's tourism sector.
Programme Duration
  • 12-month fixed-term contract
Participating Locations

Applications are available for opportunities at:

  • Free State
  • Mopani Rest Camp
  • Oliphants Rest Camp
  • Phalaborwa Gate
  • Shingwedzi Rest Camp
  • Punda Maria Rest Camp
  • Marakele National Park

Applicants should apply for the location nearest to their place of residence and ensure they meet the distance requirement.

Application Process
Employment Type
Intern
Duration of employment
12-months
Industry
Government Administration
Job Location
South Africa
Working Hours
09
Date posted
July 9, 2026
Valid through
July 9, 2029
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