Youth unemployment remains one of South Africa’s biggest challenges today. To help address this, the YES Programme offers unemployed young people a vital chance to gain workplace experience and improve their future job prospects. One standout initiative is the Daimler Truck Southern Africa Programme 2025/2026, which opens doors for youth to learn, grow, and build a career in a supportive, professional environment.
About Daimler Truck Southern Africa and Its Role in the YES Programme
Daimler Truck Southern Africa Ltd is part of Daimler Truck AG, a global leader in commercial vehicles. With over 60 years of history in South Africa, the company is known for its premium brands like Mercedes-Benz Trucks, FUSO Trucks, and Mercedes-Benz Buses. Beyond selling trucks, Daimler Truck Southern Africa provides valuable services such as TruckTraining, Fleetboard telematics, and TruckStore.
As part of its commitment to community and workforce development, Daimler Truck Southern Africa has partnered with the South African government on the YES Programme. This national initiative aims to help unemployed youth by offering them 12 months of meaningful workplace experience in various business areas.
What Is the YES Programme?
The Youth Employment Services (YES) Programme was created to tackle youth unemployment by providing structured workplace experience to young South Africans. Through this programme, participants gain valuable skills that increase their employability and readiness for the job market.
Daimler Truck Southern Africa’s (YES) Programme places young candidates in either Centurion or East London, allowing them to get hands-on experience in a real work environment for a full year. This is a unique opportunity for youth who may have limited or no prior work experience.
Who Can Apply for the Daimler Truck YES Programme?
The (YES) Programme is designed for unemployed South African youth aged between 18 and 29 years. Applicants must meet a few basic criteria to qualify:
- Must have at least a Grade 12 certificate (tertiary qualifications are a plus).
- Be English speaking and computer literate.
- Have a clear criminal record.
- Must not have participated in any previous YES Programme placements.
The programme welcomes youth from various educational backgrounds, and no previous work experience is required—making it accessible to many eager young South Africans.
Preferred Qualifications for the YES Programme
While the YES Programme accepts many applications, preference is given to candidates with qualifications in these fields:
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Industrial, Mechatronics)
- Human Resource Management
- Procurement, Supply Chain, and Logistics
- Finance (Accounting, Financial Management, Economics, Tax)
- Information Technology
- Marketing (Communication, Public Relations, Digital Media)
- Legal (newly admitted attorneys)
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion in the YES Programme
Daimler Truck Southern Africa is committed to diversity and inclusiveness within the YES Programme. All qualified candidates will be considered fairly regardless of race, gender, disability, or any other status. The company adheres to South Africa’s Employment Equity Act and actively supports opportunities for people with disabilities.
Foreign nationals are welcome to apply, provided they have the necessary work permits according to South Africa’s Immigration Act.
How to Apply for the YES Programme
Applications for the Daimler Truck Southern Africa YES Programme close on 30 May 2024. Interested candidates should submit their applications promptly.
The YES Programme represents a genuine chance for young South Africans to gain skills, build their CVs, and step into the world of work with confidence.
Why the YES Programme Matters for South African Youth
The YES Programme is more than a training initiative. It’s a stepping stone that empowers youth to move from unemployment to meaningful employment. By participating in the YES Programme at Daimler Truck Southern Africa, young people can:
- Gain valuable practical skills in their field of interest.
- Build professional networks and industry connections.
- Increase their chances of securing permanent jobs.
- Develop confidence and workplace readiness.
With South Africa’s youth unemployment rate remaining high, the Programme is a crucial intervention that can change lives and futures.
Check also: Tshwane South TVET College Internship Programme 2025/2026
The Daimler Truck Southern Africa YES Programme 2025/2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for unemployed youth aged 18-29 to gain 12 months of workplace experience. With placements available in Centurion and East London, this programme aims to equip young South Africans with the skills and exposure needed for a brighter career path.
