Eskom, South Africa’s leading electricity public utility, is offering an incredible opportunity for the youth through its Youth Employment Service (YES) X91 initiative. This program aims to tackle the prevalent youth unemployment crisis in the country, providing a significant stepping stone for young South Africans to gain valuable work experience in the energy sector. This article delves into the details of the YES X91 program, its objectives, requirements, and the benefits it offers to the youth in Gauteng.
Program Overview
Position Details
Position: Youth Employment Service X91
Vacancy Type: External/Internal
Task Grade: YY1
Department: Various
Business Unit: Gauteng Cluster
Location: South Africa (Gauteng)
Reference Number: 072024/SHAIT
Closing Date: 16th July 2024
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for the YES X91 program, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African Citizen
- Aged between 18 to 34
- Grade 12 with Maths Core, Physics, and Accounting
- No prior work experience
Skills and Competencies
Candidates should possess certain skills and competencies to excel in the program:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Basic understanding of mathematical and scientific principles
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work effectively in a team
- Eagerness to learn and adapt to new environments
Program Objectives
The YES initiative, led by the Presidency and supported by Eskom, is designed to address youth unemployment by creating meaningful work opportunities. Eskom’s involvement in this initiative aligns with its commitment to uplift the communities it serves and to contribute to the economic development of South Africa. The program aims to provide:
- Work Experience: A 12-month contract that offers practical work experience in various departments within Eskom.
- Skill Development: Exposure to real-world challenges and scenarios in the energy sector, helping participants develop essential job skills.
- Career Pathways: A stepping stone into potential long-term employment opportunities within Eskom or other organizations in the industry.
Key Responsibilities
Participants in the YES X91 program will be placed in one of several departments, where they will undertake various responsibilities and tasks. These departments include:
Human Resources
In the Human Resources department, participants will assist with:
- Recruitment and selection processes
- Employee relations and engagement activities
- Training and development programs
- HR administration and documentation
Finance
In the Finance department, participants will support:
- Financial reporting and analysis
- Budgeting and forecasting
- Accounts payable and receivable
- Financial compliance and audits
Maintenance & Operations
In the Maintenance & Operations department, participants will be involved in:
- Routine maintenance and inspection of equipment
- Operational support and troubleshooting
- Implementation of safety and quality standards
- Documentation of maintenance activities
Business Enablement
In the Business Enablement department, participants will assist with:
- Project management and coordination
- Process improvement initiatives
- Data analysis and reporting
- Support for business operations and strategy
Asset Creation
In the Asset Creation department, participants will contribute to:
- Planning and execution of asset creation projects
- Monitoring and evaluation of project progress
- Coordination with contractors and suppliers
- Compliance with project specifications and standards
Customer Services
In the Customer Services department, participants will help with:
- Handling customer inquiries and complaints
- Providing information about services and products
- Managing customer accounts and billing
- Ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction
Selection Criteria
To ensure the best candidates are chosen for the YES X91 program, Eskom has outlined specific selection criteria:
- Employment History: Candidates should not have been employed permanently with a single employer continuously for more than one year.
- Educational Status: Candidates should not be studying full-time in the year of employment.
- Program Participation: Candidates should not have previously participated in or registered for the YES initiative.
- Recruitment Process: Applicants will undergo a thorough recruitment process, including interviews and assessments. Successful candidates will be placed in various Eskom operations across the Gauteng Cluster.
Commitment to Equality and Diversity
Eskom is dedicated to promoting equality, employment equity, and diversity within its workforce. The selection process for the YES X91 program will prioritize candidates from under-represented designated groups, in line with Eskom’s employment equity goals and targets. Additionally, Eskom encourages candidates with disabilities to apply for the program.
Benefits of the YES X91 Program
Professional Development
The YES X91 program offers a unique opportunity for young South Africans to gain firsthand experience in the energy sector. Participants will work alongside seasoned professionals, gaining insights into the operations of one of the largest utility companies in the country. This experience will be invaluable in building their professional profiles and enhancing their employability.
Networking Opportunities
Working within Eskom provides participants with the chance to network with industry experts and peers. These connections can prove beneficial in their future career endeavors, opening doors to further opportunities within Eskom or other organizations in the energy sector.
Skills Acquisition
Participants will acquire a range of skills during their 12-month tenure. These include technical skills related to their specific department, as well as soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. The program is structured to ensure a comprehensive development experience that prepares participants for future employment.
Contribution to Community Development
By participating in the YES X91 program, young South Africans can contribute to the development of their communities. The skills and experience gained through the program can be applied to local initiatives, furthering the economic and social upliftment of the areas they come from.
Financial Support
While the primary focus of the YES X91 program is on skill development and work experience, participants will also receive financial support. This includes a monthly stipend to cover basic living expenses, ensuring that participants can focus on their professional growth without financial stress.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit their applications before the closing date of 16th July 2024. Applications should be submitted through Eskom’s official recruitment portal. The application process includes the following steps:
- Online Application: Complete the online application form, providing all necessary personal and educational details.
- Document Submission: Upload required documents, including a copy of your ID, Grade 12 certificate, and any other relevant qualifications.
- Assessment: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for assessments, which may include aptitude tests and interviews.
- Placement: Successful candidates will be notified of their placement within one of the specified departments.
Application Link: Eskom Youth Employment Service X91 (Distribution) Gauteng
Conclusion
The Eskom Youth Employment Service X91 initiative is a transformative program aimed at addressing youth unemployment in South Africa. By offering young individuals the chance to gain valuable work experience in the energy sector, Eskom is not only contributing to their personal and professional development but also to the broader goal of economic empowerment and community upliftment. This program represents a significant opportunity for young South Africans to embark on a promising career path and make meaningful contributions to the energy industry and their communities. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline and take the first step towards a bright and promising future.