Graduates are feeling the pressure to find a job now, and the Youth Graduate Project (YGP) 2026/2027 offers a timely way to gain real‑world experience in the environmental sector.
What the opportunity is
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), through its Environmental Programmes Branch and the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), is offering 20 graduate contracts in the Lejweleputswa District Municipality. The placements focus on environmental management and waste management.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- South African youth who are currently unemployed.
- Must live in the Lejweleputswa District Municipality.
- Must hold a recognised qualification related to the environment, such as BSc Natural Sciences, Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Environmental Health, or any similar qualification.
The advert does not set a minimum age, academic percentage, work‑experience, driver’s licence, or computer‑literacy requirement. Only the points listed above are required.
What you gain (benefits and skills)
- Eight months of paid, full‑time work (5 days a week) at a daily rate of R271.04.
- Practical exposure to municipal environmental and waste‑management projects.
- Hands‑on experience that strengthens your CV and improves employability.
- Opportunities to network with government officials, consultants and community groups.
- Experience that can lead to future roles such as Environmental Officer, Waste Management Officer, or positions in consulting firms.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Prepare a detailed CV that highlights any university projects, fieldwork, GIS or lab skills, and volunteer work in the environment.
- Write a short motivational letter explaining why you want to work in environmental or waste management.
- Gather the required documents:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copies of your qualifications.
- Proof of residence showing an address within Lejweleputswa District.
- Place all documents in a sealed envelope and clearly label it: “Youth Graduate Project (YGP) 2026/2027 Application”.
- Hand‑deliver the envelope to:
Lejweleputswa District Municipality
Corner Jan Hofmeyr and Tempest Road
Welkom, 9459 - Make sure you deliver before the closing time: Friday, 14 August 2026 at 16:00.
Tips to improve your chances (SETA SA advice)
- Tailor your CV to the two placement areas: environmental management and waste management.
- List specific projects such as waste audits, environmental impact assessments, or community clean‑up campaigns.
- Include any software you have used (e.g., GIS, Excel, statistical packages).
- Proofread all documents; ensure photocopies are clear and all signatures are present.
- Double‑check that your proof of residence clearly displays a Lejweleputswa address.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last‑minute issues.
Conclusion – next steps
This contract is a solid stepping stone into the environmental field. Gather your documents, polish your CV, and deliver your application before 16:00 on 14 August 2026. While you wait, keep looking for other internships, graduate programmes, or bursaries so you have several pathways open when the eight‑month placement ends.
Quick Overview
- Programme: Youth Graduate Project (YGP) 2026/2027
- Employer: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)
- Implementation: Environmental Programmes Branch – Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
- Placement Municipality: Lejweleputswa District Municipality
- Posts available: 20 graduate contracts
- Duration: 8 months
- Work week: Five days
- Daily rate: R271.04
- Closing date: Friday, 14 August 2026 at 16:00
Placement Areas
- Environmental Management
- Waste Management
Required Documents
- Comprehensive CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Proof of residence (within Lejweleputswa)
Participation Targets (government transformation goals)
- 100% youth participation
- 60% women participation
- 2% persons living with disabilities
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who can apply? Unemployed South African graduates living in Lejweleptuswa District with an environmental qualification.
- How many positions? 20 graduate contracts.
- How long is the programme? 8 months.
- What is the daily rate? R271.04 per day.
- Can I email my application? No – it must be hand‑delivered.
- Which qualifications are accepted? BSc Natural Sciences, Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Environmental Health, or any similar qualification.
- Is work experience required? No – the advert does not require prior experience.
- What documents do I need? CV, certified ID, certified qualifications, proof of residence.
- When does the closing date close? Friday, 14 August 2026 at 16:00.
- When will I hear back? If you have not been contacted within three months after the closing date, consider the application unsuccessful.
Disclaimer
This article is provided by SETA SA to explain a publicly advertised employment opportunity. Applicants must rely on the official advertisement and any direct communication from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and Lejweleputswa District Municipality. SETA SA does not recruit for or influence the selection process.
Editorial Integrity
SETA SA presents information from official sources and adds only independent career advice. All facts such as eligibility, duration, remuneration, application method and closing date are taken directly from the official advert. Any additional guidance is clearly identified as editorial advice.
