Hey future changemakers! Are you an unemployed South African graduate with a passion for psychology and helping people find their career path? Then get ready, because the Department of Employment and Labour has an incredible opportunity you won’t want to miss!
While not a traditional bursary for university fees, this is a fantastic Trainee Employment Counsellors Programme that acts like a career-kickstarting bursary. It offers financial support (a monthly stipend!) while you gain invaluable, practical work experience to become an Employment Counsellor. Imagine helping fellow South Africans navigate the job market and achieve their dreams – that could be you!
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this game-changing programme, you need to meet a few key requirements:
- You must be an unemployed South African graduate.
- You need a minimum of a three (3) year relevant tertiary qualification in Psychology or Industrial Psychology.
- An Honours degree in Psychology or Industrial Psychology would be a huge advantage.
- If you’re already registered with the Health Professional Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Registered Counsellor (Independent Practice) or a Psychometrist (Independent Practice), you’ll be given preference.
- You must NOT have participated in a similar programme before.
This programme is available across all South African provinces. Here’s a quick look at the number of posts and reference numbers:
- Gauteng: 16 Posts – Ref No: GP/2025/08/91206022
- KwaZulu-Natal: 16 Posts – Ref No: ZN/2025/08/91204620
- Eastern Cape: 16 Posts – Ref No: EC/2025/08/91206037
- Western Cape: 16 Posts – Ref No: WC/2025/08/90894267
- Mpumalanga: 8 Posts – Ref No: MP/2025/08/91206044
- North West: 15 Posts – Ref No: NW/2025/08/91206018
- Northern Cape: 12 Posts – Ref No: NC/2025/08/91201065
- Limpopo: 17 Posts – Ref No: LP/2025/08/91206054
- Free State: 14 Posts – Ref No: FS/2025/08/91205363
What Does It Cover?
This isn’t just an internship; it’s a fully supported programme! Successful candidates will receive:
- A generous monthly stipend of R7 860.40.
- 12 months of invaluable practical work exposure in employment counselling.
- The opportunity to develop essential skills in labour market research, recruitment, stakeholder engagement, and supporting work-seekers.
- A chance to contribute to the national effort of connecting people with meaningful employment.
How to Apply?
Ready to kickstart your career and make a real difference? Applying for the Department of Employment and Labour Trainee Employment Counsellors Programme is straightforward:
All applications must be submitted online via the ESSA system. Make sure you click the link below to get started:
Heads Up! Important Application Notes:
- Your application needs to include a Z83 application form (the new format, please!) and a comprehensive CV. Crucially, combine both into a single PDF document.
- Remember to quote the correct job title and the specific reference number for the province you’re applying for.
- Only candidates who are shortlisted will be asked to submit any additional supporting documents.
If you have any technical questions about the ESSA system, you can email Pes@Labour.gov.za or call their Call Centre on 086 010 1018.
If this sounds like the perfect next step for your career and you meet the requirements, don’t wait – apply now! This is your chance to gain vital experience, earn a stipend, and contribute to South Africa’s workforce. And don’t forget to explore more awesome opportunities right here on Bursaries Room!
