Apply for the Department of Tourism Integrated Service Excellence Programme 2025 and gain practical experience in hospitality and tourism with a R4,000 monthly stipend. Open to South African youth aged 18–35
About the Programme
The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with Harambee and SANPARKS, has officially launched the Integrated Service Excellence Programme 2025 — a powerful initiative designed to empower unemployed South African youth.
This programme provides an incredible opportunity for young people to develop professional skills and gain real-world experience in the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors. Participants will receive a monthly stipend of R4,000, making it possible to learn, grow, and earn while building a sustainable career in one of South Africa’s most exciting industries.
Purpose of the Initiative
The Integrated Service Excellence Programme forms part of the Department’s mission to raise service standards across the tourism industry while tackling unemployment among South Africa’s youth.
Through partnerships with Harambee and SANPARKS, the programme combines practical workplace experience with structured training. Participants will gain exposure at tourism destinations, national parks, and hospitality establishments — learning directly from experienced professionals.
Applicants must live within a 50-kilometre radius of one of the participating sites to ensure opportunities reach local communities who need them most.
Who Can Apply
The programme welcomes passionate and motivated South African youth who are eager to work in tourism and hospitality. To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen aged 18 to 35 years
- Hold a Matric (Grade 12) certificate
- Have a genuine interest in travel, hospitality, and customer service
- Be willing to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays
Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply, as inclusivity is a key focus of the Department’s youth development efforts.
Documents Required
If shortlisted, applicants must submit the following certified documents:
- Copy of your Matric certificate
- Copy of your South African ID
- Proof of residence, such as a municipal bill, tribal authority letter, or bank statement showing your address
It’s important to ensure that all documents are clear, valid, and up to date — incomplete submissions will lead to disqualification.
Important Information
Youth who have previously taken part in the Department’s learnerships or skills programmes are still eligible to apply, but must declare this in their application letter. This ensures fairness and transparency, allowing the Department to reach as many new participants as possible.
Applicants should also be ready to participate in full-time practical training and on-the-job learning throughout the programme duration.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must register and apply through the SAYouth.mobi platform. Applications are open for specific locations in Mpumalanga, including:
- Pretoriuskop Rest Camp – Mpumalanga https://sayouth.mobi/View/DirectOpportunity…
- Berg en Dal Rest Camp – Mpumalanga https://sayouth.mobi/View/DirectOpportunity…
- Skukuza Rest Camp – Mpumalanga https://sayouth.mobi/View/DirectOpportunity…
After registering on the SAYouth platform, applicants can search for the Department of Tourism Integrated Service Excellence Programme 2025 and complete their online application.
Closing Date: 10 October 2025
Why You Should Apply
By joining this programme, participants gain more than just work experience — they gain confidence, professionalism, and employability. The training and exposure provided will open doors in tourism, hospitality, and customer service, paving the way for long-term career growth in a recovering and expanding industry.
Graduates of this programme will also benefit from networking opportunities within the Department of Tourism and SANPARKS, giving them a strong start toward a rewarding career path.
Conclusion
The Department of Tourism Integrated Service Excellence Programme 2025 is more than an internship — it’s a gateway to a future filled with opportunity, purpose, and growth.
If you are passionate about people, culture, and creating unforgettable experiences for visitors, this is your moment to shine. With hands-on experience, a monthly stipend, and mentorship from industry professionals, this programme is your ticket to a thriving career in South Africa’s vibrant tourism and hospitality sector.