Basic Education Employment Initiative Application 2025

Everything you need to know about Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI) Phase V Application 2025. The Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI), launched under South Africa’s Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI), continues to offer critical employment opportunities for thousands of unemployed youth across the country. With the implementation of Phase V, the initiative reaffirms the government’s commitment to empowering young people, reducing unemployment, and strengthening the country’s basic education sector.

This page provides an in-depth overview of BEEI Phase V, including its objectives, eligibility criteria, application process, and key dates that applicants need to know.

Understanding the Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI)

Introduced in 2020 as a response to the economic impact of COVID-19, the BEEI was designed to create short-term employment opportunities for youth while improving the capacity of South African public schools. The initiative falls under the Department of Basic Education and is part of a larger national program – the Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES).

Through the initiative, young people are employed as education assistants and general school assistants across primary and secondary public schools in South Africa’s nine provinces. Their roles range from administrative and clerical support to classroom-based learning assistance, ICT support, and infrastructure maintenance.

The program has since moved through several phases, with Phase V being the most recent rollout.

Objectives of BEEI Phase V

BEEI Phase V continues to serve dual purposes:

Youth Empowerment: Provide temporary work experience and skills development for young people, improving their employability and preparing them for long-term career opportunities.
Support to Schools: Offer essential support to educators and school management teams to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in public schools.

Who Can Apply? – Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI) Application Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for BEEI Phase V, applicants must meet a strict set of requirements. The initiative is specifically targeted at youth who are currently not in employment, education, or training (NEETs).

Basic Eligibility Requirements:

Age: Must be between 18 and 34 years old at the time of application.
Education: Minimum of a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate. However, preference is often given to candidates with post-matric qualifications, particularly in roles such as Reading Champions or e-Cadres.
Employment Status: Applicants must not be employed, enrolled in school, college, or university during the application or contract period.
Residency: Must be a South African citizen with a valid ID or smart card.
Proximity: Must live within 5km of the school they are applying to, or 30km for farm and rural schools.
Criminal Record: Applicants must not have a criminal record, especially related to sexual offenses or crimes against children.

Available Positions in BEEI Phase V

There are two main job categories under the program:

1. Education Assistants (EAs):

These roles involve direct support to teaching and learning activities. Sub-categories include:

Curriculum Assistants: Help with lesson preparation, learner support, and classroom management.
Reading Champions: Focused on literacy development and reading support.
e-Cadres: Assist with ICT integration, basic computer support, and administrative tech duties.

2. General School Assistants (GSAs):

These positions focus on school operations and maintenance. Sub-categories include:

Handymen: Involved in minor repairs and maintenance work.
Sport and Enrichment Assistants: Support school sports, arts, and cultural programs.
Health Promotion Assistants: Help promote hygiene, COVID-19 protocols, and general wellness activities.

How to Apply for BEEI Phase V

The application process is digital and accessible via the SAYouth.mobi platform, a zero-rated site (which means no data charges are incurred when accessing it via mobile networks).

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

Visit https://sayouth.mobi
Register or Log In:
- New users must register by providing their ID number, address, education details, and contact information.
- Existing users can log in with their credentials.
Search for Opportunities:
- Use the search bar or location filter to find positions listed under “Education Assistant” or “General Assistant.”
Apply:
- Follow the prompts to complete the application. You may be asked to upload or verify certain documents like your matric certificate or proof of address.
Wait for Feedback:
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted via SMS or phone. Keep your details updated and monitor your account regularly.

Important Dates and Duration for Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI) Application

While the official launch dates for BEEI Phase V vary slightly across provinces, applications typically open in April/May, with placements beginning in the third quarter of the year.

Contract Period: Appointments last up to 5 months, though this can vary by funding availability and performance.
Stipend: Participants earn a monthly stipend of R4,081 (as of the last confirmed phase), subject to tax and UIF deductions.

Documents Required for Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI) Application

To complete your application successfully, you may be asked to provide:

Certified copy of your South African ID or smart card.
Certified Matric certificate or highest qualification.
Proof of residence.
Updated CV.
Police clearance certificate (depending on the role and school).

Skills Development and Exit Opportunities

One of the most significant benefits of participating in the BEEI is the opportunity for skills development and training. Participants receive basic orientation and further online or in-person training in digital literacy, professional behavior, and workplace readiness.

Some may also earn SETAs-accredited certificates or gain access to exit pathways such as:

Internships

Learnerships

Further education opportunities

Full-time employment in schools or other sectors

Why Apply for BEEI Phase V?

Gain practical work experience
Receive a steady monthly income
Improve your CV and employability
Serve your local community
Access to skills development opportunities
Build a professional network

The Basic Education Employment Initiative Phase V is more than just a job placement program—it is a lifeline for South Africa’s unemployed youth and a critical support mechanism for the country’s public schools. By applying, young people can take a valuable step toward building their future, gaining work experience, and contributing meaningfully to education in their communities.