Today marks a major milestone for youth employment in South Africa as approximately 200,000 young South Africans begin their roles as Teaching Assistants through the fifth phase of the Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI). This initiative, a key part of the Presidential Employment Stimulus, has officially resumed after a one-year pause — bringing opportunities to schools across the country.
A Nationwide Youth Employment Drive in Education
In his weekly newsletter, President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed the return of the BEEI, noting its reach into townships, rural areas, inner cities, farms, and special needs schools. He described the programme as a source of “hope, energy, and income” in communities where employment opportunities are often out of reach.
Launched in 2020, the BEEI aims to provide work opportunities for unemployed youth while supporting learning outcomes in schools. It is coordinated by the Department of Basic Education, together with provincial education departments, and is now funded through the UIF Labour Activation Programme and the national government.
Real Work Experience for Youth Across Over 20,000 Schools
The programme places young people in over 20,000 schools nationwide, offering hands-on experience that helps improve both school functionality and educational outcomes. Participants are equipped with in-demand workplace skills such as:
- Time and task management
- Teamwork and communication
- IT and administrative competence
- Problem-solving
These are the exact capabilities that employers say they are looking for.
“Participants undertake roles aligned to school priorities, adding real value and improving the learning environment,” said President Ramaphosa.
Roles Available Under the BEEI Teaching Assistant Programme
The BEEI accommodates youth with varying skills levels, and many are placed in roles that support teaching and school operations:
- Curriculum Assistants – Support in subjects like maths, science, and technology
- Reading Champions – Encourage literacy and a culture of reading
- Lab and Workshop Assistants – Assist with technical and vocational subjects
- IT and Administration Support – Help maintain systems and records
- Care and Support Assistants – Work with School Support Teams to assist vulnerable learners
- Maintenance and Facilities Support – Help with school upkeep, gardens, and infrastructure
- Arts, Sports, and Culture Facilitators – Enrich learners’ lives through extracurricular activities
Real Stories, Real Impact
One of the programme's success stories is Sibongile Joni, a former Curriculum Assistant at Emsengeni Primary School in the Eastern Cape. She now works at a youth-focused NGO called Masinyusane.
Sibongile offered advice to the new Teaching Assistants:
“Be reliable and professional. Take initiative and treat every task with care. Build strong relationships — people open doors for those they trust.”
She reminded participants that growth takes time, encouraging them to “start strong and stay consistent.”
Building a Future Beyond the Programme
President Ramaphosa noted that every Teaching Assistant enters the programme with personal ambitions — whether it's to study further, find a permanent job, or start a business.
“They won't be starting from scratch. They will carry invaluable skills and experience that set them apart in a tough labour market.”
A Call to Employers and Communities
The President urged society and employers to support youth as they transition from temporary work into long-term careers:
“These young people will have worked in high-pressure school environments and proven their ability to meet responsibilities. To employers we say: give them their next opportunity, mentor their talent, and support their growth.”
