Discover the New Concept Mining (NCM) YES4Youth Learnership Programme 2026, offering unemployed South African youth a 12-month paid work experience opportunity designed to develop practical skills, boost employability, and open doors to long-term career growth in the mining support sector.

For many young South Africans searching for their first meaningful opportunity, the pathway into employment often feels unclear. With limited experience, financial pressures and barriers to entry in professional industries, securing that first job can be challenging. This is why youth-centred skills initiatives like the New Concept Mining (NCM) YES4Youth Learnership Programme 2026 hold such powerful value.

More than just a work placement, this programme gives young people the chance to develop confidence, gain workplace exposure, learn practical skills and position themselves for long-term employment in a sector that continues to grow. As one of the world’s leaders in ground support solutions for mining, New Concept Mining invests in the YES programme because it understands that shaping the future of South Africa requires empowering its youth.

Why the YES4Youth Programme Matters Now More Than Ever

South Africa faces one of the highest youth unemployment rates globally. Large numbers of young people finish school or post-school courses but struggle to secure employment due to a lack of workplace experience.

The Youth Employment Service (YES) programme exists to bridge this gap by providing:

• Structured 12-month workplace experience
• A monthly stipend
• Industry-specific training
• Work readiness skills
• A nationally recognised certificate of experience

For many young people, participating in YES is a defining moment—it gives them real exposure to professional environments and the opportunity to build practical skills needed to secure a job.

New Concept Mining’s involvement ensures that learners gain exposure within a fast-evolving mining support industry known for innovation, technological advancement and long-term career potential.

About New Concept Mining: Empowering the Future of Mining

New Concept Mining (NCM) is a global leader in ground support technology, manufacturing products and systems used in underground mines across several continents. Their work plays a critical role in improving safety, enhancing mining efficiency and supporting sustainable operations.

The company is built on principles of:

• Innovation
• Technical expertise
• Quality assurance
• Workforce development

Through the YES4Youth Learnership Programme, NCM extends its commitment to developing the next generation of professionals—providing young people with an entry point into a sector where skills development is essential.

Useful Links:

• Various Learnerships
• Accredited SETA Programmes
• Youth Opportunities

What the NCM YES4Youth Learnership Programme Offers

The 2026 programme provides a structured, supportive learning environment designed to help youth gain real experience and build employability skills.

1. A Full 12 Months of Workplace Exposure

Learners work in real positions across various departments, gaining a solid understanding of industry processes and expectations.

2. Monthly Stipend

The stipend helps cover daily expenses such as food, transport and basic needs, allowing participants to focus fully on their development.

3. Industry-Aligned Training

Depending on placement, learners gain exposure to:

• Manufacturing
• Operational support
• Quality control
• Health and safety
• Logistics
• Administration
• Engineering support

These practical skills become valuable on any CV.

4. Mentorship and Supervision

Learners work under experienced supervisors who guide their progress, build their confidence and help them adjust to the workplace environment.

5. Employability and Soft Skills Development

Participants learn essential workplace behaviours and competencies such as:

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Teamwork
• Time management
• Basic digital literacy
• Professional conduct

6. YES Certificate of Completion

Upon completing the programme, participants receive a recognised certificate that significantly strengthens their job prospects.

7. Potential for Long-Term Employment

While permanent employment is not guaranteed, many YES learners—nationwide and within NCM—secure long-term roles based on their performance and dedication.

Who Qualifies for the Programme?

The YES4Youth initiative is designed to support unemployed young people who are eager to learn and ready to take the first step in their career journey.

You may qualify if you:

• Are between 18 and 35 years old
• Are unemployed at the time of application
• Have never participated in a YES programme before
• Are a South African citizen
• Have a Matric certificate
• Are willing to commit to the full 12-month programme
• Have a good attitude and willingness to learn

Some roles may require:

• Basic computer literacy
• A driver’s licence (advantageous)
• Strong communication skills
• Interest in operational, technical or administrative roles

The programme is designed to be accessible—NCM values motivation, commitment and enthusiasm over experience.

Possible Departments and Job Roles for 2026

While each intake varies based on operational needs, NCM typically places learners in departments such as:

1. Manufacturing & Production

Supporting assembly, packaging, product testing, stock preparation and workshop operations.

2. Quality Control

Assisting with checks, safety compliance documentation and quality assessments.

3. Supply Chain & Logistics

Exposure to inventory systems, warehousing, dispatch and procurement processes.

4. Engineering Support

Insight into technical processes, production optimisation, maintenance planning and engineering documentation.

5. Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)

Supporting safety inspections, incident logging, compliance requirements and audit preparation.

6. Finance & Administration

Assisting with filing, data capturing, invoicing support, document control and general office tasks.

7. Human Resources & Talent Support

Supporting recruitment drives, employee files, induction sessions, and HR systems.

These departments give learners wide exposure and a chance to understand different career paths within the industry.

Why This Programme Stands Out from Other Youth Opportunities

The NCM YES4Youth Learnership is highly regarded for several reasons:

1. Real, meaningful work exposure

Learners are integrated into real teams doing real tasks—not just observing.

2. High-quality training environment

NCM operates at global standards, giving learners access to modern processes and systems.

3. Strong support structure

There is continuous monitoring, mentorship and feedback to help learners grow.

4. Career-boosting experience

The skills gained are valuable for jobs in manufacturing, mining support, logistics, administration, engineering and more.

5. Valuable reference and certification

A year of structured work experience changes a CV dramatically—learners leave job-ready.

6. Long-term impact

Many former YES participants across the country have transitioned into permanent roles or secured employment soon after completing the programme.

How the Programme Contributes to South Africa’s Economic Future

YES is more than just a learnership—it is an economic intervention aimed at reducing youth unemployment.

Through programmes like this one:

• Young people gain confidence and exposure
• Companies develop future talent pipelines
• Communities benefit from skilled, employable youth
• The nation builds a stronger workforce

New Concept Mining’s involvement highlights its commitment to contributing to a more inclusive and skilled economy.

How to Apply for the NCM YES4Youth Learnership 2026

While each year’s application method may differ, applicants typically follow this process:

STEP 1: Gather Required Documents

You should prepare:

• Updated CV
• Certified ID copy
• Certified Matric certificate or results
• Proof of residence
• A brief motivational note
• Any supplementary certificates

Ensure all documents are readable and properly labelled (PDF recommended).

STEP 2: Submit Your Application

Applications may be submitted via:

• NCM’s online recruitment portal
• A designated YES email address
• Partner youth platforms
• Company HR channels

The official 2026 link or email is released once NCM publishes the advertisement.

STEP 3: Screening and Shortlisting

The company reviews:

• CV quality
• Document completeness
• Minimum requirement alignment
• Overall suitability

STEP 4: Assessments and Interviews

Shortlisted candidates may go through:

• Telephonic/online interviews
• Workplace readiness assessments
• Reference checks

NCM aims to keep the process fair, friendly and encouraging.

STEP 5: Final Selection and Onboarding

Successful learners receive:

• An official YES placement offer
• Onboarding instructions
• A clear start date
• Guidance for their first day

They then begin their 12-month journey at NCM.

Tips for a Strong and Successful YES Application

Many applicants compete for limited placements, so strengthening your application is important.

1. Keep Your CV Simple, Clear and Professional

No need for fancy designs—focus on clarity, spelling and organisation.

2. Emphasise Your Attitude and Motivation

YES programmes value willingness to learn even more than experience.

3. Check Your Documents Carefully

Incorrect or missing documents are the most common reason applicants are disqualified.

4. Submit Early

Early submissions often stand out and are processed sooner.

5. Research the Company Before Applying

Understanding what NCM does shows professionalism and interest.

6. Be Professional During Interviews

Good communication, punctuality and enthusiasm make a strong impression.

Real Impact: Stories of Growth and Transformation

YES alumni across South Africa often describe their year of work experience as a turning point in their lives. Many say they gained:

• Confidence they never knew they had
• Skills they use in future jobs
• A sense of purpose and direction
• Workplace discipline and communication skills
• Professional networks
• New career interests they never considered

At NCM, the supportive environment helps learners not only grow professionally, but also personally. Young people begin the programme unsure of themselves but often finish transformed, motivated and ready for the next chapter.

A Growing Industry Needs Growing Talent

The mining support sector is evolving quickly:

• Manufacturing processes are becoming more automated
• Safety standards are improving
• Digital monitoring systems are increasingly used
• Supply chains are becoming more complex

Young people who gain experience now will be better positioned for future roles in:

• Operations
• Logistics
• Technical support
• Engineering
• Administration
• Safety compliance
• Production management

The learnership serves as a stepping stone into these pathways.

Conclusion: A Transformative Opportunity for Youth Ready to Build Their Future

The New Concept Mining (NCM) YES4Youth Learnership Programme 2026 is more than a training opportunity—it is a catalyst for change in the lives of young South Africans who are eager to grow, learn and launch their careers.

The programme offers:

• A full year of meaningful workplace experience
• A monthly stipend
• Mentorship and guidance
• Exposure to real industry roles
• Skills that build long-term employability
• A nationally recognised YES certificate
• Access to future job opportunities

For unemployed youth searching for a fresh start, this programme can be the bridge from uncertainty to stability, from unemployment to opportunity, from potential to purpose.

If you are motivated, committed and ready to invest in your future, this learnership could be the turning point that shapes your career journey.