In a significant move to address youth unemployment and strengthen South Africa’s creative and cultural economy, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has officially opened a call for applications for youth employment opportunities through its e-recruitment talent database.
Aligned with the National Development Plan (NDP) Vision 2030, this initiative aims to identify and support young graduates who are passionate about building careers within the sport, arts, culture and heritage sectors — industries that play a vital role in shaping national identity, preserving history, and driving economic growth.
Who Is This Opportunity For?
DSAC is inviting South African youth aged 18 to 35 who hold relevant post-school qualifications to register their profiles for future contract placement opportunities within the department.
Graduates from the following fields are encouraged to apply:
- Sport and Recreation Management
- Arts, Culture and Heritage Preservation and Promotion
- Library and Information Sciences
- Archives and Records Management
- Cultural History, Anthropology or Archaeology
- Creative Industries (including digital arts, design, performing arts and related fields)
- Communication, Public Relations and Marketing
- Events Management and Logistics
- Administration and related support services
- Any other career field aligned with DSAC’s mandate
Applicants must be in possession of a National Diploma, Degree or Postgraduate qualification and should not be participating in any government-funded learnership, internship or similar programme at the time of application. While 1–2 years of workplace experience is considered an added advantage, it is not compulsory.
Most importantly, DSAC is looking for young people who are passionate about contributing to South Africa’s development within the sport, arts, culture and heritage sectors.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must register their profiles via the DSAC E-Recruitment System, which will be used to identify suitable candidates for future opportunities.
🔗 Application link:
https://erecruit.dsac.gov.za/public/login.php
📅 Closing date:
13 February 2026 at 12h00
Once shortlisted, candidates will be required to undergo a formal recruitment and selection process, including the completion of the Z83 form and Personnel Suitability Checks. Applicants should also note that travel and accommodation costs remain the responsibility of the candidate.
Important to Note
DSAC has emphasised that participation in the programme does not guarantee permanent employment. However, for many young graduates, this initiative represents a critical entry point into public service, offering valuable experience, exposure and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the country’s cultural and creative landscape.
A Step Toward Building Sustainable Creative Careers
As unemployment continues to disproportionately affect young people — particularly those in the creative and cultural sectors — initiatives like this provide a much-needed bridge between education and professional practice. For aspiring administrators, archivists, artists, event managers, marketers and cultural practitioners, this call could be the door-opener to long-term impact and career growth.
Young graduates are encouraged to apply early, prepare thoroughly, and take ownership of their role in shaping South Africa’s cultural future.
Lindiwe Maseko
Known as **Lee Mvuleni “Gog’Nkele”
Spiritual Narrative Poet | Writer | Visual Artist
Lee Mvuleni “Gog’Nkele is a visionary artist from Tsakane East Rand, blending poetry, face paint, beading, and fabric art to convey divine stories of the soul. Their work touches souls and reaches out to all who are lost, fueled by ancestral guidance and a deep connection to spirituality. Lee’s poetry is a manifestation of spiritual guidance, weaving tales of love, hope, and transformation.
Awards:
– Best Poet, KwaTsaDuza Heroes
Artistic Mediums:
– Spiritual narrative poetry
– Face paint and beading
– Fabric art
– Visual storytelling
Pronouns: They/Them 😊
We are definitely driving passion together.