SOUTHERN AFRICAN YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

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Sayda Internships & Learnerships Programme

Growing Together

Sayda Internship & Learnership Programme is a division of Southern African Youth Development Agency.

Sayda Internship & Learnership Programme is an initiative created to bridge the gap between education and the world of work. We are committed to equipping young graduates and students with practical workplace experience, industry knowledge, and employable skills that prepare them for long-term career success.

WHO WE ARE...

Sayda Internship & Learnership

  • A dedicated initiative committed to bridging the gap between academic learning and workplace readiness. Our role is to provide structured opportunities for students and graduates to gain hands-on experience, industry knowledge, and employable skills that prepare them for the realities of the modern job market.
  • Our objective is to empower young people with practical experience, skills, and opportunities that enhance their employability and prepare them for sustainable careers.
  • Our mission is to empower youth with practical workplace exposure and industry-relevant skills that complement their academic learning, thereby improving their chances of gaining employment or starting entrepreneurial ventures.

BACKGROUND

In Southern Africa, many students and graduates face the challenge of being academically qualified but lacking workplace experience. Employers often demand practical skills and industry exposure that young people have not yet had the opportunity to acquire. This mismatch between education and employment contributes to high levels of youth unemployment and underemployment.

To address this challenge, Southern African Youth Development Agency (SAYDA) established Sayda Internship & Learnership Programme. The initiative is designed to equip learners and graduates with practical, hands-on experience through structured workplace placements and accredited training opportunities.

By combining theory with practice, the programme ensures that youth are not only qualified on paper but also competent, confident, and adaptable in professional environments. It further strengthens partnerships between SAYDA, employers, and communities to create a pipeline of skilled, employable, and empowered young people across the region.

WHAT WE DO...

At Sayda Internship & Learnership Programme, we prepare young people for the world of work by providing structured, practical opportunities that complement their academic qualifications. Our work focuses on:

  • Internship Placements – Connecting students and graduates with employers for hands-on, short to medium-term work experience.
  • Learnership Opportunities – Offering accredited training that blends classroom instruction with workplace practice to build technical and professional skills.
  • Mentorship & Guidance – Pairing youth with industry professionals who provide career advice, coaching, and support.
  • Skills Development Workshops – Delivering training in leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and digital literacy.
  • Partnership Building – Collaborating with businesses, government, and NGOs to create a sustainable pipeline of opportunities.
  • Employment Pathways – Linking interns and learners to SAYDA’s Youth Employment Programme, helping them transition into permanent work or entrepreneurship.

Through these initiatives, we ensure that young people are work-ready, competitive, and capable of making meaningful contributions to the economy and society.

STUDENTS BENEFITS

Young people who join Sayda Internship & Learnership Programme gain more than just work exposure — they access opportunities that transform their career prospects and personal growth. Key benefits include:

  • Practical Work Experience – Real-world exposure that bridges the gap between academic theory and professional practice.
  • Accredited Training – Learnerships that provide recognized qualifications alongside workplace learning.
  • Mentorship Support – Guidance from industry professionals to help learners navigate career pathways.
  • Skills Development – Growth in critical areas such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
  • Networking Opportunities – Connections with employers, peers, and industry leaders.
  • Enhanced Employability – Increased chances of securing permanent employment or entrepreneurial success.
  • Linkages to SAYDA Programmes – Access to the Youth Employment Programme for job placements and long-term career support.

By participating, students and graduates leave not only with experience and skills, but with the confidence and connections they need to thrive in their chosen careers.

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