The South African government has officially announced Phase 5 of the PYEI Education Assistants (EAs) and General Assistants (GAs) Programme. The EAs and GAs Phase 5 Applications will be opened from 22 April 2025 utill 09 may 2025. This is a golden opportunity for young people who are unemployed and not in education or training. Whether you’re looking for your first job, need experience, or want to make a difference in your community, this program is for you.
In this full guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the PYEI EAs and GAs Application Phase 5 including who qualifies, how to apply, job roles, and what to expect. We’ll also answer common questions to help you succeed in your application.
What is the PYEI EAs and GAs Programme?
The Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI) is a programme that helps fight youth unemployment in South Africa. One part of this initiative is the Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI). This programme hires Education Assistants (EAs) and General Assistants (GAs) to work in public schools across the country.
Since it started, over 1 million job opportunities have been created. Now with Phase 5, more than 200,000 new jobs will be available from June to November 2025.
EAs And GAs Phase 5 Details for 2025
- Applications Open: 22 April 2025
- Applications Close: 09 May 2025
- Contract Period: 01 June to 30 November 2025
- Stipend: R4,000 per month
- Extra: R30 monthly for data
- Apply on: https://sayouth.mobi
This programme is designed to give young people real working experience and valuable skills that will help them find future jobs.
Who Can Apply for EAs And GAs PYEI Phase 5?
To be accepted as an Education Assistant (EA) or General Assistant (GA), you must meet the following requirements:
✅ You Must:
- Be 18 to 34 years old (turning 35 on or before 31 March 2026).
- Be unemployed and not in education or training (NEET).
- Live near the school you’re applying to (within 5 km in towns or 30 km in rural areas).
- Have a valid South African ID book or smart card.
- Not have a criminal record (you’ll need a Police Clearance Certificate later).
- Not be receiving another government income or stipend.
- Not have participated in previous PYEI school programmes.
- Be willing to work at a public school for 6 months.
✅ Special Notes:
- Youth with disabilities are encouraged to apply. A medical certificate will be required.
- If you are studying teaching part-time or online, you are strongly encouraged to apply. This will give you experience in education
Types of Jobs in BEEI Phase 5: EAs and GAs
There are two main categories of work available in this phase:
1. 📘 Education Assistants (EAs)
EAs support teachers and help improve learning in the classroom. The roles include:
🔹 Reading Champions
- Help Foundation and Intermediate Phase learners improve reading.
- Great for those studying education or passionate about literacy.
🔹 Curriculum Assistants
- Assist with classroom preparation, educational materials, and admin support.
- Do not teach but help make the learning process smoother.
🔹 e-Cadres
- Support the use of technology in schools.
- Help with computers, digital resources, and general IT assistance.
2. 🧹 General School Assistants (GAs)
GAs work in more practical roles around the school, helping with maintenance, sports, and learner support.
🔹 Care and Support Assistants
- Offer emotional and psychological support to learners.
- Must be kind, caring, and patient.
🔹 Laboratory and Workshop Assistants
- Help manage school science labs or workshops.
- Help learners during practical tasks.
🔹 Sports and Arts Assistants
Assist with physical education, arts, and after-school activities.
🔹 Handymen/Women
- Help with general maintenance: painting, fixing, cleaning, and basic repairs.
Which Province Is EAs And GAs Available
The PYEI Phase 5 programme will be active in public schools across all 9 provinces. This allows you to apply in your own community.
| Province | Number of Jobs |
|---|---|
| Eastern Cape | ✅28,709 |
| Free State | ✅11,408 |
| Gauteng | ✅36,186 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | ✅45,658 |
| Limpopo | ✅27,366 |
| Mpumalanga | ✅17,495 |
| Northern Cape | ✅4,838 |
| North West | ✅13,687 |
| Western Cape | ✅19,329 |
| Total | 204,676 |
How to Apply for PYEI Phase 5
Follow these easy steps to apply:
✅ Step 1: Register on SAYouth.mobi
- Go to https://sayouth.mobi on your phone or computer.
- Sign up with your ID number and cellphone number.
- Registration and browsing don’t use mobile data on most networks.
✅ Step 2: Update Your Profile
- Add your correct location so you get job offers near you.
- Upload your CV and any certificates.
✅ Step 3: Start Applying
- Search for “School Assistant” or “Education Assistant” positions.
- Apply for jobs at schools closest to your home.
- You do not need to visit the school to apply. All applications are online only.
When Will EAs & GAs Phase 5 Applications Open?
The PYEI Phase 5 Education Assistants and General Assistants applications have officially opened on Monday, 22 April 2025, and close on Thursday, 09 May 2025.
This is a short window of just over two weeks, so it’s important to get ready early, update your SAYouth profile, and prepare your documents in advance.
Here’s a quick reminder:
- Opening Date: 22 April 2025
- Closing Date: 09 May 2025
- Work Starts: 01 June 2025
You can only apply online through the official website: https://sayouth.mobi. No paper applications or walk-ins at schools are allowed
FAQs About EAs & GAs
No. This opportunity is for first-time applicants only.
No. It’s a 6-month fixed-term contract from June to November 2025.
Yes, but make sure it’s a school near where you live
You can still apply. Some roles don’t require matric, especially GA positions
Yes. Free training will be provided to help you perform your duties better
2 Comments
I think 🤔 you are not giving us enough information to apply
I Have added a video tutorial here: https://youtu.be/xihzNdVj0Po