Learn about the Department of Basic Education’s decision to close new appointments of assistants, the positive impact of the PYEI, and training opportunities for the youth.
DBE Announces Closure of New Appointments for School Assistants
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has decided to close new appointments of assistants on 15 June 2022 as Phase III of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI) approaches its end date of 31 August 2022. With many positive stories told by youth, teachers, and principals, the initiative continues to impact schools significantly.
Stability in Schools and Preparation for Matric Exams
To ensure stability in schools during the winter break (24 June to 19 July 2022), no appointments or replacements can be made after 15 June 2022. When schools reopen for Term Three, less than seven weeks of Phase III will remain, with preparations for the 2022 preliminary matric examinations underway in high schools. The DBE believes there won’t be enough time to provide new appointees with the necessary orientation and training for meaningful work experience.
Guidelines on Pro-Rata Payments
The DBE has issued guidelines on calculating pro-rata payments to address audit findings from Phase I of the PYEI-BEEI and align with good governance and financial management principles outlined in the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). These guidelines assist schools in creating common standards on deductions.
Stipend for Phase III and Contract Provisions
For Phase III, the DBE set the stipend equivalent to the National Minimum Wage (NMW), which is R23.19 per hour or R4,081.44 per month, including the employee contribution towards the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF). After deducting the 1% employee contribution towards UIF (R40.81), the monthly stipend for assistants is R4,040.63. The employment contract for Phase III includes provisions regarding deductions and vacation leave.
Training and Upskilling Opportunities for Youth
The PYEI aims to provide youth with learning and earning opportunities, support livelihoods, and address high youth unemployment levels in South Africa. The initiative focuses on equipping beneficiaries with skills and competencies to enhance future employment prospects.
The Department of Basic Education has partnered with various organizations, including Digify Africa, NEMISA, 2Enable, and Pinnock Consulting, to offer training and learning materials to youth appointed in schools. These offerings cover online safety, digital literacy, e-learning, and the National School Safety Framework (NSSF) training.
The DBE is committed to ensuring that all youth appointed in schools through the PYEI gain meaningful experience and access valuable learning opportunities. Participants must complete various training courses to enhance their skills and empower themselves. Those seeking additional information on accessing training can email beei@dbe.gov.za.