Tourism Monitors Programme Offers Youth Opportunities in Conservation and Tourism
- Karen Scheepers
- Sep 1
- 2 min read
Young South Africans passionate about tourism and the environment are being offered an opportunity to gain valuable training and work experience through the Tourism Monitors Programme. Applications for the initiative, which forms part of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), close on 3 September 2025.
The programme combines theoretical training with hands-on fieldwork, placing successful applicants at national parks, nature reserves, museums, and tourism sites across the country. Participants receive a stipend of R200 per day over a seven-month contract, making this both a developmental and income-generating opportunity.
Who Can Apply
The programme targets unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 35 who are South African citizens. Applicants must have:
A Matric certificate or equivalent qualification.
Proficiency in English and literacy skills.
Proof of residence within 40–100 km of the site they are applying for.
Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays.
A passion for tourism and environmental conservation.
Additional requirements include own reliable transport, and in certain placements, accommodation may be provided in park camps. Applicants should also be prepared for fitness assessments, which involve a 2.4 km run, push-ups, and sit-ups within set timeframes.
Importantly, previous participants in the Tourism Monitors Programme are not eligible to reapply.
Deployment Across Provinces
The programme is recruiting across multiple provinces, including the Northern Cape, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, North West, and Free State. Sites range from botanical gardens and tourism bureaus to game reserves and border posts.
Examples of participating locations include:
Hantam Botanical Garden (Northern Cape)
Harold Porter Botanical Garden in Betty’s Bay (Western Cape)
Bulungula in the Eastern Cape
Royal Natal National Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal
Madikwe Nature Reserve in the North West
Kopfontein Border in the North West
Van Rooyens Border Gate in the Free State
Each site has its own application link via the SA Youth mobi portal.
Support for Applicants
To assist applicants, SA Youth has made help available via WhatsApp and helplines. Applicants can update their information through the SA Youth Verification Line (087 240 5323) or access general support by saving 0800 72 72 72 as “SA Youth” and initiating a WhatsApp chat.
Final Thoughts
The Tourism Monitors Programme not only addresses youth unemployment but also strengthens South Africa’s tourism and conservation efforts by creating a new generation of custodians for the country’s natural and cultural heritage. With the closing date just around the corner, interested youth are encouraged to apply promptly and secure their place in this national initiative.
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