Department of Labour Counselor Deployment Programme (X130 positions). The Counsellor Deployment Programme under the Presidential Youth Programme (PYP) 2025/2026 is a transformative initiative by the South African government aimed at addressing youth unemployment and enhancing the nation’s mental health services. This programme offers 235 Counsellor positions across various provinces, providing a unique opportunity for qualified individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Programme Overview
- Position Title: Counsellor – Deployment Programme
- Number of Posts: 235
- Monthly Stipend: R7,450.63
- Application Portal: Department of Labour
The programme is structured to deploy Counsellors in various provincial centres, ensuring widespread access to mental health services and employment counselling.
Provincial Distribution of Posts
| Province | Reference Number | Number of Posts |
|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | HR4/24/06/01GP | 50 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | HR4/24/06/02KZN | 29 |
| Eastern Cape | HR4/24/06/03EC | 31 |
| Western Cape | HR4/24/06/04WC | 22 |
| Mpumalanga | HR4/24/06/05MP | 25 |
| North West | HR4/24/06/06NW | 20 |
| Northern Cape | HR4/24/06/07NC | 14 |
| Limpopo | HR4/24/06/08LP | 24 |
| Free State | HR4/24/06/09FS | 20 |
This distribution ensures that each province benefits from the programme, promoting equitable access to counselling services nationwide.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Counsellor Deployment Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Qualification: A three-year tertiary qualification majoring in Psychology or Industrial Psychology.
- Professional Registration: Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Registered Counsellor (Independent Practice) or Psychometrics (Independent Practice) is advantageous.
Competencies and Skills
Successful candidates will possess:
- Communication Skills: Proficiency in both verbal and written communication to effectively interact with clients and stakeholders.
- Research Abilities: Capability to conduct research to identify labour market needs and best practices in employment counselling.
- Administrative Skills: Strong organizational skills to manage documentation and scheduling efficiently.
- Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build rapport with clients, demonstrating empathy and patience.
Programme Objectives
The Counsellor Deployment Programme aims to:
- Provide practical work experience to psychology graduates.
- Enhance the delivery of counselling services across South Africa.
- Address the high unemployment rates among youth by offering meaningful employment opportunities.
- Strengthen the mental health support system within communities.
Application Process
Interested candidates should:
- Prepare a comprehensive CV highlighting relevant qualifications and experience.
- Obtain certified copies of academic transcripts and HPCSA registration (if applicable).
- Submit applications through the official portal: [Insert Application Link Here].
- Ensure all documents are submitted before the application deadline.
Why Join the Counsellor Deployment Programme?
- Professional Growth: Gain hands-on experience in the field of counselling.
- Community Impact: Play a pivotal role in improving mental health services in your province.
- Career Advancement: Enhance your resume with government-backed work experience.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals in the field of psychology and public health.
Conclusion
The Counsellor Deployment Programme is more than just a job opportunity; it’s a chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of South Africans. By participating, you contribute to a healthier, more resilient society while advancing your professional journey.
