Central SA
More than a million apply to become police recruits─── REFILWE BEKANE 06:30 Tue, 22 Jul 2025
The pursuit of a career within the police service has once again demonstrated its widespread appeal, with the 2025/26 Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP) receiving an unprecedented volume of applications.
A recent police report shows more than a million applications were lodged by the closing date on Friday (18/7), or a total of 1,049,998.
This remarkable figure includes 334,765 applicants holding NQF 6 (diploma) or higher qualifications, underscoring a significant pool of educated individuals eager to serve. Despite this evident enthusiasm and the substantial number of highly qualified applicants, securing employment within the police service remains a considerable challenge.
Screengrab: Stats SA
The sheer volume of applications far exceeds the available positions, according to the SAPS statement.
The police recently initiated an e-recruitment drive for 5,500 police trainees, a stark contrast to the over one million aspiring candidates. This disparity highlights a broader national concern: South Africa’s persistent struggle with high unemployment, particularly among its youth and graduates.
Statistics
According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for the first quarter of 2025, the unemployment rate saw an uptick of one percentage point, reaching 32.9%.
It further stated that unemployment remains particularly high among younger demographics, with individuals aged 15-24 experiencing a rate of 62.4%, and those aged 25-34 facing an unemployment rate of 40.4%.
Screengrab: Stats SA
“The Graduate unemployment rate increased by 3,0 percentage points from 8,7% in Q4:2024 to 11,7% in Q1:2025. Those with matric and less than matric remain vulnerable with unemployment rates of 34,9% and 39,0% respectively,” said Stats SA.
Basic Police Development Learning Programme applicants
According to the police, the Free State contributed 73,214 applications, while the North West saw 66,167. The Northern Cape recorded the fewest applications with 26,186.
The application window for the BPDLP has now closed, and the police service website will no longer accept new submissions. The organisation has extended its well-wishes to all hopefuls embarking on this journey.
The next phase of the rigorous selection process will involve contacting, within the next three months, those whose profiles align with the predetermined criteria.
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