Looking for the latest learnerships in South Africa for 2026? You’re in the right place.
Learnerships are one of the most popular career opportunities in South Africa, especially for young people seeking skills, experience, and employment. They offer a paid learning opportunity where participants gain both theory and practical training, often leading to permanent employment.
In this guide, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 2026 learnerships currently open for applications — including government, private sector, and SOE (state-owned enterprise) opportunities.
What is a Learnership?
A learnership is a structured learning program that combines classroom-based education with on-the-job training. Learnerships are registered with the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) and are available to both unemployed and employed South Africans.
These programs are especially helpful for young people who want to:
Gain work experience while studying
Earn a monthly stipend
Obtain an NQF-recognized qualification
Improve employment opportunities
Benefits of a Learnership
You earn while you learn
Gain real work experience with top employers
Receive a recognized qualification (NQF Level 2–6)
Opportunity for permanent employment after completion
Boost your career and CV with professional training
Top Learnerships in South Africa 2026
Below is a list of active and upcoming learnerships you can apply for in 2026.
1. Eskom Learnership 2026
Fields: Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, and Power Plant Operations
Stipend: R8,000 – R10,000 per month
Requirements: Matric with Maths & Science, South African citizen
Apply at: www.eskom.co.za
2. Transnet Learnership 2026
Fields: Logistics, Freight Handling, Engineering, Maritime
Requirements: Grade 12, or relevant diploma/degree
Covers: Stipend + on-the-job training
Apply via: www.transnet.net
3. SASSA Learnership 2026
Fields: Office Administration, Customer Service, HR, and Finance
Requirements: Matric or National Diploma
Location: All provinces
Apply at: www.sassa.gov.za
4. Department of Health Learnership 2026
Fields: Nursing, Pharmacy, Radiography, Community Health
Stipend: R6,500 – R9,000 monthly
Requirement: Matric with Life Sciences & English
Apply via: Provincial Health Department
5. SAPS Learnership 2026
Fields: Police Training, Forensic Services, Administration
Requirements: South African citizen, no criminal record
Covers: Full training + stipend
Apply at: www.saps.gov.za
6. Coca-Cola Learnership 2026
Fields: Sales, Logistics, Marketing, Supply Chain
Stipend: R7,500 – R10,000
Requirements: Matric, communication skills
Apply via: www.coca-cola.co.za
7. Capitec Learnership 2026
Fields: Banking, Customer Service, Finance
Location: Nationwide
Stipend: R6,000 – R8,500
Apply at: www.capitecbank.co.za
8. Department of Public Works Learnership 2026
Fields: Construction, Engineering, Plumbing, Bricklaying
Eligibility: Matric/Grade 10 minimum
Apply via: www.publicworks.gov.za
9. SARB (South African Reserve Bank) Learnership 2026
Fields: Accounting, Economics, IT, Finance
Stipend: R10,000+
Requirements: Diploma or degree in a relevant field
Apply at: www.resbank.co.za
10. Sasol Learnership 2026
Fields: Chemical Operations, Process Engineering, Fitting & Turning
Requirements: Matric with Maths and Science
Stipend: R8,000 – R12,000 per month
Apply via: www.sasol.com
Other Learnerships Available in 2026
Shoprite Learnerships 2026 – Retail, Customer Service
Clicks Learnerships 2026 – Pharmacy Assistant
Nedbank Learnerships 2026 – Banking and Finance
MTN Learnerships 2026 – IT, Telecommunications
FNB Learnerships 2026 – Banking and Data Analytics
Minimum Requirements for Learnerships
To qualify, you typically need:
South African citizenship
Matric certificate (Grade 12)
Aged 18–35 years
Unemployed (for public learnerships)
Good communication and teamwork skills
Documents Needed
Certified ID copy
Updated CV
Proof of residence
Certified copies of qualifications
Application form (from official website)
How to Apply for Learnerships in South Africa 2026
Visit the official website of the organization offering the learnership.
Read the full requirements before applying.
Prepare certified documents (ID, certificates, CV).
Submit your application online or email it to the HR department.
Follow up by checking your email or the career portal for updates.
Tips for a Successful Application
Apply early before the deadline.
Submit only one application per organization.
Ensure all your documents are recently certified.
Write a strong motivation letter showing your passion for the field.
Why You Should Apply Now
Thousands of South African youth are applying for 2026 learnerships daily — those who apply early stand a better chance. Many of these programs close in December or January, so now is the best time to secure your spot.