Learnerships in South Africa
Learnerships are one of the most powerful tools available to young people in South Africa who want to gain practical work experience while studying toward a recognised qualification. Designed to bridge the gap between education and the working world, learnerships help students and unemployed youth to develop real-world skills in their chosen career paths.
Unlike traditional study, learnerships combine classroom learning with structured on-the-job training. This means that while you are studying, you are also gaining valuable work experience. This model has become increasingly important in a country like South Africa where youth unemployment is high and employers are looking for candidates with experience.
Learnerships are registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and often lead to an accredited qualification at NQF level 4 or higher. They are usually offered by companies in partnership with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), which help ensure the training provided is relevant and meets industry needs.
Why Learnerships Matter
In South Africa, learnerships are more than just job training programmes. They offer an opportunity for students to:
- Earn a monthly stipend while gaining work experience
- Work towards a recognised qualification
- Improve their chances of full-time employment after completing the programme
- Develop workplace skills that are valued across industries
For many students, especially those from under-resourced communities, a learnership provides the first step toward a successful and stable career. Some programmes even offer permanent placement once the training is complete.
Notable Learnerships in South Africa
Below are some of the well-known learnership opportunities that are open to South African youth in 2025. These programmes are offered by reputable companies and government departments across various fields of study and employment.
1. BANKSETA Kuyasa Learnership
This 12-month learnership is designed for graduates who want to enter the banking sector. It focuses on financial services skills and workplace readiness. Ideal for students with qualifications in Human Resources, Marketing, Business Administration, and related fields.
2. BANKSETA Letsema Learnership
The Letsema Learnership is for unemployed matriculants who want to gain experience in the banking industry. It runs for one year and provides training in key areas such as customer service and banking operations.
3. Ekapa Apprenticeship
Ekapa offers apprenticeship opportunities in the mining sector, focusing on trades like fitting, turning, and electrical engineering. These programmes are aimed at students interested in technical and artisan roles.
4. Megchem Learnership
Megchem offers learnerships and apprenticeships in the chemical and engineering industries. This programme is well-suited for students with a background in mathematics and science, looking to work in industrial engineering.
5. Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport Learnership
This government programme provides young people with training in fields such as construction, roads maintenance, and transport services. It is ideal for those looking to gain public sector experience in a technical field.
6. Pick n Pay Learnerships
Pick n Pay offers learnerships in retail operations, customer service, and logistics. These opportunities help students develop skills in one of the country’s largest retail sectors and often lead to full-time employment in stores or warehouses.
7. Seriti Learnership
Seriti, a major mining company in South Africa, offers learnerships for students interested in mining, engineering, and environmental management. These programmes provide both academic learning and practical exposure at mine sites.
8. Takealot Learnerships
Takealot offers learnerships in e-commerce, IT, logistics, and supply chain management. These positions are ideal for students with digital skills who are interested in working in South Africa’s growing online retail space.
Who Can Apply for a Learnership?
While each programme has its own entry requirements, most learnerships in South Africa are aimed at:
- Unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 35
- South African citizens with a valid ID
- Students who have completed Grade 12 or a tertiary qualification
- Individuals who are passionate about gaining work experience while studying
Learnerships play an important role in helping young South Africans move from school to the workplace. They give students a chance to earn, learn, and grow within a supportive environment. If you are a student looking to gain hands-on experience and build your career, applying for a learnership could be your next best step.
Keep visiting BursaryForms.co.za for the latest learnership opportunities, application tips, and updates on new programmes launching throughout the year.