Introduction: What You Need to Know About the Top List Of Learnership Programme 2026
The Top List Of Learnership Programme 2026 is one of the most important resources for unemployed youth in South Africa today. With youth unemployment remaining a significant socio-economic challenge, learnerships offer a rare chance to earn while you learn, gain real work experience, and earn a certification that boosts your employability. These programmes often lead to permanent jobs and give participants hands-on exposure in sectors ranging from engineering and technology to finance, logistics, and healthcare.(YouthSpace)
Below is a comprehensive list of the most relevant 2026 learnerships available right now, including direct application links where available, requirements, and helpful tips.
Why Learnerships Matter in 2026
Learnerships combine theory and workplace experience to give you a competitive edge in the job market. Unlike traditional internships, learnerships in South Africa are accredited, structured training programmes that lead to a qualification recognised by industry and often include a monthly stipend.(sseta.co.za)
Key benefits include:
- Practical workplace experience
- Recognised certification upon completion
- Monthly allowances/stipends in many cases
- Improved chances of permanent employment
- Networking with industry professionals
How to Prepare Before You Apply
Before applying to any learnership programme, ensure you have the following:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified Matric certificate or highest qualification
- Updated and professional CV
- Contactable references
- Proof of residence
Tip: Set up email alerts for new opportunities and check portals regularly — many programmes open unpredictably throughout the year.(YouthSpace)
Top List Of Learnership Programme 2026 (With Application Links)
Here is the expanded list of the most sought-after learnership programmes in South Africa for 2026 — with application info and links wherever publicly available:
1. Eskom Learnerships 2026 – Engineering & Technical Trades
Fields: Electrical, Mechanical, Plant Operations
Stipend: Variable
Requirements: Matric with Maths & Science
How to Apply: Visit Eskom Careers – https://www.eskom.co.za/careers/
Why Apply: One of the largest SOE offers in engineering and industrial skills.(preeminent opportunities portal)
2. Transnet Learnerships 2026 – Logistics & Freight
Fields: Logistics, Rail Operations, Freight Handling
Requirements: Grade 12
How to Apply: https://www.transnet.net/careers/
Benefits: National placements and workplace exposure in transport.(preeminent opportunities portal)
3. South African Airways Technical (SAAT) Learnerships
Field: Aviation Technical & Mechanical
Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng
Apply: Search SAAT Careers (often on SAPS careers portal)
Value: Structured technical training leading to artisan or trade certification.(YouthSpace)
4. Bank and Financial Services Learnership Programmes
Providers: Capitec, Standard Bank, Nedbank, FNB
Fields: Banking, Client Services, Contact Centre
Example Apply Link: Standard Bank Careers – https://www.standardbank.co.za/southafrica/
Benefit: Entry into finance with accredited certifications.(preeminent opportunities portal)
5. SETA Learnerships (Multiple Industry Disciplines)
South Africa has 21 SETAs offering a variety of learnerships across sectors such as banking (BankSETA Learnerships), chemicals (CHIETA Learnerships), and education (ETDP SETA Learnerships).
Start your application here:
- BANKSETA: https://www.bankseta.org.za/learnerships/
- CHIETA: https://www.chieta.org.za/learning-programmes/learnerships/
- ETDP SETA: https://www.etdpseta.org.za/
These SETA roles often include monthly allowances.(learnlinksa)
6. Municipal and Government Learnerships 2026
Local municipalities and government departments provide learnerships in administration, community services and technical roles.
Apply via provincial portals such as:
- Department of Labour – https://www.labour.gov.za/learnerships
- SAPS Learnerships – https://www.saps.gov.za/careers/
- Provincial Health Learnerships – via provincial health websites
Many government learnerships are recurring each year and open early in 2026.(preeminent opportunities portal)
7. Retail, FMCG & Service Provider Learnerships
Major South African companies offer retail and service learnerships:
- Shoprite Learnerships 2026: Retail & Customer Service
- Clicks Pharmacy Learnerships: Healthcare retail support
- Coca-Cola Beverages SA: Sales & Distribution
- VKB Fuels Service Attendant Learnership: Customer service & forecourt operations (apply via VKB portal)
For retail learnerships, always check the company careers page or career portal.(YouthSpace)
8. Management & Office Administration Learnerships
These roles help develop office, administration, and supervisory skills. Many service and management learnerships are offered through private training providers and corporate B-BBEE initiatives. Common application channels include direct employer portals or email submissions.(YouthSpace)
9. Health & Social Services Learnerships
Provincial Health Departments and agencies offer roles such as:
- Community Health Worker
- Healthcare Administration
- Auxiliary nursing support
Apply through provincial Department of Health careers portals. Healthcare is a consistently in-demand sector.(preeminent opportunities portal)
10. IT & Technical Support Learnerships
Provider: MICT SETA accredited initiatives and corporate learnerships
Fields: Technical support, helpdesk, systems fundamentals
Where to apply: Check on company careers pages or SETA partners — for example, MICT SETA postings.
This stream opens opportunities into the tech sector, especially for youth with basic computer skills.(Youth Space)
Helpful Internal and External Resources
Internal Resource
For ongoing postings and tools to help you apply to learnerships — including application tips, CV help, and interview guidance — visit ****
Official Government Resources
- DHET Learnership Information: https://www.gov.za (search “learnerships”)
- Labour Sector Training & SETA career portals: various SETA official sites
These sources help you verify opportunities and avoid scams.(sseta.co.za)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the minimum age for learnerships?
Most learnerships require applicants to be 18 years or older, though specific age requirements vary by programme.
Do learnerships pay stipends?
Yes, many programmes offer monthly allowances or stipends — amounts depend on the employer and SETA funding.(YouthSpace)
Can Grade 12 holders apply?
Yes — most programmes accept Matric holders. Some SETA learnerships also accept Grade 10.
Do learnerships lead to jobs?
Yes. Many graduates of learnership programmes are offered extended contracts or permanent positions after completion due to their workplace experience.
Final Tips for Success
- Apply early and follow instructions exactly.
- Ensure all documents are certified and up-to-date.
- Tailor your CV to the position you are applying for.
- Visit trusted sites like Linkinn regularly for updates.
Taking action today could transform your career prospects in 2026 and beyond.
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