Learnerships in South Africa 2026
What learnerships are, who qualifies, how much you get paid, and how to find opportunities across South Africa.
What Is a Learnership?
A learnership is a structured work-based learning programme that combines theoretical training with practical workplace experience. It leads to a nationally recognised qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Learnerships are funded by companies through the Skills Development Levies Act and overseen by SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities). They are designed to help unemployed South Africans — especially youth — gain qualifications and workplace experience.
Benefits of a Learnership
- Earn a monthly stipend while you learn (you are not paying for the training)
- Gain a nationally recognised NQF qualification
- Get real workplace experience that improves your employability
- Build a professional network and references
- May lead to permanent employment with the host company
- Gives you skills to start your own business or continue studying
Who Qualifies?
Requirements vary by programme, but typically:
- South African citizen with a valid ID
- Minimum Grade 12 (matric) — some accept Grade 10/11
- Between 18 and 35 years old (many programmes target youth)
- Currently unemployed
- No prior qualification in the field (for entry-level learnerships)
Learnership Stipends
R2,500
Entry level / month
R3,500
Mid-level / month
R5,000+
Skilled / month
Stipend amounts vary by SETA, NQF level, and employer. Duration is typically 12 months.
Top Sectors Offering Learnerships
Information Technology
Software development, networking, cybersecurity, IT support
Finance & Accounting
Banking, bookkeeping, financial services, insurance
Healthcare
Community health work, pharmacy assistance, nursing support
Education
Assistant teaching, early childhood development (ECD)
Construction & Engineering
Plumbing, electrical, civil engineering support
Retail & Hospitality
Customer service, food preparation, retail management
Agriculture
Farming, agri-processing, food production
Public Sector
Government administration, municipal services
How to Find and Apply
SAYouth.mobi
Register on SAYouth.mobi — a zero-rated platform (no data needed) that connects youth with learnerships and other opportunities near you.
Visit SAYouth.mobiCompany websites
Large South African companies like Vodacom, Standard Bank, Woolworths, Pick n Pay, and Transnet regularly advertise learnerships on their websites — usually between January–March and July–August.
SETA websites
Visit the SETA website for your sector of interest (e.g. MICT SETA for tech, INSETA for insurance) to find accredited learnerships in your field.
Job portals
Search 'learnership 2026' on Drimmaz and other job portals. Filter by province to find opportunities near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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