All Learnerships Open in 2026: Apply Now for Paid Training Opportunities Across South Africa

Learnership opportunities for 2026 are now open across multiple industries in South Africa. From banking and retail to engineering, ICT, and government programmes, thousands of positions are available for unemployed youth.

These programmes combine accredited classroom training with real workplace experience. Most offer a monthly stipend and lead to nationally recognised qualifications.

If you are between 18 and 35 and looking for a structured way into employment, this is the time to apply.

What Is a Learnership?

A learnership is a formal training programme registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). It blends theory with practical workplace learning.

Participants sign a fixed-term contract and receive a monthly stipend while completing the programme.

Most learnerships run for 12 months, although some technical programmes may run longer.

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Industries With Learnerships Open in 2026

Banking and Finance

Banks and financial institutions are offering learnerships in:

• Business Administration
• Banking Services
• Financial Management
• Insurance
• Contact Centre Operations

Apply through company career portals such as:

https://studentdesk.co.za/absa-junior-learnership-2026-full-time-banking-training-programme-for-graduates/
https://www.absa.africa/absaafrica/careers/
https://careers.standardbank.com/
https://www.fnb.co.za/careers/

Retail and Sales

Retail companies are offering opportunities in:

• Wholesale and Retail Operations
• Store Support
• Sales Assistance
• Customer Service

Apply via:
https://www.capeunionmart.co.za/pages/careers
https://careers.shopriteholdings.co.za/
https://www.motus.co.za/careers/

Engineering and Technical Fields

Technical learnerships are open in:

• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Millwright Trades
• Chemical Operations
• Civil Construction

Apply through:

https://studentdesk.co.za/transnet-work-integrated-learning-programme-2026-18-month-non-technical-workplace-training-for-youth/
https://www.sasol.com/careers
https://careersatvopak.com/

ICT and Digital Skills

ICT-related programmes include:

• IT Support
• Software Development
• Data Analytics
• Computer Science internships

Apply via:

https://studentdesk.co.za/ceta-ict-graduate-internship-2026/
https://www.altron.com/careers
https://www.totalenergies.com/careers

Government and SETA Programmes

Public sector learnerships include:

• Public Management
• Administration
• HR Internships
• Skills Development

Apply through:

https://studentdesk.co.za/johannesburg-city-parks-and-zoo-horticultural-learnership-2026/
https://www.dpsa.gov.za/
https://www.nsfas.org.za/
https://www.sayouth.mobi/Join

SAYouth registration link (data-free access):
https://sayouth.mobi/Join

Skills and Entrepreneurship Training

Short-term accredited skills programmes are also open in:

• Office Administration
• Cellphone Repair
• Supply Chain
• Contact Centre Operations

Apply via:

https://studentdesk.co.za/mkri-cellphone-repair-training-programme-2026/
https://www.vitalonline.co.za/
https://forms.gle/goiQuwED8sEydH7LA

Who Can Apply

Most 2026 learnerships require:

• South African citizenship
• Age between 18 and 35
• Grade 12 (Matric)
• Unemployed status

Some technical programmes require Mathematics and Physical Science. Others require diplomas or degrees.

Always check individual requirements before applying.

What You Will Gain

Successful applicants receive:

• Nationally recognised qualification
• Practical workplace experience
• Monthly stipend
• Exposure to professional environments
• Improved employment prospects

Many learners secure permanent roles after completion.

Documents You Will Need

Prepare the following:

• Updated CV
• Certified copy of ID
• Certified copies of qualifications
• Proof of residence
• Motivation letter

Ensure certifications are not older than six months.

Apply Early

Closing dates vary by company. Some opportunities close within days due to high application volumes.

Register on multiple platforms and apply as soon as positions open.

Conclusion

Learnerships open in 2026 provide real opportunities for unemployed youth across South Africa. With options in finance, retail, engineering, ICT, and government sectors, there is a pathway for nearly every qualification level.

Take time to review the available links above, prepare your documents, and apply early. A learnership can be the first step toward long-term employment and career growth.