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Explore the UIF Labour Activation Programme Contact Centre Learnership 2025/2026 for unemployed South Africans aged 18–28. Gain experience, earn a monthly allowance, and build a career in customer service.
UIF LAP Contact Centre Learnership 2025/2026 for Young South Africans
South Africa’s youth continue to face serious challenges when it comes to finding stable employment, and many young people struggle to gain the experience and qualifications needed to access real opportunities. The UIF Labour Activation Programme (LAP) Contact Centre Learnership 2025/2026 is designed to help young, motivated South Africans build valuable skills, gain workplace exposure, and earn a monthly allowance while they learn.
This 12-month programme is offered through a partnership between the Department of Employment and Labour, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), and the Ubuntu Institute. Their shared mission is to equip young people with relevant skills, reduce unemployment, and prepare learners for a growing demand in careers such as customer service and contact centre operations.
Whether you want to secure your first job, boost your confidence, or begin a career in a contact centre environment, this learnership gives you a solid place to start.
Why This Learnership Matters
Contact centres are among the country’s major employers, and both local and international companies continuously need trained agents. These roles require strong communication skills, patience, problem-solving abilities, and professionalism. This learnership helps you develop all of these abilities through structured training and hands-on workplace experience.
This opportunity is specifically aimed at unemployed young South Africans who have previously contributed to the UIF. If you meet the criteria, the programme gives you the chance to gain skills employers look for and increase your chances of finding long-term employment.
Quick Overview
Programme Name: UIF LAP Contact Centre Learnership
Duration: 12 months
Allowance: R2,000 per month
Who May Apply: South African citizens aged 18–28
Employment Status: Must be unemployed
UIF Requirement: Must have contributed previously
Education Level: Grade 12 (Matric)
Programme Partners: Department of Employment and Labour, UIF, Ubuntu Institute
Meet the Teams Behind the Programme
Department of Employment and Labour
This department plays a major role in promoting fair labour practices, protecting workers’ rights, and creating access to employment opportunities. It also supports youth development through various skills and work-readiness programmes.
Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF)
Aside from supporting workers who have lost their jobs, the UIF invests in skills development through the Labour Activation Programme. Funding this learnership is part of their long-term strategy to reduce unemployment and build a more capable workforce.
Ubuntu Institute
The Ubuntu Institute focuses on youth development and works with various partners to provide training opportunities. Their goal is to help young people gain the skills and confidence needed to enter the job market.
Together, these three organisations offer a strong foundation for learners to gain valuable experience and qualifications.
Are You the Right Fit? (Programme Requirements)
Before applying, make sure you meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 28 years old
- Be unemployed at the time of application
- Have previously contributed to UIF
- Not be enrolled in another internship or learnership
- Have completed Grade 12
- Be interested in customer service or contact centre work
- Be able to commit to a full 12-month learnership
- Have access to a smartphone for communication and online learning
- Be motivated, reliable, and willing to learn
Applicants living with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
What You Need to Apply
Prepare these documents before submitting your application:
- A certified copy of your South African ID (certified within the last 2 months)
- A certified copy of your Matric certificate or highest qualification
- An updated CV
- Proof of residential address
- A medical certificate if you have a disability
- SARS letter
Make sure all documents are clear, readable, and recently certified.
How to Apply
Submit your application through the official link provided for the UIF LAP Contact Centre Learnership:
APPLY FOR THE UIF LAP CONTACT CENTRE LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME 2025/2026 HERE
The programme is completely free, and no applicant should ever pay for forms or assistance.
What to Expect During the 12-Month Learnership
Classroom Training
Training covers essential contact centre skills, including:
- Customer service principles
- Telephone and communication etiquette
- Data capturing
- Complaint handling
- Conflict resolution
- Computer literacy and call centre systems
Practical Workplace Experience
Learners are placed at contact centres to apply what they learn. This experience helps build confidence, workplace readiness, and real customer service skills.
Monthly Allowance
All participants receive a R2,000 monthly allowance to assist with basic needs while training.
Continuous Coaching
Learners receive ongoing support from trainers and supervisors throughout the programme.
Nationally Recognised Qualification
After successful completion, learners receive a recognised qualification that strengthens their CV and opens the door to more opportunities.
Why You Should Consider Applying
This learnership offers several advantages:
- You gain hands-on experience while learning
- You earn a monthly allowance
- You become job-ready
- Your CV becomes stronger
- The programme is supported by credible partners
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need previous work experience?
No, experience is not required.
Will I be paid during the learnership?
Yes, learners receive a R2,000 allowance each month.
Can I apply if I have never contributed to UIF?
No, prior UIF contribution is required.
Can I apply if I’m older than 28?
No, only applicants aged 18–28 qualify.
Do I need a smartphone?
Yes, you will need it for communication and some online learning.
Can I have a job while doing the learnership?
No, it requires full-time commitment.
Is the programme free?
Yes, there are no fees associated with applying or participating.
What qualification will I receive?
A recognised Contact Centre Operations qualification.
Are people with disabilities allowed to apply?
Yes, the programme welcomes applicants with disabilities.
How long is the programme?
The learnership lasts for 12 months.
Final Thoughts
The UIF LAP Contact Centre Learnership 2025/2026 gives young South Africans a real chance to build a stable future. With reliable partners, structured training, and workplace exposure, this programme prepares you for the demands of the job market. If you meet the requirements and want to grow your skills, apply and take a meaningful step toward a better future.
