Blessing Khumalo

Blessing Khumalo is the heartbeat behind Careers South Africa, a passionate Joburg-born career catalyst with a BCom in Human Resource Management and a Postgraduate Diploma in Youth Development. As a former Talent Acquisition Specialist at a top Gauteng tech firm, Blessing scouted diamonds in the rough—launching hundreds of young South Africans into dream roles amid economic headwinds. Now channeling that magic into Careers South Africa blog, he handpicks verified youth opportunities, from learnerships to internships, ensuring township hustlers and campus grads alike grab their shot at success. When not curating game-changing listings or dishing CV hacks, Blessing will be brewing chamomile tea, mentoring Soweto startups, or hiking Magaliesberg. "Your first job shouldn't be a lottery—connect with Blessing!"

ABB South Africa Graduate in Training Opportunity – Full Time Intern Student

April 13, 2026 by Blessing Khumalo

Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

ABB helps industries run leaner and cleaner—and every person at the company makes that happen. You’ll be empowered to lead, supported to grow, and proud of the impact the company creates together.

This position reports to: Marketing & Sales Manager

What ABB believes in

ABB is dedicated to addressing global challenges. The company’s core values: care, courage, curiosity, and collaboration – combined with a focus on diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities – are key drivers in its aim to empower everyone to create sustainable solutions.

About the program: ABB South Africa Graduate in Training Opportunity – Full Time Intern Student

In ABB Graduates In Training, you will develop skills necessary to kickstart a career in the division you are assigned in at ABB. All ABB Young Talent Programs are based on the 70:20:10 Model of Learning and Development which is: Hands-on (70%); Asking questions (20%) Classroom (10%).

As a trainee you will be a part of community, and you will participate in activities with other trainees like taking parts in training to enhance soft & technical skills, meeting project deadlines, and engaging in diverse social and team-building activities to expand your network within ABB.

Your role and responsibilities

Support sales teams in customer acquisition and retention
Analyze market data and customer insights to inform commercial strategies
Build and maintain relationships with key customers and stakeholders
Collaborate with teams across divisions to deliver customer solutions
Adapt to changing market conditions and business priorities

Essential Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Business Administration, Marketing or related field
Graduates with no more than 2 years of work experience
Minimum average grade of 65%
South African citizens only

Required Skills & Attributes

Data Analysis – Ability to interpret data and metrics to support decision-making
Confidence to Speak with Customers – Comfortable engaging with clients at all levels
Team Collaboration – Works effectively with diverse teams across departments
Adaptability – Thrives in fast-paced, changing business environments
Excellent Communication Skills – Clear communicator in English, both written and verbal
Problem-solving mindset and business acumen
Growth mindset with passion for continuous learning

What’s in it for you?

ABB wants you to bring your full self to work—your ideas, your energy, your ambition. You’ll have the tools and freedom to grow your skills, shape your path, and take on challenges that matter. Here, your work creates impact you can see and feel, every day.

Benefits

From well-being to retirement, ABB offers benefits that support every stage of your career.

More about ABB

ABB (Asea Brown Boveri) is a Swiss-Swedish multinational technology leader in electrification and automation, headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. With over 140 years of history, the company operates in over 100 countries, employing roughly 110,000 people to drive sustainable, resource-efficient solutions for industry and infrastructure.

ABB values people from different backgrounds. Could this be your story? Apply today or visit www.abb.com to read more about us and learn about the impact of ABB solutions across the globe. Preference will be given to employment equity candidates. Building a cleaner, smarter future takes all kinds of minds: the curious, the courageous, and the creative. That’s why ABB welcomes people from all backgrounds and experiences.

HOW TO APPLY

CLICK ON THIS LINK TO APPLY

Get Connected!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/careerssouthafrica/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/careers-south-africa-za/

WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JVphaaPQEOU9VBlpVJAtIi?mode=gi_t

WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb7gAx5J3jupoQfCwt2n

South African Reserve Bank Information Technology Internship: Grow-IT Specialising in AI

April 11, 2026 by Blessing Khumalo

Location: Johannesburg and Pretoria, South Africa

Brief description

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) invites all passionate, innovative and talented applicants to apply for its 2027 Information Technology Internship (Grow-IT). Through this programme, the SARB actively contributes to addressing scarce and critical skills needs.

Grow-IT is an internship programme aimed at addressing the current and future skills needs of the SARB’s Business Solutions and Technology Department (BSTD), supporting departmental strategy and workforce planning. This includes capacity and capability building, succession planning and developing future talent within the department. During the programme, learners will gain the necessary technical and behavioural competencies based on their areas of specialisation.

Format of the programme

Successful applicants will be placed within the information technology (IT) environment to acquire all the required competencies. The duration of the programme is a one-year contract (with an option to extend).

Qualifications: South African Reserve Bank Information Technology Internship

Requirements

To be considered for this internship, candidates must:

either have a National Diploma in IT (NQF 6); a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics or IT, with exposure to artificial intelligence (AI) and data engineering; or a BTech degree in Computer Science Engineering, AI and Machine Learning or Data Science (NQF 7);
be a South African citizen;
be between the ages of 18 and 35 years; and
be curious, self-motivated and innovative.

The following will be an advantage:

Familiarity with working in cloud platforms (Google, AWS, Microsoft Azure)
Python programming language
Basic understanding of Model Context Protocol (MCP)

The focus for this intake would be AI.

In line with the SARB’s commitment to diversifying its workforce, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups. People with disabilities are welcome to apply.

About SARB

Primary mandate of the SARB: Section 224 of the Constitution of South Africa states the mandate of the SARB as follows:

The primary object of the South African Reserve Bank is to protect the value of the currency in the interest of balanced and sustainable economic growth in the Republic. The South African Reserve Bank, in support of its primary objective, must perform its functions independently and without fear, favour or prejudice.

WHAT SARB DOES

Monetary Policy: The Constitution gives the SARB the mandate to protect the value of the rand. SARB uses interest rates to keep inﬂation low and steady.

Financial Stability: The SARB has a mandate to protect and enhance ﬁnancial stability. It identifies and mitigate systemic risks that might disrupt the ﬁnancial system.

Prudential Regulation: The Prudential Authority regulates ﬁnancial institutions and market infrastructures to promote and enhance their safety and soundness, and support ﬁnancial stability.

Financial Markets: Open market operations are the main tool we use to implement monetary policy. It manages South Africa’s gold and foreign exchange reserves.

Financial Surveillance: The SARB is responsible for regulating cross-border transactions, preventing the abuse of the financial system and supporting the regulation of financial institutions.

Payments and Settlements: The SARB is responsible for ensuring the safety and soundness of the national payment system, which is the backbone of South Africa’s modern ﬁnancial system.

Statistics: The SARB provides important economic and ﬁnancial statistics that present an overview of the economic situation in South Africa.

Research: Research conducted by the SARB focuses on economics, ﬁnancial stability, banking and emerging trends in ﬁnance. SARB research supports policy decision-making.

Banknotes and Coin: The SARB has the sole right to make, issue and destroy banknotes and coin in South Africa.

HOW TO APPLY

CLICK THIS LINK TO APPLY

ESKOM Learner Intern Graduate Engineering Opportunity

April 11, 2026 by Blessing Khumalo

Introduction

Successful Applicants will be required to sign a 2 (two) year Internship Contract and will be paid a stipend according to Company Policies and Procedures. Position: Re Advert Learner Intern Grad Engineering – Engineering Design x2 Position/Task Grade: IO1 Department: Powerlines Business Unit: Construction Services

Location: Various Sites

Job description

Skills:

Computer Skills in MS Word, Excel
Good leadership Skills
Problem Solving/Conflict

Attributes:

Sound Communication
Able to work under pressure
Honest and Reliable
Adaptability to change
Own initiative/forward thinker

Documents to be submitted:

Detailed Curriculum Vitae,
Proof of qualifications and ID Copy (Certified)

Responsibilities

Continuous Improvement
Ensure that your duties are executed according to your training program
Safety
Engineering Design
Ensure that your Comply with Section 14 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and your duties as an employee are properly discharged.

Minimum requirements

Grade 12 and BSc – Bachelor of Electrical Engineering

About ESKOM

Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd is South Africa’s state-owned primary electricity utility, established in 1923, which generates, transmits, and distributes over 80% of the country’s electricity. It operates coal, nuclear, hydro, pumped storage, and renewable power stations, and is currently navigating a “Just Energy Transition” towards cleaner energy while addressing severe supply shortages.

HOW TO APPLY

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

x8 PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnership Opportunities (Packaging)

April 11, 2026 by Blessing Khumalo

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Job Description

Overview

Assist with trial protocols and issue to key stakeholders post alignment with R&D Technologist / R&D Manager
Assist with organizing and execute assigned research and development projects for SA R&D team. (Calendar Delivery) covering work streams ranging from very limited partial autonomous ownership through to transactional and hoc delivery.
Support the R&D Technologist across the relevant product platform to deliver low complexity projects. Specifically focused on execution of prototype to support around pilot plant trials.
Support the R&D technologist to execute production trials for low complexity projects and report trial results to R&D Manager utilizing the TSG methodology:
- Define and align trial protocols which is pre-aligned with the R&D technologist.
- Communicate trial request with relevant stakeholders and support the setup of pre-trial meetings.
- Attend pilot plant and factory trials as and when needed by the R&D technologist.

Responsibilities for the PepsiCo R&D WIL Learnership Opportunities (Packaging)

Responsible for routine analytical and product quality tests.

Lead base product collection from the production lines for development at pilot plant level
Collaborate with product developers
Supporteffective work in the pilot plant keeping GMP andgeneral good hygiene practices in place.
Support R&D Tech/ New EHS representative on EHS initiatives (both local and onsite requirements- a few of which areadhoc)
Online training to enhance business knowledge
Conduct seasoning applications, ensuring in specification salt results are attained
Conduct following Laboratory tests:
- Salt Analysis
- Oil Analysis
- Bulk Density Analysis
- Particle Size Analysis
- Moisture Analysis

Other project support areas

Compile project timelines and communicate to relevant teams to ensure required equipment and resources are available for use
Execute scale-up activities within PepsiCo owned Production Plants and pre-selected Co-manufacturers by working closely with Project lead
Deliver concise,accurateand complete reporting on projects to Line Manager and Project Teams, with guidance on recommendations for ingredient, formulae and process conditions
Draft R&D technical data such as artwork specifications, processspecificationsand finished pack standards with approval from Project Manager
Work with Regulatory to ensure legal compliance

Qualifications

Minimum Qualification:

Successfully completed the Theoretical part of their studies in scientific field with > 60% Average and in there last year of studies. (Biochemistry, Food Technology or Engineering)
South African citizen
Good technical and analytical skills, basic knowledge of statistics, ability to interpret data and distil into useful and actionable information
Supportive team player with an accurate, methodical, tidy and reliable approach
Excellent people skills
Results driven, demonstrate an ability to persevere and provide timely and direct feedback to others
High degree of self-motivation combined with good organisational and interpersonal skills
Eager to learn and use initiative, self-starter
Ability to work independently and to deal with change and increasing complexity
Integrity, Safeguard the Company’s designs, formulations, processes and reputation in all matters
Driving License will be an advantage.

Preferred Qualification:

Ability to collaborate and communicate well within the R&D team and when needed with selected multiple business functions including SC/OPS, Commercialization and external partners (eg. CFAM, Clextral , Schaaf)
Effective negotiation skills to ensure equitable use of shared resources.
Have an up to date knowledge of technology and be able to absorb and apply this knowledge
Creative thinking, be able to generate creative, workable ideas within the scope of projects.
Results driven, demonstrate an ability to persevere.
Ability to be able to work independently and to deal with change and increasing complexity.
Self starter, self-motivating.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a leading global food and beverage corporation, formed in 1965 through the merger of Pepsi-Cola and Frito-Lay. Headquartered in Purchase, New York, it offers a vast portfolio including 23+ iconic brands (e.g., Pepsi, Lay’s, Doritos, Gatorade, Quaker) that generate over $1 billion each in annual sales.

HOW TO APPLY

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

See other Pepsico learnerships here and apply

Get Connected!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/careerssouthafrica/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/careers-south-africa-za/

WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JVphaaPQEOU9VBlpVJAtIi?mode=gi_t

WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb7gAx5J3jupoQfCwt2n

Motus is Hiring An Apprentice Level 1 To Work on Kia

April 10, 2026 by Blessing Khumalo

Job Description

Job Summary:

Motus is seeking a motivated individual to join its team as an Apprentice Level 1. The ideal candidate will work under the supervision of experienced professionals and participate in on-the-job training in their chosen field. This role will provide hands-on experience and the opportunity to develop valuable skills and knowledge in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Responsibilities: Motus Apprentice Level 1

– Assist in completing tasks and projects as assigned by supervisors
– Participate in training sessions and courses to enhance skills and knowledge
– Follow safety protocols and guidelines at all times
– Maintain a positive attitude and eagerness to learn
– Work collaboratively with team members and communicate effectively
– Take initiative and demonstrate a strong work ethic

Qualifications:

-Pure and Technical Maths
-Physical Sciences
– High school diploma or equivalent
– Basic understanding of the chosen field or industry
– Ability to follow instructions and work well in a team setting
– Strong communication and interpersonal skills
– Willingness to learn and grow in the role
– Punctual and reliable
– Basic computer skills

About Motus South Africa

Motus South Africa is the country’s largest non-manufacturing automotive group, with over 70 years of experience. It is a dominant player in importing, distribution, retail, and aftermarket parts, handling roughly one in five new passenger vehicles sold in South Africa. Motus represents numerous manufacturers, including Mitsubishi, Renault, Kia, and Hyundai.

Apply for the Motus Motus Apprentice Level 1 opportunity.

HOW TO APPLY

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Scatec Graduate Programme 2027/28 For Young South Africans

April 10, 2026 by Blessing Khumalo

Location: Cape Town

Overview

Want to join a frontrunner in renewable energy that is actively seeking early entry into new markets globally? Since the establishment in 2007, Scatec has acquired extensive knowledge and experience in developing, building and operating solar, wind and hydro power plants and storage solutions. Driven by its company values and competent global workforce, the company aims to deliver competitive and sustainable renewable energy globally; protect its environment and improve quality of life through innovative integration of technology; and create shareholder value. The company is present on four continents and are headquartered in Oslo, Norway.

Why you?

Are you passionate about shaping a brighter future? Do you thrive in a dynamic, international environment? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you!

About Scatec Graduate Programme 2027/28

The Scatec Graduate Programme is a corporate initiative that ensures that all graduates in the different areas of our business adapt to a high level of unvarying standards in terms of orientation, training, development and exposure to the business processes.

The programme offers graduates an intensive 24-month long development experience, making it one of the most sought-after graduateprogrammes.

What does the programme entail?

Twenty-four (24) month programme, based in Cape Town
Progress reviews bi-annually
Frequent and standardised assessments focused on competency
Fit-for-purpose training
Continuous buddy and mentorship that support the programme

What are the minimum requirements:

A relevant, completed University qualification (see fields of study)
A strong academic record, with a minimum cumulative average of 65%
Transcripts and Certified Academic qualifications
Must have less than 24 months’ working experience
Clear criminal record
South African citizen

Qualification / Fields of study:

Engineering Undergraduate/Postgraduate (Electrical and Mechatronic)
Human Resource Management/Industrial Psychology
Finance/Accounting
Communication/Marketing
Environmental Studies
Business Development
Legal/Compliance
Supply Chain/Procurement and Logistics/Quantity Surveying
Information Technology/Information Systems/Data Analytics/Artifical Intelligence

How to apply?

Ensure that you meet all the minimum requirements
If you think you are part of our next talent development pool, please apply and load your application on our website Scatec.com

Selection process:

Applications should be submitted to Scatec by no later than the specified closing date and should be submitted online only
Applicants who do not have internet access or access to an internet café in their area, may contact our Graduate Application Helpline at recruitment@scatec.com for support
Only selected individuals will be invited to interviews that will be held in our Cape Town offices.
Psychometric assessments will form part of the selection process
Verification will be done on all qualifications as well as security checks
All candidates who apply will receive communication on their application status by the end of October 2026.

Closing date for applications: 31 May 2026

HOW TO APPLY

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

EDF South Africa is Hiring A Renewable Energy Graduate

April 10, 2026 by Blessing Khumalo

About EDF power solutions (Pty) Ltd

EDF power solutions (Pty) Ltd is an international energy player active in more than 25 countries, developing, investing in, building, and operating renewable and low‑carbon energy generation and transmission solutions. The company delivers a broad suite of technologies including wind, solar, hydro, biomass, battery energy storage, flexible power systems, and low‑carbon mobility solutions.

In South Africa, EDF power solutions (Pty) Ltd has been operating since 2009 with offices in Cape Town, Gqeberha, and Johannesburg, and is undergoing rapid growth. The business currently manages four operational wind farms totalling 142 MW and is constructing 1.5 GW of wind, solar and BESS projects across 11 sites. It also leads major hydropower developments in Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique, with ambitions to deliver 5 GW of renewable projects in the region by 2030.

About the Role

The Renewable Energy Graduate will support engineering activities within the Engineering Centre of Excellence (ECoE), contributing to project development, energy yield assessments, energy modelling, and early‑stage design across wind, solar and BESS projects.

Working under the guidance of experienced engineers and supported by a global network of experts, this role offers hands‑on exposure to large‑scale renewable energy projects across Southern Africa. It is an excellent opportunity for a motivated graduate looking to build technical capability while gaining insight into the full renewable energy project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

Project Development Support

Support development teams with environmental approvals, project appeals, site selection and project sizing.
Participate in site visits and field activities.
Consolidate GIS and project-related data.
Support transversal and cross‑functional project tasks as required.

Energy Yield Assessment

Support technical assessment and interpretation of wind and solar resource data.
Assist with prospecting activities for potential renewable energy sites.
Support wind and solar data monitoring campaigns.

Design & Feasibility

Assist with preliminary layout designs of renewable energy facilities.
Contribute to feasibility assessments and technical risk analyses.

Data Analysis & Modelling

Support data management, tracking, and analysis.
Assist with BESS and energy modelling activities.
Prepare presentations and summaries of modelling outputs.

Administration & Bid Support

Provide administrative support related to bid preparation and contract documentation.
Assist with ad‑hoc technical and analytical tasks as required.

Qualifications & Experience

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Engineering, or related degree.
0–1 year professional experience (graduates encouraged).
Valid driver’s license.
Willingness to travel as required.

Competencies

Technical

Strong learning ability and interest in renewable energy engineering.
Coding, CAD design, data analysis, and advanced Excel skills are advantageous.
Proficiency in MS365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams).

Behavioural

Strong problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills.
Proactive, self‑motivated and willing to take ownership of tasks.
Able to work both independently and collaboratively.
Clear written and verbal communication skills.

Why Join EDF

Join a purpose‑driven organisation at the forefront of renewable energy in Southern Africa. As a Renewable Energy Graduate, you will gain exposure to cutting‑edge wind, solar and BESS projects, receive mentorship from experienced engineers, and develop practical skills within a globally connected Centre of Excellence.

HOW TO APPLY

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Get Connected!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/careerssouthafrica/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/careers-south-africa-za/

WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JVphaaPQEOU9VBlpVJAtIi?mode=gi_t

WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb7gAx5J3jupoQfCwt2n

x2 Tradesman Aids Required At Gauteng Province Department of Roads and Transport

April 9, 2026 by Blessing Khumalo

Tradesman Aids

Reference Number : refs/042678
Directorate : Roads Maintenance: Maintenance Technical Auxiliary Services
Number of Posts : 2

Package : R 163 680.00 per annum (plus benefits) level 3
Enquiries : Ms. M. Mashele (011) 355 7082 / Mr. S. Ngcobo (011) 355 7498/ Ms. M. Ratsheku (011) 355 9026

Requirements :

NQF Level 2 (Grade 10 certificate or equivalent). 6 months of trade related experience.

Duties :

Cleaning tools and parts before and after use. Ensuring that the workshop is always kept clean and that warning signs are placed in the correct locations. Assisting with in-house stock-taking services, as well as loading and offloading of stock. Providing support with stock verification process.

Notes :

In line with the Department’s employments Equity Plan, COLOURED FEMALES, INDIAN FEMALES, WHITE FEMAELS are encouraged to apply. To apply for the below positions, please apply online at http://jobs.gauteng.gov.za. For general enquiries please contact Human Resource on 011 355-7082/7043.Only online applications will be considered. Applicants must utilise the most recent Z83 application form for employment, issued by the Minister for the Public Service and Administration in line with Regulation 10 of the Public Service Regulations, 2016. All fields in the New Z83 form must be completed, initialled and signed. Furthermore, a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) must also be attached. Failure to attach the completed Z83 and Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) will result in disqualification. The New Z83 form is obtainable from any Public Service Department or the DPSA website www.dpsa.gov.za/documents. Only shortlisted candidates who meet all the requirements of the post will be requested to submit certified copies of qualifications, identity document and valid driver’s license (where driving/travelling is an inherent requirement of the job) not older than six (06) months. All shortlisted candidates, including the SMS, shall undertake two pre-entry assessments. One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment. It is our intention to promote representation (race, gender and disability) in the Public Service through the filling of posts and candidates whose transfer/promotion/appointment will promote representation will receive preference. It is the Department’s intention to promote equity through the filling of all numeric targets as contained in the Employment Equity Plan. To facilitate this process successfully, an indication of race, gender and disability status is required. It is the applicant’s responsibility to have foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). The Department reserves the right not to appoint. If you do not receive any response from the department within 3 months, please accept your application was unsuccessful

Employer : Department of Roads and Transport

Location : Koedoespoort (Pretoria)

Closing Date : 10-04-2026

Criteria Questions
Do you have NQF Level 2 (Grade 10 certificate or equivalent)?
Do you have 6 months of trade related experience?

Please Notes :

Due to the large number of applications to be received, applications will not be acknowledged. If you do not receive any response within 3 months, please accept that your application was not successful.

About Gauteng Province

Gauteng is South Africa’s smallest but most populous and economically powerful province, acting as the nation’s industrial, commercial, and financial hub. Covering Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Ekurhuleni, it produces roughly 40% of the national GDP and features major urban areas, historical sites, and the Cradle of Humankind.

HOW TO APPLY

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

How do I Find and Apply for a Learnership in South Africa

April 9, 2026 by Blessing Khumalo

Hey, young hustler from the townships or the suburbs – if you’re a South African youth staring down unemployment and dreaming of that first real break, learnerships are your golden ticket. I’ve walked this road with cousins, neighbours, and mentees who’ve turned “no experience” into steady paychecks and qualifications that bosses can’t ignore. Let’s break it down real talk, step by step, so you can grab yours today.

What Learnerships Really Are

Picture this: you get paid a stipend – often R3,000 to R5,000 a month – to learn a trade or skill on the job, while studying part-time for a nationally recognised NQF qualification. It’s not some handout; it’s work-integrated learning registered with a SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority), blending classroom theory with real workplace grind. I remember my cousin Thabo from Soweto – fresh out of matric with no prospects – he joined an engineering learnership through MERSETA in 2022. A year later, he was a qualified artisan pulling R15k monthly. These programmes target youths (18-35 usually), unemployed South Africans, because government and companies know skills shortages are killing the economy.

No more CVs going into black holes. Learnerships bridge that gap, and with youth unemployment hovering over 40%, they’re popping up everywhere from banks to farms.

Step 1: Hunt Smart for Openings

Don’t just Google “learnerships” and pray – that’s for amateurs. Start with the heavy hitters:

SETA websites: There are 21 SETAs covering everything from AgriSETA (farming gigs) to BANKSETA (finance hustles) and INSETA (insurance). Check individual SETA sites like mereseta.org.za for 2026 intakes – some of them are currently opening now with hundreds of spots.
Job portals: PNet, Indeed, Careers24, and Careers South Africa (https://www.careerssouthafrica.co.za/) list fresh ones daily. Filter for “learnership” in your province – Gauteng and KZN have the most.
Company career pages: Big players like ESKOM, OUTsurance, Sanlam, Samancor Chrome, and Shoprite post their own. Sanlam’s insurance learnership? Matric, 18-35, unemployed – that’s it, stipend included.
Government spots: Labour centres via dpsa.gov.za or esa.gov.za, plus NYDA (nyda.gov.za) for rural youth programmes.

Pro tip from the trenches: Join WhatsApp groups like “SA Learnerships 2026” (search Telegram too), follow Careers South Africa on Facebook, and set alerts. My mentee Amahle from KZN snagged an Artisan learnership in early 2026 by spotting it on Careers South Africa first thing Monday morning – applications closed in days.

Step 2: Check If You’re Eligible

Most learnerships want:

SA citizen, 18-35, unemployed.
Matric (or Grade 10/11/12 for entry-level trades).
No prior same qualification (they check SAQA IDs).

Extras? Pure Maths/Science for engineering, or English fluency for call centres. Thabo failed his first application because he missed the “no previous N2” rule – double-check the advert. Rural? Some like INSETA prioritise townships. Got a disability? Many are reserved – declare it proudly.

Step 3: Nail Your Application

This is where most youths flop – sloppy PDFs and ghosted emails. Do it right:

Tailor everything: One-page CV (contact, matric results, ID copy, motivational letter saying why this learnership, not “any job”). No typos – use Grammarly.
Motivation letter magic: “For example you can say: I’m from Alexandra, saw how plumbers earn while fixing leaks in my street. This water reticulation learnership with Rand Water will let me build my community.” Real passion wins.
Submit clean: Online portals? Save as PDF, name it “YourName_Learnership_Programme.pdf”. Email? Subject: “Sipho Nkosi – OUTsurance OSS Learnership 2026”. Attach certified ID, matric cert (not older than 3 months).
Follow up: Call the HR number a week later. “Hi, just confirming receipt of my application for the NECSA Management Learnership.” You will be shocked the HR Manager might check your application right away and this can set you apart from others. Try it!

Lerato’s story? He emailed a bank learnership, followed up, aced the interview with township lingo mixed with matric marks – employed 14 days later.

Common Traps to Dodge

Deadlines: They close fast – March 2026 had 300+ nationwide, but spots filled in weeks.
Scams: NEVER pay application fees. Legit ones are free.
Interviews: Practice STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories. Dress smart-casual, arrive early.
Multiple apps: You’re allowed, but track them in a spreadsheet.

I coached a group of 10 from Gauteng Province last year (yeah, cross-border vibes), and 7 landed spots – persistence pays.

Your Edge as SA Youth

Stay encouraged: Every rejected application is practice. Ready to level up? Follow Careers South Africa at https://www.careerssouthafrica.co.za/ – your ultimate plug for learnerships, bursaries, internships, and youth gigs across SA. They’ve got the freshest listings, application tips, and success stories tailored for you. Hit follow, apply today, and let’s turn that hustle into history. You’ve got this, fam!

Get Connected!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/careerssouthafrica/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/careers-south-africa-za/

WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JVphaaPQEOU9VBlpVJAtIi?mode=gi_t

WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb7gAx5J3jupoQfCwt2n

SGS South Africa Administration YES Program

April 9, 2026 by Blessing Khumalo

Location: Samcor Park, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa

Company Description

SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 97,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.

Job Description: SGS South Africa Administration YES Program

Main Purpose of the Job: To participate in a 12-month experiential learning program in reporting and administration.

Skills

Exceptional MS Excel
Pay strict attention to detail
Ability to interact and communicate effectively both orally and in written correspondence/ reports;
Ability to maintain confidentiality;
Ability to assimilate and summarize information;
Ability to analyse information and conclude;
Technical competency in Microsoft Office Suite (WORD, EXCEL);
Ability to create, format and develop analytical spreadsheets;
Ability to research and use AI tools and programs
Demonstrates personal accountability and urgency in completing assignments and achieving results.

Qualifications

Grade 12 / Matric
National Diploma or degree in Human Resources or Business Administration
Qualification / course in Data Analytics

Additional Information

Be a South African citizen (be able to produce a valid South African ID document)
Be between the ages of 18-33
Must be currently unemployed and have not yet been on a YES Program before.
Must have no criminal record
Must be willing to relocate to Pretoria

Exceptional Computer Literacy (use of MS Office suite – Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
An affinity for data analysis
Strong research skills
High attention to detail, accuracy, and efficiency in completing tasks.
Exceptional organizational skills
Self-motivated and high level of initiative

HOW TO APPLY

CLICK HERE TO APPLY