YES Learnership Training 2026 – Applications Now Open Until 1 January 2026
South African youth seeking real workplace experience in 2026 now have the opportunity to apply for the YES Learnership Training Programme, officially running for a full 12-month period starting February 2026. This learnership aims to empower young people with practical office and administrative skills while supporting their transition into long-term employment.
Applications Open for 2026 SSETA YES Learnership Programme – Closing 1 January 2026
This programme aligns with the national Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, designed to reduce unemployment by offering on-the-job training, mentorship, and structured learning to previously unemployed young people across the country.
Programme Overview
The SSETA YES Learnership Training 2026 offers a 12-month full-time learning and working experience at one of two locations: Stellenbosch or Kraaifontein. Selected candidates will perform a range of office-based duties while completing learning modules assigned throughout the training period.
Participants must commit to the entire 12-month duration, as full completion is required to obtain the final YES training certificate. This programme provides a pathway to gain practical workplace exposure, soft skills development, and employability enhancement.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Learners will be placed in an office environment where they will support day-to-day administrative and operational tasks. While duties may differ depending on placement, responsibilities generally include:
- Supporting office operations and administrative functions
- Completing learning modules assigned by the facilitator or supervisor
- Assisting with filing, document control, and record-keeping
- Participating in scheduled training and development sessions
- Contributing to teamwork, operational efficiency, and customer support processes
- Maintaining professionalism, punctuality, and workplace discipline
Specific duties will be fully communicated to successful candidates during orientation and onboarding.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the 2026 YES Learnership, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Be a South African citizen
- Never previously participated in a YES learnership programme
- Must have completed Matric/Grade 12
- Must attach CV, South African ID, and Matric certificate/results
- Must be willing to work in Stellenbosch or the Kraaifontein warehouse
- Must be computer literate
Applicants who fail to upload all documents or do not meet the requirements will not be considered.
Core Competencies Needed
The programme seeks candidates who can demonstrate:
- Strong interpersonal skills
- High energy and enthusiasm
- Commitment to learning and workplace excellence
- Resilience and the ability to handle pressure
- Problem-solving skills and a proactive approach
These competencies enable learners to perform effectively in a structured environment while contributing meaningfully to operational activities.
Location of the Learnership
The 2026 YES programme will be hosted in:
- Stellenbosch (administrative office environment) You can relocate
- Kraaifontein (warehouse office support environment) You can relocate
Candidates must be willing to travel to and work at either location depending on placement availability.
Application Deadline
Applications close on:
1 January 2026
Late applications, incomplete submissions, or missing documents will result in automatic disqualification. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid system delays and ensure their submissions are processed correctly.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit their details and required documents through the official application portal:
Ensure your CV, ID copy, and matric results are uploaded clearly and in the correct format.
Why the YES Learnership Matters
The national YES initiative plays a critical role in addressing high unemployment among young people in South Africa. By offering real workplace experience, this learnership:
- Improves employability
- Provides an employment reference
- Strengthens digital and office-related competencies
- Helps young people transition into permanent roles
- Supports economic inclusion and youth development
Learners who complete the full 12-month programme receive a YES certificate, which is recognized by employers nationwide.
Tips for a Strong Application
To increase your chances of success:
- Use a professional, updated CV
- Double-check your documents before uploading
- Ensure your contact number and email address are correct
- Apply early before the deadline
- Highlight any volunteer, school leadership, or short-course experience
- Demonstrate motivation and willingness to learn in your application responses
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the SSETA YES Learnership 2026?
South African citizens aged 18–35 who have never taken part in a YES programme and have completed Matric.
2. Do I need experience to apply?
No. The programme is targeted at unemployed youth with no or limited work experience.
3. Is this a paid learnership?
Most YES programmes include a stipend, but applicants should confirm specifics during the interview or selection stage.
4. Where will the training take place?
In Stellenbosch or at the Kraaifontein warehouse, depending on placement.
5. How long is the programme?
The learnership runs for 12 months, starting February 2026.
6. Can I apply if I did a YES learnership before?
No. Only first-time YES participants may apply.
7. What happens if my application is incomplete?
It will be disqualified and not considered.
8. What documents must I upload?
A CV, South African ID, and matric certificate or results.
9. When is the closing date?
1 January 2026.
