If you’re a South African youth who’s not working, a recent graduate, or a TVET student, you should take a look at what’s happening in January 2026. A handful of big companies are closing their learnerships this month, and each one gives you real work experience, a paid stipend, and a recognised certificate that can help you land a job in mining, manufacturing, finance, logistics, or engineering. Here are six programmes you need to consider before the deadline hits.
1. Northam Platinum – Booysendal Platinum Mine Boilermaker Learnership 2026
What it is – Northam Platinum is looking for young people who want to learn how to build and maintain big machines used in mining. The learnership is called a Boilermaker Learnership.
- Apply by: 21 January 2026
- Where: Booysendal Area, Limpopo & Mpumalanga
Why it matters – You’ll learn a trade that is in high demand in the mining sector, get hands‑on experience, and finish with a certificate that can lead to a good salary.
👉 Apply now for the Northam Boilermaker learnership
2. Unilever – Automated Packaging Learnership 2026
What it is – Unilever’s factory in Durban wants people who are curious about how automated machines pack food and drinks. You’ll learn how to work in a production line that uses robots and smart systems.
- Apply by: 21 January 2026
- Where: Maydon Wharf Factory, Durban, KwaZulu‑Natal
Why it matters – You’ll get a solid background in manufacturing and automation, plus a stipend while you learn.
👉 Apply now for the Unilever Automated Packaging learnership
3. Absa Group – Face‑to‑Face Financial Adviser Learnership 2026
What it is – Absa is a big bank that wants to train young people to become financial advisers who talk to customers in person.
- Apply by: 21 January 2026
- Where: Cape Town, Western Cape
Why it matters – If you’re interested in banking or helping people manage money, this programme gives you a real job in the field and a qualification that shows you’re ready for the job market.
👉 Apply now for the Absa Face‑to‑Face Financial Adviser learnership
4. Transnet – Work Integrated Learnership 2026
What it is – Transnet offers a programme where you’ll spend a year working on technical projects in a real workplace. It’s a great way to learn practical skills while you study.
- Apply by: 21 January 2026
- Where: Richards Bay, KwaZulu‑Natal
Why it matters – You’ll receive a paid internship and a qualification that can open doors to engineering or logistics jobs.
👉 Apply now for the Transnet Work Integrated Learnership
5. Eskom – NTCSA Learnerships & Graduate Internships 2026
What it is – Eskom’s National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) is opening 174 spots across the country. They’re looking for people who want to work in electricity transmission and related technical fields.
- Apply by: 21 January 2026
- Where: Gauteng, KwaZulu‑Natal, Limpopo, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Free State & Bloemfontein
Why it matters – With a paid role and a recognised qualification, you’ll be ready for a career in one of the most stable industries in South Africa.
👉 Apply now for Eskom NTCSA learnerships and internships
6. Volkswagen Group South Africa – TVET Learnerships 2026
What it is – Volkswagen is inviting TVET students to join an 18‑month programme that helps you finish your National N Diploma while you work in a real car factory.
- Apply by: 23 January 2026
- Where: Kariega, Eastern Cape
- When: 1 March 2026 – 31 August 2027
Why it matters – You’ll get hands‑on experience in a global company, a monthly allowance, and a diploma that can lead to jobs in the automotive industry.
👉 Apply now for the Volkswagen Group SA TVET learnership
Why you should apply right away
- You’ll earn a real qualification that many employers recognize.
- You’ll get a monthly stipend or allowance while you learn, so you can support yourself.
- You’ll work in a real company and get the experience that makes future employers happy.
- You’ll have a clear path into fields like mining, engineering, finance, manufacturing, and logistics.
Most of these programmes close on 21 January 2026. If you wait, you might miss a chance that could change your life. Take a few minutes to check the links above, fill out the application, and start building a future that feels solid and exciting.