IT Learnerships in South Africa 2026

IT learnerships in South Africa offer an accredited pathway into the information and communications technology industry, combining theoretical study with on-the-job training. Registered under the MICT SETA, these programmes typically run for 12 months and cover disciplines ranging from technical support to software development. Successful graduates earn a nationally recognised NQF qualification and gain the practical experience needed to launch an ICT career.

What Are Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Learnerships?

An IT learnership is a structured workplace-based learning programme that blends theory delivered by an accredited training provider with supervised practical experience at an employer. Programmes are registered with the MICT SETA (Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority) and result in a qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework. Participants study topics such as computer hardware and networking fundamentals, operating systems, cybersecurity basics, software development principles, and end-user support. The learnership is governed by a tripartite agreement between the learner, the employer, and the training provider, ensuring that both academic and workplace outcomes are met. Beyond technical skills, IT learnerships develop problem-solving, communication, and project management competencies that employers in the digital economy increasingly value. Many learners go on to higher NQF levels or pursue internationally recognised certifications such as CompTIA A+, Microsoft Azure, or Cisco CCNA after completing their learnership.

Qualification Details

• NQF level: NQF Level 3-5
• Example qualifications: National Certificate: IT: End User Computing (NQF Level 3), National Certificate: Information Technology: Systems Development (NQF Level 4), National Certificate: Information Technology: Systems Support (NQF Level 4), National Certificate: Information Technology: Network Support (NQF Level 4), Further Education and Training Certificate: IT: Systems Development (NQF Level 4), National Diploma: Information Technology (NQF Level 5)
• Duration: 12 months
• Stipend range: R4,000 - R8,000 per month

Who Can Apply?

• South African citizen or permanent resident with a valid ID
• Matric certificate (Grade 12) or equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification
• Basic computer literacy and a genuine interest in technology
• Unemployed at the time of application (for SETA-funded positions)
• Age 18-35 for most SETA-funded programmes (some employers extend to 40)
• No prior formal IT qualification at the same NQF level

Top Companies Offering Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Learnerships

• EOH Holdings
• BCX (Business Connexion)
• Vodacom South Africa
• MTN South Africa
• Dimension Data (NTT)
• Accenture South Africa
• IBM South Africa
• Telkom SA

Where to Find and Apply

• https://www.mict.org.za - MICT SETA official learnership portal
• https://www.learnerships.co.za - National learnership aggregator
• https://www.harambee.co.za - Youth employment platform
• https://www.careers24.com - Job and learnership listings
• https://www.pnet.co.za - Professional network and job board
• Company career portals: eoh.co.za, bcx.co.za, vodacom.co.za, mtn.co.za

How to Apply — Step by Step

1. Visit the MICT SETA website at mict.org.za and navigate to the Learnerships section to see currently open programmes and accredited training providers.
2. Register a free profile on Harambee (harambee.co.za) and learnerships.co.za to receive alerts when new IT learnership opportunities are posted.
3. Prepare your application pack: certified copy of ID, certified matric certificate, updated CV, and proof of residence not older than three months.
4. Submit applications directly through the hosting company career portal or through the MICT SETA application form, ensuring all supporting documents are attached.
5. Complete any online assessments or aptitude tests that the employer or training provider may require as part of the screening process.
6. If shortlisted, attend an interview or information session. Bring original documents for verification and ask about the start date, stipend, and training schedule.

Documents You Will Need

• Certified copy of South African ID or Smart Card (not older than three months)
• Certified copy of matric certificate or highest qualification
• Updated curriculum vitae (CV) with contactable references
• Proof of residence (utility bill or affidavit not older than three months)
• SARS tax number or letter (if available)
• Bank account confirmation letter or statement
• Disability certificate from a registered practitioner (if applicable, for equity purposes)

Career Prospects After Completing a Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Learnership

IT learnership graduates are well-positioned to enter roles such as IT support technician, helpdesk analyst, junior network administrator, or entry-level software developer. With experience, these positions progress to mid-level roles like systems analyst, network engineer, cloud solutions specialist, or DevOps engineer - many of which command salaries well above R400,000 per annum. The South African ICT sector continues to grow driven by digital transformation, fintech expansion, and government e-services initiatives. Learners who combine their NQF qualification with vendor certifications (Microsoft, AWS, Cisco, or CompTIA) and build a portfolio of practical work significantly improve their employability. Further study pathways include a National Diploma or Bachelor of Technology in IT at a TVET college or university of technology.