The search for sustainable youth employment solutions in South Africa reaches a new milestone as the TBSSA Learnership 2026 opens for applications. Technical Business Skills South Africa (TBSSA) has officially invited unemployed youth to participate in a structured 12-month programme designed to bridge the gap between classroom theory and workplace reality.
With a competitive monthly stipend of R4,600 and accessible entry requirements starting from Grade 11, this initiative serves as a critical entry point for young South Africans looking to build a professional foundation in the digital and administrative economy.
What is the TBSSA Learnership Programme?
The TBSSA Learnership is a skills development initiative focused on empowering the “missing middle” of the workforce—individuals who have the potential to excel but lack formal work experience or high-level qualifications. Managed by Technical Business Skills South Africa, the programme is specifically aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) to ensure that the time spent learning translates into a recognized credential.
Unlike traditional internships that may require a University degree, the TBSSA model prioritizes practical competence. The 2026 intake focuses on several core business sectors:
- Business Administration: Mastering office protocols and organizational flow.
- Customer Relationship Management: Developing soft skills for client-facing roles.
- Technical Support Services: Basic troubleshooting and digital literacy.
- Operational Assistance: Learning the logistics of day-to-day business management.
Financial Support: The R4,600 Monthly Stipend
One of the most significant barriers to youth employment in South Africa is the “cost of looking for work.” TBSSA addresses this by providing a consistent R4,600 monthly stipend.
This financial support is not a salary in the traditional sense, but a living allowance intended to cover:
- Transport Costs: Reliable commuting to training centers and host employers.
- Daily Sustenance: Meals and personal requirements during working hours.
- Data and Communication: Ensuring learners stay connected to digital learning platforms.
By removing the financial burden of participation, TBSSA ensures that learners from diverse socio-economic backgrounds can remain committed to the full 12-month duration of the programme.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To maintain high E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) standards, the recruitment process follows a strict but inclusive set of criteria. The TBSSA Learnership 2026 opens doors for those who might be excluded from other high-level corporate programmes.
1. Educational Background
- Minimum Requirement: Grade 11 Certificate.
- Advantageous: A National Senior Certificate (Matric) is preferred but not mandatory.
- Skills: Basic proficiency in English (read, write, and speak) and foundational numeracy.
2. Legal and Demographic Requirements
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen with a valid Green Barcoded ID or Smart ID.
- Age Profile: Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Employment Status: Currently unemployed and not enrolled in any other full-time study or learnership.
3. Personal Attributes
The selection committee looks for candidates who demonstrate a “growth mindset.” Since the programme involves both theoretical study and practical work, a high level of discipline and a willingness to follow a professional code of conduct are essential.
Step-by-Step Application Guide for 2026
The application process is exclusively online. Follow these steps to ensure your profile is considered:
- Prepare Your Digital Folder: Scan your ID, your latest school results (Grade 11 or 12), and an updated CV in PDF format.
- Access the Portal: Navigate to the official TBSSA application website.
- Complete the Digital Form: Ensure your contact details (phone number and email) are active and checked daily.
- Verification: Double-check that your uploaded documents are clear and legible. Blurry photos of documents are a leading cause of application rejection.
- Submission: Click submit and save your reference number or confirmation email.
Expert Tip: While the programme states “No Closing Date,” TBSSA operates on a rolling recruitment model. This means that as soon as a cohort is full, applications for that cycle close. Applying early is the single best strategy for securing a spot.
Why This Learnership Matters for Your Career
Participating in a TBSSA learnership provides more than just a monthly stipend; it offers a path to long-term employability.
NQF Level Qualification
Upon successful completion, learners often receive an NQF Level 4 qualification. This is a powerful addition to a CV, signaling to future employers that the candidate has met national standards for business competence.
Mentorship and Networking
Learners are placed under the guidance of experienced supervisors. This mentorship provides “unwritten” workplace knowledge, such as how to handle conflict, time management, and professional networking—skills that cannot be learned from a textbook alone.
Workplace Readiness
South African employers frequently cite a lack of “work readiness” in entry-level hires. TBSSA graduates enter the job market with 12 months of documented experience, making them significantly more attractive to hiring managers in the private sector.
Structure of the 12-Month Programme
The learnership is divided into two primary components:
| Component | Focus | Duration |
| Theoretical Training | Classroom-based learning, assignments, and assessments. | Approx. 30% of the year |
| Practical Placement | On-the-job training within a real business environment. | Approx. 70% of the year |
This 70/30 split ensures that by the time the 2026 cycle concludes, the learner is fully capable of executing business tasks independently.
Summary of Key Information
- Focus Keyphrase: TBSSA Learnership 2026 Opens
- Stipend: R4,600 per month
- Minimum Education: Grade 11
- Duration: 12 Months
- Location: Various regions across South Africa
- Closing Date: Ongoing (Early application recommended)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if I don’t have a Matric certificate?
You can still apply. The TBSSA Learnership 2026 accepts a Grade 11 certificate as the minimum entry requirement, making it one of the most inclusive programmes in the country.
Is the R4,600 stipend taxed?
In most cases, learnership stipends fall below the personal income tax threshold in South Africa. However, small deductions for the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) may apply to protect the learner.
Will I be hired permanently after 12 months?
While TBSSA and host employers are not legally obligated to offer permanent roles, many learners are absorbed into full-time positions based on their performance during the programme.
How will I know if my application was successful?
Shortlisted candidates are typically contacted via SMS or email within 4 to 6 weeks of submission for an interview or aptitude test.
Can I apply if I have a criminal record?
Most learnerships require a clean criminal record, especially those involving administration or customer service. TBSSA may conduct background checks during the vetting process.
The TBSSA Learnership 2026 represents a vital opportunity for South African youth to move from unemployment into a structured career path. By combining a livable stipend with high-quality vocational training, TBSSA is actively contributing to the country’s economic growth. If you meet the criteria, do not delay—submit your application today to secure your future.
