PWD learnerships are accredited training programmes designed for learners living with disabilities who want to enter the workforce with practical skills and qualifications.
Learnerships are nationally recognised and aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) so you earn a certificate recognised by employers when you complete the programme.
These learnerships involve classroom instruction, workplace exposure, mentorship, and assessment to ensure you gain real skills employers value.
Many employers, SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities), and training institutions offer PWD‑friendly learnerships to support inclusion and meet employment equity targets in South Africa.
No fees are charged to participate in a learnership, and successful learners receive a learner allowance or stipend to help cover travel and other basic expenses while training.
Who Can Apply for PWD Learnerships in 2026
To qualify for most PWD learnerships you must:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Have proof of your disability (such as a medical certificate detailing your condition).
- Be unemployed and ready to commit full‑time to the learnership.
- Meet the minimum education requirements for the specific learnership (this may vary by programme).
- Be aged between 18 and 35 years for most SETA and employer programmes.
Persons with physical, intellectual, sensory, or other recognised impairments are encouraged to apply if they have the required documentation.
Different programmes have different qualification criteria so always check the specific advert before submitting your application.
What Types of PWD Learnerships Are Available in 2026
In 2026 there are several types of PWD‑inclusive learnerships available:
- IT and Business Learnerships
The Khano Training Institute IT Learnerships for PWD are targeted IT and business analysis programmes that lead to qualifications such as Technical Support and Business Analysis Support.
These include classroom training and workplace exposure and offer monthly stipends up to R6 000 for learners meeting the criteria. - Retail and Customer Service Learnerships
Retail employers like Truworths have opened PWD‑friendly stores learnerships that give practical training in customer service, point‑of‑sale systems, visual merchandising, and stock control.
These are open to learners with disabilities who meet minimum education requirements. - Business Administration and Logistics Learnerships
Many companies offer learnerships such as Business Administration, Supply Chain, and Customer Service specifically designed for learners with disabilities.
These range from opportunities in distribution and warehouse training to office‑based customer service roles. - Other Opportunities
Additional programmes such as PWD‑friendly administration learnerships with major employers and skills development structures are sometimes available through inclusive training providers or SETA partners.
These include work in retail, operations, resume building, and workplace readiness.
What You Will Learn During a PWD Learnership
During a PWD learnership you will receive structured learning and practical experience that help you build relevant workplace skills.
Typical learnings include:
- Industry‑specific technical skills (such as IT support, retail operations, customer service, or business admin).
- Workplace readiness such as time management, communication, teamwork, and problem solving.
- Accredited training content aligned with relevant SETA standards so that your qualification is recognised.
- On‑site supervision and mentoring by experienced professionals to help you develop confidence and competence.
Many learners also gain experience with computer systems, workplace documentation, and real working environments which makes your CV stronger after completion.
How to Apply for PWD Learnerships in 2026
To apply for PWD learnerships follow these steps:
- Visit official training or employer websites such as SETA portals, careers pages, and known learnership listings.
- Read the full learnership advert and minimum requirements before applying.
- Prepare required documents including:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate or highest qualification.
- A medical certificate confirming your disability.
- Updated CV with your contact details.
- Complete the online application form on the official site or send your documents to the official application email if provided.
- Submit your application before the closing date and follow up using the contact details provided if you have questions.
Do not pay anyone to apply or submit documents outside official channels.
Always use verified SETA or employer portals to avoid scams.
What Happens After You Apply
After submitting your application you should receive a confirmation of receipt.
Shortlisted candidates are usually contacted for further assessment or interviews by the programme host.
Assessments may include basic skills tests, interviews or competency evaluations.
Successful learners are informed of their selection and given details about the start date, training venue, stipend, and reporting requirements.
Keep your phone and email active and check them regularly so you do not miss any important updates about your application.
Contact Information for PWD Learnership Support
For information, application forms, and support visit official platforms such as:
- Khano Training Institute (IT PWD Learnerships)
Email: applications@khanotraining.ac.za (as per advert)
Location: Hatfield, Pretoria (check official advert for details) - Retail and Company Portals (Truworths, other PWD learnerships)
Visit the official Truworths careers and SETA portals for application links and details about ongoing learnerships.
- Official SETA Learnership Listings
- Check national SETA portals such as the MICT SETA and FoodBev SETA for accredited PWD programmes and application guidelines.
- Official SETA portals list up‑to‑date learnership opportunities and contact information.
