Eskom Learnership 2026

Eskom Learnership 2026 cycle represents a critical gateway for unemployed youth to gain industry-standard skills.

This guide provides an exhaustive breakdown of the application process, available fields, and strategic tips to ensure your application stands out in the 2026 intake.

1. Overview of Eskom Learnerships for 2026

Eskom learnerships are structured programs that combine theoretical classroom learning with practical, on-the-job training. For the 2026 academic and fiscal year, these opportunities are specifically designed to address the youth unemployment crisis while building a pipeline of skilled workers for the energy sector.

Core Objectives

• Skill Acquisition: Bridging the gap between formal education and workplace requirements.

• Economic Empowerment: Providing a monthly stipend to participants, allowing them to support themselves while learning.

• National Development: Aligning with South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) to foster a more capable workforce.

2. Key Learnership Categories

The 2026 intake is expected to cover several diverse fields. Understanding where your qualifications align is the first step toward a successful application.

A. Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme

The YES initiative is a flagship partnership between the Presidency and the private sector.

• Duration: 12 Months.

• Focus: General work experience, administration, and basic operational support.

• Requirements: Grade 12 (Matric) is the standard entry requirement.

B. Plant Operations (Learner Plant Operator)

Ideal for those interested in the “heart” of power generation.

• Focus: Monitoring and controlling power station units, thermodynamics, and energy conversion.

• Typical Requirements: Matric with Mathematics (50%), Physical Science (50%), and English (40%).

C. Technical and Artisan Fields

These programs are geared toward those with a technical mindset.

• Fields: Electrical (Heavy/Light Current), Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Instrumentation.

• Requirements: N3–N6 certificates or S4/S5 diplomas in relevant engineering streams.

D. Contact Centre and Commercial

• Focus: Customer service, billing inquiries, and service delivery.

• Requirements: Matric or National Diploma in Marketing, Customer Service, or Business Management.

3. Eligibility Criteria for 2026

To be considered for an Eskom learnership, candidates must meet the following baseline requirements:

1. Nationality: Must be a South African citizen with a valid ID.

2. Age: Typically between 18 and 34 years old.

3. Employment Status: Must be currently unemployed.

4. Prior Participation: You must not have participated in a similar YES or Eskom learnership program previously.

5. Study Status: Must not be studying full-time during the 2026 period.

6. Criminal Record: A clean criminal record is generally required for security clearance.

4. How to Apply: The Official Process

Eskom uses a centralized online recruitment system. Following the correct steps is vital, as manual applications are rarely accepted.

Step 1: Profile Creation

Visit the Eskom Careers Portal.

• Register an account using a valid email address.

• Ensure your password contains at least one uppercase letter, one number, and one special character.

Step 2: Document Preparation

Upload high-quality, certified copies of the following:

• Updated CV (in PDF or Word format).

• National Identity Document (ID).

• Matric Certificate.

• Relevant tertiary qualifications (if applicable).

Step 3: Searching for Vacancies

Use the search bar on the portal to look for keywords like “Learner,” “YES,” or “Apprentice.” Filter by province to find opportunities near you (e.g., Mpumalanga, Gauteng, or Western Cape).

Step 4: Submission

Review your details carefully before hitting “Apply.” Once submitted, you should receive an automated confirmation email. Keep this for your records.

5. Important Timelines to Remember

Note: If you haven’t heard from Eskom within 28 days after the closing date, you should generally consider your application unsuccessful.

6. Tips for a Competitive Application

• Check the Portal Daily: Advertisements can appear and disappear quickly due to high volumes of applicants.

• Optimize Your CV: Use keywords found in the job description (e.g., “Safety,” “Team Player,” “Technical Skills”).

• Accuracy Matters: Ensure your contact details (phone and email) are correct. Eskom will use these for all communications.

• Location Awareness: Some learnerships prefer candidates residing near specific power stations (like Kusile, Matimba, or Koeberg). Mention your location clearly.

7. What Happens if You Are Selected?

The selection process is rigorous and may involve:

1. Psychometric Testing: Assessing your cognitive and technical aptitude.

2. Medical Screening: Ensuring you are fit for industrial environments.

3. Formal Interview: A panel interview to gauge your behavioral traits like integrity and professionalism.

Upon successful completion of the learnership, you will receive a recognized qualification or certificate of service, significantly enhancing your employability within the broader energy sector.

Would you like me to help you draft a cover letter or optimize your CV specifically for an Eskom technical learnership?