SDC Unemployed Youth Development Learnerships 2026

The Skills Development Corporation (SDC) provides accredited learnerships and skills programs designed to bridge the gap between unemployed youth and the labor market. These 12-month programs combine theoretical classroom training (approx. 30%) with practical workplace experience (approx. 70%).

1. General Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for a learnership at SDC, applicants must meet the following baseline requirements:

• Nationality: Must be a South African Citizen.
• B-BBEE Status: Must be a Black person (African, Indian, or Coloured) as per B-BBEE definitions.
• Age: Between 18 and 28 years old.
• Education: Minimum of Grade 12 (Matric). Note: Some specialized programs like Truck Driving or General Security may accept Grade 10 or 11.
• Status: Currently unemployed and not enrolled in any other studies.
• Commitment: Must be available for the full 12-month duration of the programme and attend mandatory training.

2. Required Documentation

You will need to submit clear, certified copies (not older than 3 months) of the following:

• Updated CV: Including any tertiary qualifications or previous work experience.
• Identity Document: 2 x Certified color copies of your South African ID.
• Education Certificates: 2 x Certified copies of your highest school qualification (e.g., Matric Certificate).
• Proof of Residence: A recent document (utility bill or tribal office letter) confirming your address.
• Bank Statement: A 3-month bank statement (not older than 3 months).
• SARS Tax Number: Your official Notice of Registration from SARS.
• Medical Certificate: If you are applying as a learner with a disability, a valid medical certificate confirming the nature of the disability is mandatory.

3. Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Online Registration (Sourcing Pool)

Eligible learners must first join the SDC Sourcing Pool by submitting their details online.

• Abled Learners: sdcorp.co.za/student-hub/abled-learner-application
• Disabled Learners: sdcorp.co.za/student-hub/disabled-learner-application

Step 2: Physical Document Submission

Even after applying online, you must hand-deliver your original documents to an SDC campus for validation.

• Johannesburg Campus: 24 Achter Road, Paulshof, Sandton.
• Cape Town Campus: 4th Floor, Bloemhof Building, 112 Edward Street, Bellville.
• Submission Times: * Abled Learners: Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
  • Disabled Learners: Mon & Fri, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

Step 3: Screening & Interview

If your documents are validated, you will be invited for a brief pre-screening interview to assess your communication skills and background.

Step 4: Assessment Test

All applicants are required to write an assessment test. You must achieve a minimum score of 80% to proceed.

Step 5: Database Validation & Placement

Once you pass the assessment, you are added to the “Validated Applicant Database.” You will be contacted for enrolment once a client-sponsored learnership matching your profile becomes available.

4. Available Fields (Examples)

• Business Administration (NQF 2, 3, 4)
• IT: End User Computing or Systems Support (NQF 3, 4, 5)
• Project Management & Marketing (NQF 5)
• Wealth Management & Insurance (NQF 4, 5)
• Technical trades: Truck Driving, Cybersecurity, or Clearing & Forwarding.

5. Contact Information

For direct inquiries regarding your application status:

• Official Website: sdcorp.co.za

1. Key Benefits for Learners

• Monthly Stipend: You receive a monthly allowance (stipend) to cover basic living expenses such as transport and food. This is not a salary but a support payment to ensure you can attend the program without financial strain.
• Accredited Qualification: Upon successful completion, you earn a nationally recognized qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) through SETA or QCTO.
• Workplace Exposure: You are placed with a host employer to gain real-world experience, allowing you to build a professional network and understand workplace culture.
• Work Readiness Training: SDC provides “Workplace Readiness” training, which includes soft skills like time management, professional etiquette, communication, and dress code.
• Career Support: The program includes CV writing assistance, LinkedIn profile optimization, and mock interview sessions to prepare you for permanent job applications.
• Employment Opportunities: Many learnerships serve as a “12-month interview.” If you perform well, there is a high possibility of being absorbed into a permanent role by the host employer.

2. Available Fields of Study

SDC offers a variety of learnerships aligned with “scarce and critical skills” in South Africa, including:

• Business & Admin: Business Administration, Generic Management, Project Management.
• Information Technology: Technical Support, End-User Computing, Cybersecurity, Cloud Administration.
• Finance: Bookkeeping, Wealth Management, Insurance.
• Vocational: Wholesale & Retail Operations, Truck Driving (Occupational Certificate).

3. Application Checklist

If you plan to apply at the SDC campuses in Johannesburg (Sandton) or Cape Town (Bellville), you will need:

1. Updated CV.
2. Certified copies of your ID (usually 2 copies).
3. Certified copies of your Matric certificate or highest qualification.
4. Proof of residence.
5. SARS Tax Number (Notice of Registration).
6. 3-month bank statement (in your own name).
7. Medical Certificate (only if applying as a learner with a disability).

4. The Selection Process

1. Online Submission: Join the SDC learner sourcing pool via their website.
2. Document Review: SDC validates your certificates and ID.
3. Interview: A brief screening to assess your communication skills and background.
4. Assessment Test: You must complete an assessment and typically score 80% or higher to be placed in the validated database.
5. Placement: Once a corporate sponsor is found, you are invited to sign your 12-month contract.