Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) is offering a range of learnership programs designed specifically for unemployed South Africans. These learnerships provide a fantastic chance for young people to gain valuable skills, practical work experience, and nationally recognized qualifications in various fields such as packaging, logistics, manufacturing, sales, and human resources.
What Is a Learnership?
A learnership is a structured training program that combines both classroom-based theoretical learning and practical on-the-job training. Upon completion, learners earn a national qualification registered on the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) National Qualifications Framework (NQF). This qualification is recognized across the country and improves learners’ chances of finding employment or progressing in their careers.
1. Packaging Learnership: Gauteng (Wadeville/Midrand)
CCBSA is offering seven learnership opportunities in their Packaging department at their Nigel Manufacturing site. This program leads to a National Certificate in Food and Beverage Packaging (NQF Level 3).
Key Details:
- Duration: Fixed-term contract with theoretical and on-the-job learning.
- Requirements: South African citizenship, Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science (no Maths Literacy), must be an employment equity candidate, and not previously completed this qualification elsewhere.
- Skills Developed: Attention to detail, teamwork, and self-motivation.
This program prepares learners for a career in the food and beverage packaging industry, teaching skills essential for working in a fast-moving manufacturing environment.
2. Warehouse Learnership: Gauteng (Midrand/Wadeville)
For those interested in logistics and distribution, CCBSA offers a Warehouse Learnership focused on wholesale and retail distribution. This program equips learners with knowledge in stock handling, stock movement, customer service, and health and safety.
Key Details:
- Duration: 12 months.
- Qualification: National Certificate with 120 credits.
- Requirements: Grade 12 with Mathematics and Science, no prior completion of the same learnership, and no experience required.
- Skills Developed: Stock management, safe delivery, legal compliance, and teamwork.
This learnership opens doors to careers in the logistics and warehousing sectors, with skills transferable to various business environments.
3. Manufacturing Learner: Western Cape (Grabouw)
CCBSA’s manufacturing learnership at their Grabouw plant offers learners a National Certificate in Food and Beverage Packaging (NQF Level 3), similar to the packaging program but focused on production operations.
Key Details:
- Requirements: Grade 12 with minimum percentages in Maths (40%) and Physical Science (50%), must be unemployed, between 18-35 years old, and an employment equity candidate.
- Additional: N5/N6 qualifications are advantageous.
- Skills Developed: Attention to detail, teamwork, and self-motivation.
This learnership is ideal for youth eager to build a career in beverage production and manufacturing.
4. Sales Learner: Western Cape (George)
CCBSA offers a Sales Learnership leading to a National Certificate in Marketing (NQF Level 4) aimed at equipping learners with the skills needed in sales, customer service, and merchandising.
Key Details:
- Requirements: Grade 12 with Maths or Maths Literacy (minimum 40%), two South African languages, must be unemployed, aged 18-35, and an employment equity candidate.
- Additional: Driver’s license is advantageous.
- Skills Developed: Communication, customer management, problem-solving, and teamwork.
This program is designed for confident, energetic individuals who want to thrive in sales and marketing roles.
5. Human Resources Learner (For People with Disabilities): KwaZulu-Natal (Phoenix)
CCBSA also supports people with disabilities through a special HR learnership. This program offers a National Certificate: Business Administration Services (NQF Level 3), blending formal training with on-the-job experience.
Key Details:
- Requirements: Grade 12 with Maths or Maths Literacy and English (minimum 40%), must be unemployed, aged 18-34, present a medical certificate detailing the disability, no criminal or negative credit record.
- Commitment: 12 months, attendance required on weekdays and Saturdays if needed.
- Skills Developed: Administration, organisation, communication, and flexibility.
This program promotes inclusivity and empowers disabled learners to enter the corporate world.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit:
- A detailed CV
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified copy of ID
- Proof of residence
- Driver’s license (if required for specific learnerships)
Shortlisted candidates will undergo literacy and numeracy testing, medical and security clearance checks.
Why Choose a Learnership at CCBSA?
- National Qualifications: All programs lead to SAQA-accredited certificates.
- Paid Learnerships: Stipends are provided according to SETA requirements.
- Real Work Experience: Learnerships combine theory with practical workplace experience.
- Career Growth: The skills and qualifications gained can open doors in manufacturing, logistics, sales, HR, and more.
- Diversity & Inclusion: Special programs support people with disabilities and promote employment equity.
Check also: SC Johnson: Graduate Internship Programme (2026)
For South African youth who are unemployed and eager to gain skills and qualifications that matter, these learnership opportunities at Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa represent a valuable step toward a brighter future. With different programs tailored to suit various interests and abilities, there’s a pathway for many to start building their careers today.
