In its continued commitment to youth empowerment and career development, Rentokil Initial, a global leader in hygiene and pest control services, rolled out a 12-month Business Administration Learnership Programme in Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal. This opportunity, although now expired, offers a valuable case study of how private companies can actively support skills development in South Africa.
The programme was designed to provide real-world work experience alongside formal training. Candidates were placed on a fixed-term contract and enrolled for a nationally recognized NQF Level 3 Business Administration qualification, registered with the Services SETA.
Programme Structure: Blended Learning for Real Growth
The learnership adopted a blended learning model, combining structured online lessons with in-office practical experience. This ensured that learners could apply theory to real-world tasks, gaining essential business skills in the process.
- Online Facilitation: Two days a month via Google Meets
- Self-Study: Required to complement facilitated sessions
- Workplace Learning: Full-time role within Rentokil Initial to gain practical experience
Learning Content: 9 Skill Clusters
The programme was divided into nine core clusters, covering everything a modern business administrator needs to know:
- Communication Skills
Improve verbal and written workplace communication. - Business Writing Skills
Learn formal email writing, report generation, and documentation.
Credit Accumulation Transfer applicable. - HR Skills
Gain knowledge of recruitment, employee files, and HR procedures. - Customer Service
Handle client interactions and respond to service queries. - Administration Skills
Manage filing systems, record keeping, and office logistics. - Organisation Skills
Prioritize tasks, time management, and multi-tasking. - Numeracy and Research Skills
Apply maths in admin tasks and conduct workplace research. - IT Skills
Use Microsoft Office, booking systems, and communication tools. - General Business Skills
Understand business structures, teamwork, and workplace relations.
Key Duties and Work Outputs
During the learnership, candidates were integrated into Rentokil Initial’s operational structure. Their key responsibilities included:
- Collecting and Reporting Information
Gathering data from departments and clients. - Information System Monitoring
Managing internal documentation and workflow tools. - Booking System Maintenance
Updating calendars, schedules, and service logs. - Meeting Coordination
Organizing agendas, minutes, and event logistics. - Information Production via Technology
Creating reports using digital tools. - Basic Office Research
Assisting with market and internal business research. - Travel and Event Planning
Arranging small-scale company events or staff travel. - Personal Goal Setting
Developing self-discipline and performance targets. - Team Collaboration
Working effectively with others and aligning with company culture. - Understanding Employment Relations
Learning workplace rights, duties, and team ethics.
Required Skills and Competencies
Rentokil Initial aimed to develop learners into efficient, confident office professionals. To be eligible, candidates were expected to possess the following:
- Customer Focus
Ability to understand and meet client needs. - Professionalism
Presentable, respectful, and enthusiastic attitude. - Strong Communication
Clear speaking, writing, and listening skills. - Time Management
Ability to meet deadlines and manage tasks. - Team Player
Comfortable collaborating in a business environment. - Numerical and Digital Literacy
Proficiency in using basic mathematics and office software.
Qualifications and Entry Requirements
Interested candidates needed to meet the following criteria:
- Matric Certificate (minimum requirement)
- Post-Matric Qualification such as NQF Level 5, 6, or 7
- Computer Literate with experience in MS Word, Excel, and email systems
- Fluent Communication skills in English
- Numerical Acumen for data-related tasks
Why Learnerships Matter
South Africa continues to grapple with high youth unemployment, especially among graduates. Learnerships like this one provide:
- Work Experience to bridge the gap between education and employment
- Skills Development aligned with industry needs
- Certification through SETA-recognized qualifications
- Networking Opportunities within reputable companies
For many young people, this is the first step into meaningful employment.
The 12-month Business Administration Learnership offered by Rentokil Initial in Pinetown stands as a strong example of how corporate initiatives can support South Africa’s drive to upskill its youth and reduce unemployment. By combining theoretical learning with practical workplace exposure, the programme not only equipped graduates with relevant business skills but also improved their chances of long-term employment.
For many young professionals, opportunities like this provide the critical first step toward building a meaningful and sustainable career. Although this specific learnership has closed, it highlights the importance of staying informed, prepared, and proactive. Business Administration graduates should remain on the lookout for similar programmes, as they offer invaluable experience and formal qualifications within respected organizations.
Check also: The Foschini Group YES Learnership Programme
