The 12-Months Contact Centre Learnership 2026 has officially opened, offering unemployed South Africans a structured pathway into the growing customer service and business process outsourcing (BPO) sector. With a monthly stipend of R5,000, this learnership combines accredited training with real workplace experience, making it an attractive opportunity for youth and first-time job seekers.
South Africa’s contact centre industry continues to expand rapidly, supporting both local and international clients. As digital customer support becomes essential across industries, demand for trained contact centre agents is expected to grow through 2026 and beyond.
What Is the 12-Months Contact Centre Learnership?
The Contact Centre Learnership is a 12-month, work-based training programme designed to equip learners with practical and theoretical skills required to work in professional call centres and customer support environments.
The programme is usually aligned with SAQA-registered qualifications under the Services SETA (SETA) or related Sector Education and Training Authorities. Learners receive classroom instruction, online learning, and on-the-job experience in a real contact centre environment.
Key Features of the Contact Centre Learnership 2026
- Duration: 12 months
- Monthly stipend: R5,000
- Qualification: Nationally recognised
- Work-based learning: Yes
- Cost to learner: None
- Target group: Unemployed youth
Why the Contact Centre Learnership 2026 Matters
South Africa is one of the world’s leading destinations for outsourced customer service. Global companies choose South African contact centres because of English proficiency, cultural compatibility, and strong work ethics.
By 2026, employers are prioritising candidates who combine soft skills, digital literacy, and customer experience knowledge. This learnership directly addresses those needs.
Industry Relevance and Employability
Graduates of contact centre learnerships are often absorbed into permanent roles such as:
- Call centre agent
- Customer service consultant
- Technical support agent
- Sales and retention advisor
- Client services administrator
Who Can Apply for the Contact Centre Learnership 2026?
Eligibility criteria may vary slightly by training provider, but most programmes follow similar requirements.
Minimum Requirements
- South African citizen
- Aged 18–35 years
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Matric (Grade 12) certificate
- English communication skills (written and verbal)
- Basic computer literacy
Preferred but Not Always Required
- Previous customer service exposure
- Call centre experience (advantage, not mandatory)
- Ability to work shifts
- Strong interpersonal skills
Monthly Stipend: How the R5,000 Works
Learners receive a monthly stipend of R5,000, paid throughout the 12-month programme. The stipend is intended to support basic living expenses such as transport and meals.
Important Stipend Notes
- The stipend is not a salary
- Payment depends on attendance and participation
- Learners must meet performance and assessment requirements
- The stipend does not affect eligibility for the programme
Skills You Will Gain During the Contact Centre Learnership
The Contact Centre Learnership 2026 focuses on practical, job-ready skills aligned with modern customer experience standards.
Core Contact Centre Skills
- Customer service excellence
- Professional telephone etiquette
- Call handling and resolution techniques
- Complaint management
- Sales and upselling fundamentals
Digital and Technical Skills
- CRM systems usage
- Email and live chat support
- Call logging and reporting
- Data protection and POPIA awareness
- Workplace digital tools
Workplace and Soft Skills
- Communication and listening skills
- Team collaboration
- Time management
- Problem-solving
- Workplace ethics and professionalism
Qualification and Accreditation
Most Contact Centre Learnerships are aligned with qualifications such as:
- National Certificate: Contact Centre Support
- National Certificate: Customer Management
- Occupational Certificate: Contact Centre Agent
These qualifications are recognised nationally and improve employability across industries including telecommunications, retail, banking, insurance, healthcare, and government services.
Career Opportunities After Completing the Learnership
Completing the Contact Centre Learnership 2026 opens multiple career pathways.
Entry-Level Roles
- Call Centre Agent
- Customer Support Consultant
- Helpdesk Operator
Growth Opportunities
With experience and performance, learners can progress to:
- Team Leader
- Quality Assurance Analyst
- Workforce Planner
- Trainer or Coach
- Operations Supervisor
The contact centre sector also provides opportunities for international exposure and remote work as global companies increasingly hire South African agents.
Related Opportunities 2026
- Funding Bursaries
- Youth Opportunities
- Internship Programme
- Learnership Programme
- Online Courses
- Government Education Updates
How to Prepare a Strong Application
Competition for learnerships can be high. Preparation significantly improves your chances.
Required Documents
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified Matric certificate
- Updated CV
- Proof of address (if required)
CV Tips for Contact Centre Learnerships
- Highlight communication skills
- Include computer or digital skills
- Mention any customer-facing experience
- Keep the CV clear and professional
Interview Preparation
- Practice speaking clearly and confidently
- Understand basic customer service principles
- Be honest about your skills and willingness to learn
- Show enthusiasm for working with people
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Submitting incomplete applications
- Using unprofessional email addresses
- Providing incorrect contact details
- Missing closing dates
- Copy-paste CVs with errors
Accuracy and professionalism reflect readiness for the contact centre environment.
Is the Contact Centre Learnership 2026 Worth It?
From an industry and career perspective, the answer is yes.
Key Benefits
- Earn while you learn
- Gain recognised qualification
- Build real work experience
- Improve employability
- Access growing job market
For unemployed youth, this learnership offers a practical bridge between education and employment.
How to apply 12-Months Contact Centre Learnership 2026 Opens
Submit Application on Services SETA Direct Hire Portal
This portal lets you fill in an application form which might be used by SETA-approved employers and training providers
Expert Insight on Contact Centre Careers in South Africa
Industry experts consistently highlight contact centres as one of South Africa’s fastest-growing employment sectors. Training-based programmes like learnerships are increasingly preferred by employers because they produce job-ready candidates.
Experience from previous learners shows that commitment, attendance, and performance often lead to contract extensions or permanent employment.
Final Thoughts on the Contact Centre Learnership 2026
The 12-Months Contact Centre Learnership 2026 with a R5,000 monthly stipend is more than just a training programme—it is a structured entry point into a sustainable career.
For motivated individuals willing to learn, communicate professionally, and grow within a fast-paced environment, this opportunity can be life-changing.
Staying informed, applying early, and preparing thoroughly are key steps toward success.
Closing Date: Not yet announced. Applications may close early once all learner positions are filled. Applicants are advised to apply as soon as possible.
