Johannesburg, South Africa – Eskom Opens Learner Diplomat Programme for 2026, offering young South Africans an opportunity to gain structured workplace experience, formal training, and exposure within one of the country’s most critical state-owned enterprises. The programme forms part of Eskom’s long-term skills development strategy aimed at building a sustainable talent pipeline for the energy sector.
The 2026 intake targets qualifying learners who have completed relevant qualifications and are seeking practical experience aligned with their field of study. As South Africa continues to prioritise energy stability, infrastructure renewal, and skills transfer, Eskom’s learner initiatives remain an important pathway into technical and professional careers.
What Is the Eskom Learner Diplomat Programme?
The Eskom Learner Diplomat Programme is a structured learning and development initiative designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world work experience. Participants are placed within Eskom operating units, where they receive mentorship, practical exposure, and on-the-job training aligned with national skills frameworks.
Programme objectives
- Develop scarce and critical skills within the energy sector
- Provide structured workplace learning aligned with qualifications
- Support youth employability and career readiness
- Strengthen Eskom’s future skills capacity
Unlike short informal placements, this programme follows a formal learning plan, ensuring that learners gain measurable competencies relevant to their disciplines.
Eskom Learner Diplomat Programme 2026 Intake Overview
The 2026 intake is expected to accommodate learners across various Eskom divisions, depending on operational needs and approved training capacity.
Key highlights
- Programme type: Learner / Diplomat Programme
- Intake year: 2026
- Sector: Energy, Engineering, Corporate & Support Services
- Duration: Typically 12–24 months (varies by discipline)
- Location: Various Eskom sites across South Africa
Eskom has indicated that placements will be distributed nationally, allowing learners from different provinces to access opportunities closer to operational sites.
Fields of Study Typically Considered
While availability depends on Eskom’s annual workforce planning, previous intakes have included learners from the following disciplines:
Engineering and Technical Fields
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Power Plant Operations
- Instrumentation and Control
Information and Technology
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Systems Support
- Data and Network-related disciplines
Business and Corporate Services
- Finance and Accounting
- Human Resources
- Supply Chain Management
- Procurement and Logistics
- Public Administration
Applicants are advised to apply only for fields aligned with their completed qualifications, as unrelated applications are unlikely to be shortlisted.
Minimum Requirements for the 2026 Programme
Although requirements may differ slightly by discipline, applicants are generally expected to meet the following criteria:
Basic eligibility criteria
- Be a South African citizen
- Have completed a relevant diploma or qualification
- Be unemployed and seeking workplace experience
- Not have previously participated in a similar Eskom programme
- Meet Eskom’s employment equity considerations
Additional requirements
- Strong academic results in the relevant field
- Willingness to undergo assessments and background checks
- Availability for the full programme duration
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection, as the programme is competitive and subject to limited intake numbers.
Related Opportunities 2026
- Funding Bursaries
- Youth Opportunities
- Internship Programme
- Learnership Programme
- Online Courses
- Government Education Updates
How the Selection Process Works
Eskom follows a structured recruitment and selection process to ensure fairness, transparency, and skills alignment.
Selection stages
- Online application submission
- Initial screening based on qualifications and eligibility
- Shortlisting aligned with operational needs
- Assessments and interviews (where applicable)
- Final placement approval
Successful applicants are contacted directly by Eskom. Due to high application volumes, unsuccessful candidates may not always receive individual feedback.
Benefits of Joining the Eskom Learner Diplomat Programme
Participating in the 2026 intake offers several long-term career advantages, especially for graduates seeking industry exposure.
Professional development benefits
- Structured on-the-job training
- Exposure to large-scale energy infrastructure
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
- Practical skills aligned with industry standards
Career advantages
- Improved employability after programme completion
- Enhanced understanding of the energy sector
- Opportunity to build a professional network
- Strong workplace reference from a reputable organisation
While completion does not guarantee permanent employment, many former learners report improved career prospects across both public and private sectors.
Eskom’s Commitment to Skills Development
Eskom remains one of South Africa’s largest contributors to technical skills development, particularly in engineering and artisan-related fields. The Learner Diplomat Programme supports national priorities such as youth employment, skills transfer, and industrial development.
Alignment with national strategies
- Supports government youth employment initiatives
- Contributes to scarce skills development
- Strengthens transformation and inclusion goals
- Builds long-term sector sustainability
This commitment reinforces Eskom’s role not only as an energy provider, but also as a national skills development partner.
Application Process for the 2026 Intake
Applications for the Eskom Learner Diplomat Programme are submitted online only through official Eskom recruitment platforms.
How to apply Eskom Opens Learner Diplomat Programme for 2026
- Visit Eskom’s official careers portal
- Search for Learner Diplomat Programme 2026
- Complete the online application form
- Upload certified supporting documents
- Submit before the closing date
Apply online through Eskom’s careers portal: Apply for Eskom Learner Diplomat 2026 (Official)
Applicants should ensure that all information provided is accurate and that documents are clearly uploaded to avoid disqualification.
Important Dates and Closing Information
3 February 2026 — candidates must submit their applications on or before this date to be considered.
Tips for a Strong Application
To improve your chances of being shortlisted:
Application best practices
- Apply only for relevant fields
- Ensure documents are certified and readable
- Use a professional CV focused on your qualification
- Double-check all personal details before submission
Avoid submitting multiple unrelated applications, as this may negatively affect your application credibility.
Final Thoughts
The Eskom Learner Diplomat Programme 2026 Intake represents a valuable opportunity for young South Africans seeking meaningful workplace experience within the energy sector. With structured training, mentorship, and exposure to critical national infrastructure, the programme continues to play an important role in developing future professionals.
Applicants who meet the requirements and are committed to learning are encouraged to apply through official Eskom channels and to monitor updates regularly.
