The Transnet Work Integrated Learning (Non-Technical) Programme 2026 is officially open, offering South African students and graduates a valuable opportunity to gain real-world workplace experience within one of the country’s most critical state-owned enterprises.
This programme is designed specifically for non-technical fields and supports students who require structured workplace exposure to complete their qualifications or strengthen their employability. For many young people entering the job market, the lack of practical experience remains a major barrier. Transnet’s WIL programme directly addresses this challenge by combining academic learning with hands-on professional experience in a real corporate environment.
What Is the Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme?
The Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme is a structured experiential learning initiative aimed at students and graduates who need practical exposure as part of their academic requirements or early career development.
Unlike internships that often require completed qualifications, this programme focuses on bridging the gap between theory and practice. Participants are placed within Transnet’s operational and administrative departments, where they gain exposure to real work responsibilities aligned with their field of study.
The non-technical stream focuses on office-based and administrative disciplines rather than engineering or artisan trades.
Purpose of the Transnet WIL Programme 2026
The programme is designed to support youth development by providing practical experience that enhances employability and workplace readiness. Through this initiative, Transnet aims to equip participants with professional skills, administrative competence, and exposure to corporate governance within the public sector.
Participants are given the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in a real working environment, develop professional conduct, and build confidence while contributing meaningfully to organisational operations.
Non-Technical Fields Supported
The Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme 2026 supports a range of non-technical study fields. Applicants from the following disciplines, or closely related areas, are encouraged to apply:
Human Resource Management
Industrial Psychology
Business Administration
Public Management
Financial Management
Accounting
Supply Chain Management
Logistics Management
Marketing Management
Communications
Office Administration
Information Management
Risk Management
Fields supported may vary depending on departmental needs within Transnet’s various divisions.
Who Can Apply for the Transnet WIL Programme 2026?
To qualify for the Transnet Work Integrated Learning (Non-Technical) Programme 2026, applicants must be South African citizens and must be students or graduates from recognised TVET Colleges or Universities.
Applicants should require Work Integrated Learning or practical workplace exposure and must be between the ages of 18 and 35. Candidates must be unemployed and not currently participating in another internship or learnership programme.
Applicants should either be enrolled in, or have completed, a relevant non-technical qualification and should generally have no prior formal work experience related to their field of study.
Preference may be given to youth from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and applicants from designated employment equity groups.
Why Choose Transnet for Work Integrated Learning?
Transnet is one of South Africa’s largest and most influential State-Owned Enterprises, responsible for rail, port, and freight logistics infrastructure. Completing Work Integrated Learning at Transnet adds strong credibility to a graduate’s CV and provides exposure to large-scale public sector operations.
Participants gain insight into structured governance systems, professional workplace standards, and the operational realities of a national SOE. This experience is highly regarded by both public and private sector employers.
Skills You Can Expect to Develop
During the programme, participants typically develop workplace communication skills, administrative and reporting capabilities, professional conduct and ethics, and a practical understanding of corporate governance. Exposure to public sector operations also helps participants understand compliance, accountability, and organisational structures.
These skills are transferable and valuable across a wide range of industries and career paths.
Duration and Structure of the Programme
The Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme usually runs for up to 12 months, depending on the requirements of the qualification and the hosting department.
Participants are placed in relevant departments where they perform real workplace tasks under supervision. They receive mentorship, align their duties with academic outcomes, and compile reports or logbooks required by their institutions. This is a developmental learning programme and does not constitute permanent employment.
Stipend Information
The Transnet WIL Programme typically provides a monthly stipend to assist participants with basic living and transport expenses. The exact stipend amount may vary depending on programme funding, duration, and placement location. Applicants are advised to refer to the official Transnet advert for confirmed stipend details.
Programme Locations
Participants may be placed across various Transnet offices nationally. Common placement locations include Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, and Mpumalanga. Placement is determined by operational needs and availability.
How to Apply for the Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme 2026
Applications must be submitted through official Transnet recruitment platforms. Applicants are required to visit the Transnet Careers portal, search for the Work Integrated Learning Programme 2026 – Non-Technical, complete the online application form, and upload all required documents.
Required documents typically include an updated CV, certified copy of ID, academic record or statement of results, proof of registration or institutional letter requiring WIL, and qualification certificates if already completed.
The official Transnet application platform is available here:
https://transnettalentportal.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/3746?c=transnettalentportal
Incomplete applications are not considered.
Selection and Assessment Process
After applications close, shortlisted candidates may be invited to interviews, assessments, and background or qualification verification checks. Only successful applicants will be contacted by Transnet.
Career Benefits After Completing the Programme
While completion of the Transnet WIL Programme does not guarantee permanent employment, it significantly improves employability. Participants leave the programme with recognised workplace experience, professional references, and exposure to large-scale organisational operations.
Many former participants go on to secure opportunities within government departments, other state-owned enterprises, private sector companies, or graduate internship programmes.
Conclusion
The Transnet Work Integrated Learning (Non-Technical) Programme 2026 is a highly valuable opportunity for students and graduates who need structured workplace exposure to strengthen their career prospects. With its strong institutional credibility, supervised learning environment, and real-world experience, the programme offers a solid foundation for long-term career growth.
For young South Africans seeking meaningful experience, professional development, and exposure to a respected state-owned enterprise, this programme is well worth applying for. The closing date for applications is 15 January 2026, and all applications must be submitted online through the official Transnet Talent Portal before this date.
