Discover Skills Opportunities in Wholesale and Retail Across South Africa
Are you an unemployed South African youth looking to enter the wholesale and retail industry? The W&RSETA Skills Development Programmes for 2025/2026 could be the stepping stone you need. Whether you’re aiming for a learnership, bursary, internship, or short skills course, this initiative offers real opportunities—with stipends, formal training, and recognised qualifications.
Programme Closing Date
Applications are accepted until early 2026. However, keep in mind that bursary submissions usually close by March. Always refer to W&RSETA announcements for confirmed dates.
About W&RSETA and Its Purpose
What is W&RSETA?
The Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) was established in 2000 as part of South Africa’s national drive to upskill its workforce. Operating under the Department of Higher Education and Training, it has been at the forefront of empowering individuals through professional training for over two decades.
Its main focus? Strengthening skills in areas like Retail Operations, Wholesale Management, and Supply Chain—while promoting self-employment and competitiveness in a constantly evolving industry.
Why These Programmes Matter
The aim of these development programmes is more than just training. They are designed to align with the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP) and to tackle real challenges like unemployment, evolving market needs, and the impact of technology (especially the Fourth Industrial Revolution).
What’s on Offer: Programme Breakdown
W&RSETA runs a variety of development streams. Here’s how each programme works:
Learnerships
- Duration: 12–18 months
- Qualification Level: NQF Level 2–5 (e.g., Retail Operations, Supply Chain Operations)
- Eligibility: Grade 12 required
- Stipend: R2,500 to R4,500 per month (estimated)
Bursaries
- Duration: 1–4 years (Undergraduate)
- Fields: BCom Retail Management, Supply Chain Management, and others
- Eligibility: Grade 12 plus tertiary institution acceptance
- Value: Up to R60,000 (tuition, books, accommodation)
Internships
- Duration: 12–24 months
- Level: NQF Level 6–7
- Eligibility: Relevant diploma or degree
- Stipend: R2,500 to R4,500 per month
Short Skills Programmes
- Courses: Customer Service, Warehouse Management, etc.
- Duration: 1–6 months
- Eligibility: Grade 12
- Support: Partial funding (no stipend)
Each programme includes a mix of theoretical learning, workplace experience, and formal assessments. At the end, participants receive nationally recognized qualifications or certificates.
What You’ll Be Doing
Responsibilities for Each Programme
Learnership Participants
- Engage in stock management, merchandising, or customer service
- Complete theory sessions and workplace assessments
- Follow retail industry standards and company policies
Bursary Recipients
- Focus on academic performance
- Submit progress reports regularly
- Participate in relevant retail research or projects
Interns
- Assist in retail and supply chain functions
- Work on inventory, sales support, or customer interactions
- Take part in mentorship and professional development sessions
Why Choose W&RSETA?
These programmes offer more than just training. They’re designed to set you up for long-term success. Here’s what you stand to gain:
Key Benefits
- Monthly stipends between R2,500 and R4,500 (learnerships/internships)
- Bursaries worth up to R60,000 for tuition, books, and accommodation
- Industry-recognised NQF qualifications (Levels 2 to 7)
- Increased chances of finding employment in the wholesale and retail sector
- Access to experienced mentors and accredited training providers
Are You Eligible?
General Requirements
- South African citizen with a valid ID
- Aged 18–35 for learnerships and bursaries (no upper age for internships)
- Grade 12 for most programmes
- Unemployed or employed within the wholesale/retail space
- No previous enrolment in the same W&RSETA programme
- No criminal record (background checks will be done)
Preferred Applicants
- Candidates from Employment Equity groups (e.g., Black, Coloured, Indian, women, and people with disabilities)
- Residents of Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and rural areas
- Individuals committed to completing the programme
What Skills Do You Need?
While each programme has unique expectations, there are some general qualities that W&RSETA looks for:
- Good communication and customer service abilities
- Passion for the retail and wholesale industry
- Strong time management and organisational skills
- Basic computer literacy
- Professionalism and a willingness to learn
How to Apply for the 2025/2026 Programmes
Application Instructions
Submit your application before the closing deadline in early 2026 (typically March for bursaries). You can:
- Email your application to: wrseta@wrseta.org.za
- Hand-deliver it to:
Riverside Office Park, Hennops House, 1303 Heuwel Avenue,
Corner of Lenchen South & Heuwel Avenue, Centurion, Pretoria
What to Include in Your Application
Make sure your submission includes:
- A detailed CV
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate, tertiary qualification, or university acceptance letter
- Proof of residence (certified within the last 6 months)
- The specific programme you’re applying for (e.g., Learnership: Retail Operations)
Note: Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. There are no application fees.
If shortlisted, you’ll be contacted within 60 to 90 days after the closing date. If you do not receive feedback within that timeframe, your application was unfortunately unsuccessful.
Need Help?
Contact Details
If you have questions or need assistance, reach out via:
- Email: wrseta@wrseta.org.za
- Phone: +27 12 622 9500
- Physical Address: Riverside Office Park, Hennops House,
1303 Heuwel Avenue, Corner of Lenchen South & Heuwel Avenue, Centurion, Pretoria - Website: www.wrseta.org.za
Let this be the year you take action. With support from W&RSETA, you can build the skills that open doors—whether you’re starting fresh or growing within the industry. Apply, learn, and grow into your future.