The National Bioproducts Institute is offering the YES Learnership Programme 2026 to unemployed youth aged 18–34 in Durban. Gain 12 months of pharmaceutical and bioprocessing experience. Apply before 27 November 2025.
National Bioproducts Institute (NBI) YES Learnership Programme 2026
The National Bioproducts Institute (NBI) is inviting South African youth to apply for its Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme for 2026. This opportunity is specifically designed for unemployed young people who want to enter the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, laboratory, engineering, or bioprocessing sectors.
Closing Date: 27 November 2025
This 12-month programme provides hands-on exposure in a world-class biopharmaceutical production environment. It is one of the most valuable pathways for youth who want to build a long-term career in a specialised and highly respected industry. With access to advanced manufacturing operations and experienced professionals, learners gain real skills that are used to produce lifesaving medicines.
Quick Overview
Programme: NBI Youth Employment Service (YES) 2026
Reference Number: NBI250912-1
Job Type: Temporary (12-Month YES Internship)
Department: API Manufacturing
Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Workplace Type: On-site
Minimum Education: Grade 12 with English, Maths, Science and Biology
Age Requirement: 18–34 years
Category: Pharmaceutical
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About the National Bioproducts Institute (NBI)
The National Bioproducts Institute is a leading African biopharmaceutical manufacturer responsible for producing plasma-derived therapeutic proteins and diagnostic products. The organisation plays a vital role in the healthcare system by supporting the country’s need for plasma-based medicines that improve and save lives.
NBI is known for maintaining exceptionally high manufacturing standards, driven by its purpose to alleviate pain and suffering. The institute invests heavily in innovation, patient-centred technology, and talent development. Through its YES Learnership, NBI continues empowering young people and strengthening skills development within the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors.
About the NBI YES Programme 2026
The NBI YES Programme exposes unemployed youth to practical work experience across several bioprocessing units. Throughout the 12-month period, learners work alongside Fractionators, Process Technicians and Pooling Technicians who guide them through complex manufacturing processes.
Learners gain direct exposure to operations involved in producing plasma-derived medicines—an opportunity rarely found outside of specialised biopharmaceutical facilities. This makes the programme an important stepping stone for those who want to grow in laboratory environments, biotechnology operations or highly technical production fields.
Minimum Requirements
To apply for the NBI YES Learnership Programme, applicants must meet the following:
Essential Requirements
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be between 18–34 years
- Must be currently unemployed
- Not enrolled in full-time studies
- Grade 12 with at least a D symbol in English, Maths, Science and Biology
- Must commit to the full 12-month programme
- Must not have previously participated in a YES Programme
- Maximum of 2 years’ work experience
Added Advantage
(These increase your chances but are not compulsory)
- Pharmacist Assistant Training (PAT): Basic or Post-Basic
- Tertiary qualification in:
- Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Microbiology
- Life Sciences
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry
Duties and Responsibilities
Learners will support NBI’s production teams in several operational areas. Duties include:
Safety, Health and Environmental (SHE) Responsibilities
- Attend compulsory pre-employment, routine and exit medicals
- Participate in all mandatory SHE training
- Follow strict SHE rules and organisational safety procedures
- Wear and maintain appropriate PPE
- Comply with OSH Act requirements
- Handle hazardous and biologically active chemicals safely
Operational Responsibilities
Depending on their assigned unit, learners may work:
- 12-hour shifts (06:00–18:00 or 18:00–06:00), or
- 8-hour shifts within the timeframe of 06:00–18:00
They may also be required to:
- Work weekends and public holidays
- Work overtime when necessary
- Perform tasks in a cleanroom environment
Technical Tasks
Learners will support technical teams with:
- Equipment preparation and maintenance
- Sampling and basic quality checks
- Completing documentation according to SOP standards
- Cleanroom hygiene and adherence to strict protocols
- General production support throughout manufacturing cycles
Core Competencies Needed
The ideal candidate should show:
- Personal leadership and responsibility
- Ability to collaborate and build strong working relationships
- Good teamwork and interpersonal skills
- Commitment to accuracy and quality
- Understanding of business impact and operational discipline
- Willingness to learn, adapt and grow
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified Matric certificate
- Any tertiary qualification certificates (if applicable)
- Proof of PAT qualification (if applicable)
APPLY FOR THE NATIONAL BIOPRODUCTS INSTITUTE (NBI) YES LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME HERE
Conclusion
The NBI YES Learnership Programme 2026 offers a powerful opportunity for young South Africans who want to start a career in bioprocessing, pharmaceuticals or laboratory operations. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and the guidance of industry professionals, learners gain meaningful experience that opens doors to future employment. Anyone who meets the requirements and is committed to developing their skills is encouraged to apply before the closing date.
