Proserv South Africa has opened applications for its Wholesale & Retail Operations Learnership (NQF Level 2) for 2026, offering a paid, structured pathway into the retail sector for persons with disabilities. This opportunity is designed to support inclusion, skills development and real workplace exposure within one of South Africa’s largest employment sectors.
This is not a short course or unpaid training programme. It is a 12-month paid learnership that combines accredited training with practical retail experience, helping learners build confidence, skills and employability while earning a monthly stipend.
If you are unemployed, live in Johannesburg or Pretoria, and have valid proof of disability, this learnership could be the opportunity that opens the door to long-term employment.
About the Wholesale & Retail Operations Learnership (NQF Level 2)
The Wholesale & Retail Operations Learnership is aligned with the Wholesale and Retail SETA (W&RSETA) and leads to a nationally recognised qualification. It is designed for individuals who want to enter the retail sector for the first time and gain practical, job-ready skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.
The programme introduces learners to the daily operations of retail and wholesale workplaces, preparing them for entry-level roles across stores, distribution centres and wholesale businesses.
Why This Learnership Matters
The wholesale and retail sector is one of the biggest employers of entry-level workers in South Africa. However, many persons with disabilities are excluded due to limited access to inclusive training, workplace exposure and skills development.
This learnership directly addresses those barriers by offering:
Formal, SETA-aligned training
Real workplace exposure
A monthly stipend
Inclusive support and mentorship
Clear pathways toward employment after completion
Because the qualification is nationally recognised, it is valued by employers across the retail and wholesale industry.
About Proserv South Africa
Proserv South Africa is a recognised skills development and training provider with a strong focus on inclusive workforce development. Their programmes are aligned with South Africa’s B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice and are designed to support employment equity and real job placement.
Proserv works closely with employers to ensure that training is relevant, accredited and aligned with industry needs. Their disability-focused programmes are structured to provide appropriate support, workplace adaptation and mentorship throughout the learnership period.
What You Will Learn During the Programme
The learnership covers essential retail and wholesale operations, including:
Customer service and client interaction
Stock control and inventory support
Merchandising principles
Point-of-sale operations
Workplace communication
Health and safety practices
Teamwork and professionalism
No previous retail experience is required, making this programme suitable for first-time entrants into the sector.
Stipend and Programme Duration
Learners receive a monthly stipend of R3 800 for the full 12-month duration of the programme. While the stipend is not a salary, it helps cover transport, basic living costs and daily participation expenses, allowing learners to focus on training and workplace experience.
Who Can Apply
To be considered, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
Be a Black South African as defined by B-BBEE Codes
Be between 22 and 30 years old
Be currently unemployed
Have never completed or enrolled in a Wholesale & Retail qualification before
Have passed Grade 11 or Grade 12
Live in or around Johannesburg or Pretoria
Have a valid proof of disability issued by a licensed medical specialist
Applicants who do not meet all requirements may not be considered.
Documents Required
All applications must include the following compulsory documents:
Updated CV with current residential address
Certified copy of South African ID (not older than three months)
Certified Grade 11 or Grade 12 certificate (not older than three months)
Valid proof of disability from a licensed medical specialist
Incomplete applications or missing documents will result in automatic disqualification.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via email.
Send your application to: potego@proserv.co.za
Use the following subject line exactly as written:
W&R L2 GP Application
Attach all required documents in clear, well-named PDF files. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as opportunities of this nature are limited and can fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
The Proserv South Africa Wholesale & Retail Operations Learnership 2026 offers more than just training. It provides dignity through paid participation, practical skills, accredited learning and a real chance to enter the retail job market.
For unemployed persons with disabilities who want to gain recognised skills and workplace experience in Johannesburg or Pretoria, this learnership represents a meaningful step toward inclusion, independence and long-term career growth.
