The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) is running a Labour Activation Programme (LAP) for 2025–2026, offering a learnership in Wholesale & Retail designed for unemployed youth aged 18–28. This is a rare chance to gain both accredited skills and real workplace experience, making it ideal for those who want to launch a career in one of South Africa’s most active industries.
About the UIF and Its Learnership Programme
The UIF is more than just a financial safety net: it’s a vital part of South Africa’s social security infrastructure, providing short-term financial relief to people who become unemployed or face life changes like illness or parental leave. But the UIF goes further. Through its Labour Activation Programme, it offers training that helps individuals build practical skills, get real work experience and earn qualifications — a win-win for economic stability and personal growth.
What the Learnership Entails
The UIF LAP Wholesale & Retail Learnership is structured to blend theory and practice. It includes formal training in a classroom or digital setting alongside practical, on-the-job exposure within a wholesale or retail environment. Under the mentorship of experienced training professionals, learners build their knowledge and confidence, apply what they’ve learned, and grow into productive, skilled professionals ready for long-term employment.
Over the 12 months, the programme helps learners develop:
- Key wholesale and retail knowledge
- Practical industry-relevant skills
- Professional habits through real workplace involvement
- A recognised qualification that boosts employability
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Who Should Apply: Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this learnership, you must:
- Be a South African citizen aged between 18 and 28
- Be unemployed and not currently in another learnership or internship
- Have previously contributed to the UIF
- Hold at least a Grade 11 qualification
- Be motivated to develop practical skills within the wholesale & retail sector
- Be available on a full-time basis for 12 months
- Have access to a smart device (for online components)
- If you have a disability, you are encouraged to apply
Application Requirements
When applying, you’ll need to submit:
- Certified copy of your South African ID (not older than 2 months)
- Certified copy of your highest qualification (Grade 11 or higher, not older than 2 months)
- Updated CV
- Proof of residential address
- Medical certificate (only if applying under disability criteria)
- SARS letter
How to Apply
You must apply online via the official application portal:
UIF LAP Wholesale & Retail Learnership Application Form
Application Tips:
- Use Google Chrome for the best experience
- Complete the form carefully; any incorrect or missing information could disqualify you
- After submitting, make sure you complete all verification steps
- Do not send your application via email, fax or hand delivery — only online applications will be accepted
By applying, you agree to have your personal data processed for application verification.
Important Notes
- This learnership is exclusively for UIF contributors who are currently unemployed.
- The UIF has the final say in shortlisting and does not guarantee a job placement after completion.
- Applications will only be accepted via the official learning portal; no alternative submission methods are allowed.
- Decisions made by the selection committee are final.
Why This Learnership Matters
For young South Africans who are struggling to find work, this UIF LAP learnership is a life-changing opportunity. It offers:
- Accredited training + real-world experience
- A chance to build a professional network
- A pathway into the wholesale and retail sector
- Skills that are relevant, demanded, and transferrable
If you’re ready to invest in your future, this learnership gives you the tools and support to grow — financially, personally, and professionally.
Conclusion
The UIF LAP Wholesale and Retail Learnership 2025–2026 is a valuable opportunity for unemployed South African youth who want to gain practical skills, real work experience and a recognised qualification. With its combination of structured training and hands-on learning, the programme helps young people become more employable and confident as they enter the job market. If you meet the requirements and are ready to commit to a full 12-month learning journey, submitting your application early gives you the best chance of being considered. This learnership can be a powerful stepping stone toward long-term career growth in the wholesale and retail sector.
