Dis-Chem Pharmacies has opened applications for its Dispensary Support Learnership Programme for 2026, offering young South Africans a direct pathway into the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector. This opportunity is ideal for candidates who want to develop practical pharmacy skills while working toward a recognised Pharmacist Assistant qualification.
Location: Nationwide (South Africa)
Closing Dates: January – February 2026 (varies by store)
About Dis-Chem Pharmacies
Established in 1978, Dis-Chem Pharmacies is one of South Africa’s leading retail pharmacy groups, delivering affordable healthcare, professional pharmacy services, wellness products, and everyday essentials. With stores across the country, Dis-Chem is widely respected for its in-store clinics, trained pharmacists, and commitment to accessible healthcare.
About the Dispensary Support Learnership
The Dispensary Support Learnership prepares learners to complete the Basic Pharmacist Assistant qualification, registered with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC).
Learners will:
- Be employed on a fixed-term learnership contract
- Work under the supervision of a registered pharmacist
- Receive structured learning alongside on-the-job pharmacy training
Upon successful registration with the SAPC, learners may be considered for permanent employment within Dis-Chem Pharmacies.
This programme ensures a strong balance between theoretical knowledge and real dispensary experience.
Key Responsibilities
During the learnership, participants will be trained to:
- Sell Schedule 1 medicines and approved substances
- Assist with the preparation of non-sterile medicines according to SOPs
- Interpret prescriptions accurately under pharmacist supervision
- Pick, pack, label, and check medication for accuracy
- Maintain dispensary cleanliness and merchandising standards
- Manage stock levels, expiry dates, and inventory rotation
- Assist with patient follow-ups and service-related calls
- Support authorisations for chronic, HIV/AIDS, and oncology medication
- Provide basic, approved healthcare information to customers
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Grade 12 (Matric)
- Pure Mathematics
- Physical Science or Life Science
- Minimum 50% overall average
Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Proficiency in English and at least one additional language
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Problem-solving ability and teamwork
- Professional conduct, honesty, and accountability
- Basic computer literacy and numerical skills
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the Dis-Chem Careers platform.
Available Locations & Closing Dates
Location: Castle Gate – Pretoria
Closing date: 23 January 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
Location: Gandhi Square – Johannesburg
Closing date: 20 February 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
Location: Baywest Mall – Gqeberha/Port Elizabeth
Closing date: 31 January 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
Location: Albemarle – Germiston, Gauteng
Closing date: 07 February 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
Location: Cresta – Randburg
Closing date: 06 February 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
Location: Melville – Johannesburg
Closing date: 07 February 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
Location: Ridgeview – Johannesburg
Closing date: 14 February 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
Location: Verdi – Randburg
Closing date: 12 February 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
Location: Wonderpark – Pretoria
Closing date: 11 February 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
Location: Greenfields – East London
Closing date: 30 January 2026
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Location: Jeffrey’s Bay
Closing date: 30 January 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
Location: Riverside Mall – Queenstown
Closing date: 30 January 2026
Apply Online for the Dis-Chem: Dispensary Support Learnership
⚠️ Tip: Ensure your Matric subjects and marks are captured accurately, as these are critical for shortlisting.
Why You Should Apply
This learnership offers:
- A recognised pharmacy qualification
- Hands-on training in a real dispensary environment
- Mentorship from qualified pharmacists
- A structured pathway toward becoming a registered Pharmacist Assistant
- Potential for permanent employment after qualification
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What qualification will I receive?
You will complete the Basic Pharmacist Assistant qualification, registered with the SAPC.
Is this learnership available nationwide?
Yes. Positions are available at selected Dis-Chem stores across South Africa.
Can this lead to permanent employment?
Yes. Learners who successfully qualify may be considered for permanent roles.
Do I need science subjects to apply?
Yes. Pure Mathematics and Physical Science or Life Science are mandatory.
How long is the learnership?
The programme runs on a fixed-term contract aligned with the qualification duration.
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