Two IQbusiness learnership opportunities are now open for people living with disabilities, giving eligible candidates a structured route into technology through accredited training, workplace experience and a monthly allowance. For applicants who want to build real digital skills, these programmes offer a practical first step into IT and data careers.
The available programmes are the Systems Development Learnership NQF Level 4 and the Data Science Practitioner Learnership NQF Level 5. Both are 12-month learnerships based in Johannesburg, with applications closing on 30 June 2026.
What is IQbusiness offering in 2026?
IQbusiness is offering two learnership pathways aimed at candidates who want to enter the technology space through formal training and practical workplace exposure.
The programmes are:
- Systems Development Learnership NQF Level 4
- Data Science Practitioner Learnership NQF Level 5
Both opportunities are listed as internship-level programmes and include a monthly allowance.
The strongest part of this opportunity is the combination of training and workplace experience. That matters because many entry-level applicants struggle to get practical exposure before entering the IT sector.
Who should consider the Systems Development Learnership?
The Systems Development Learnership NQF Level 4 is suitable for candidates who are interested in programming, web development and broader IT systems.
This 12-month programme is designed to help learners gain a nationally recognised qualification while developing workplace experience in the technology environment.
Key learning areas include:
- Programming fundamentals
- Web development
- Information systems
- Computer networks
This pathway may suit applicants who enjoy problem-solving, digital tools and the idea of building or supporting software systems.
Who should consider the Data Science Practitioner Learnership?
The Data Science Practitioner Learnership NQF Level 5 is aimed at candidates who want to explore data, reporting, programming and analytical thinking.
This 12-month programme combines accredited training with practical workplace experience in a data-focused environment.
Key learning areas include:
- Data analysis and visualisation
- Introduction to programming for data
- Data management and reporting
- Analytical problem-solving
This pathway may suit applicants who enjoy working with information, spotting patterns and using data to support decisions.
What are the minimum requirements?
Applicants must be South African citizens and must be living with a disability. Both opportunities require Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification, along with minimum marks in English and Mathematics or Mathematics Literacy.
For the Systems Development Learnership, applicants need:
- South African citizenship
- Living with a disability
- Grade 12 / Matric or equivalent NQF Level 3
- English: minimum 50%
- Mathematics: minimum 50%
Alternatively, applicants may qualify with:
- Mathematics Literacy: minimum 60%
- Basic computer literacy
- Strong interest in Information Technology
For the Data Science Practitioner Learnership, applicants need:
- South African citizenship
- Living with a disability
- Grade 12 / Matric or equivalent qualification
- English: minimum 50%
- Mathematics: minimum 50%
Alternatively, applicants may qualify with:
- Mathematics Literacy: minimum 60%
- Diploma or higher qualification
- Basic computer literacy
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: Choose the learnership that matches your strongest interest. If you enjoy coding, websites and systems, Systems Development may be the better fit. If you enjoy numbers, reports and problem-solving, Data Science may be the stronger choice.
Is this a permanent position?
No. These are learnership programmes, not permanent employment.
Successful applicants will enter into a fixed-term learnership agreement. Completion of the programme does not guarantee permanent employment, although the experience and qualification can strengthen a candidate’s future applications.
IQbusiness also states that reasonable accommodation will be considered during the recruitment and selection process.
How can candidates submit their applications?
Applicants should choose the correct programme before submitting their details online.
Applications for the Systems Development programme must be submitted through the official Systems Development online application portal.
Applications for the Data Science Practitioner programme must be submitted through the official Data Science Practitioner online application portal.
The closing date for both opportunities is 30 June 2026.
What should applicants prepare before applying?
Applicants should prepare a clear, updated CV before starting the online application.
It is also useful to have copies of relevant supporting documents ready, especially qualification documents and any information required during the online submission process.
Before submitting, candidates should check that their contact details, education history and disability-related information are accurate.
Small mistakes can delay an application, especially when online forms require exact details.
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Final Thoughts
The IQbusiness learnerships offer a strong opportunity for people living with disabilities who want to enter the technology sector through structured training and workplace exposure.
With pathways in both Systems Development and Data Science, applicants can choose a programme that matches their interests and long-term career goals.
Candidates who meet the requirements should review the programme details carefully and submit their application before the closing date.
