MSC is offering a fixed-term learnership for unemployed youth who want to build practical experience in the maritime, transport and logistics industry. With a monthly stipend of R4,000, fully subsidised studies and nationally recognised qualifications across three learning phases, this opportunity could open an important career path for young people ready to commit.
The learnership is based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, and closes on 17 May 2026.
This is not a short once-off course. MSC has designed the programme as a structured three-phase learning journey, combining theory, practical exposure and workplace experience in the maritime industry.
What Is The MSC Learnership About?
The MSC Learnership is aimed at committed and unemployed youth who want to gain theoretical and practical experience in the maritime industry.
The programme gives learners exposure to key areas linked to shipping, international trade, freight forwarding and customs compliance.
It is part of the transport and logistics industry, making it a strong option for young people who are interested in how goods move across borders, ports and shipping networks.
How Does The Three-Phase Programme Work?
MSC has developed a three-phase learnership programme.
Each phase runs for 12 months, and all three phases must be completed one after the other at the same location.
The available phases are:
- Phase 1: National Certificate in International Trade
- Phase 2: National Certificate in Freight Forwarding & Customs Compliance
- Phase 3: Further Education & Training Certificate in Shipping
At the end of each phase, learners can obtain a nationally recognised qualification, including experiential training.
What Makes This Opportunity Valuable?
MSC will fully subsidise the cost of studies.
Learners will also receive a monthly stipend, and stipend amounts are subject to annual increases. Each phase may have a different stipend amount, which will be communicated in advance.
The current listed stipend is R4,000 per month.
There is also an annual bonus opportunity based on meeting the criteria of the learnership, including attendance, assessments and conduct.
Who Can Submit Their Details?
This opportunity is for unemployed youth who meet MSC’s requirements and are ready to commit to a long-term learning programme.
Applicants must be prepared to complete all three phases at the same location.
This is best suited to candidates who are disciplined, reliable and serious about building a future in logistics, freight, customs or shipping.
What Are The Requirements?
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Completed Matric or Matric equivalent
- Minimum of 60% for Mathematics Literacy or 50% for Mathematics, as listed in the opportunity requirements
- Must be computer literate
- Able to use Microsoft Office programmes such as Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint
- Must be below the age of 25
- Must be able to travel to and from MSC operating sites at own cost using the stipend provided
- Previous work experience is required
Applicants should also be hardworking, reliable, methodical and able to communicate well.
What Benefits Are Included?
The MSC Learnership offers several benefits for qualifying learners.
These include:
- Fully subsidised studies
- Monthly stipend of R4,000
- Practical maritime industry exposure
- Nationally recognised qualifications
- Experiential training
- Annual bonus potential
- Structured progression through three learning phases
Learners may receive an annual R5,000 bonus after successful completion of Phase 1, based on meeting the required criteria, including an 80% pass mark on theory and practical components.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: Before submitting, check your Matric results carefully and make sure your Microsoft Office skills are fresh. This opportunity is linked to trade, freight and shipping, so accuracy, communication and reliability can make your profile stand out.
When Is The Closing Date?
The closing date is 17 May 2026.
Applicants should submit their details before the deadline and avoid waiting until the final day.
SA Youth opportunities can receive high interest, and late submissions may not be considered.
How Can Candidates Submit Their Details?
Applications must be submitted through the official SA Youth online application portal.
Candidates should log in, review the full listing, confirm the requirements and make sure their SA Youth profile is updated before submitting.
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Final Thoughts
The MSC Learnership 2026 is a strong opportunity for unemployed youth who want to enter the maritime, transport and logistics space.
With fully subsidised studies, practical workplace exposure, a monthly stipend and nationally recognised qualifications across three phases, this programme offers more than short-term experience.
For applicants under 25 who meet the academic and computer literacy requirements, this could be a valuable step into a specialised industry with long-term growth potential.
