The Pharmacist Assistant Learnership 2026 is now open in the Western Cape. The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is recruiting young people to join the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Pharmacist Assistant Learnership, which offers paid training and work experience in public health facilities.
This opportunity is ideal for unemployed youth who want to build a career in pharmacy, healthcare, or hospital services while gaining an accredited qualification.
Pharmacist Assistant Learnership Programme Details
- Programme: Pharmacist Assistant Learnership / Learner Pharmacist’s Assistant
- Reference Number: ECSS29/2029
- Number of Posts:
- 39 posts (Metro)
- 26 posts (Rural)
- Employment Type: Contract
- Duration: 12 months + possible 12-month extension
- Stipend: R5 345.75 per month
- Department: Medicine Management, Laboratory and Blood Services Support
- Closing Date: 27 March 2026
- Contact: Mr M Hannies – (021) 815-8760
The programme is offered through the Expanded Public Works Programme and training is accredited by the South African Pharmacy Council.
What Is the Pharmacist Assistant Learnership?
The Pharmacist Assistant Learnership allows selected candidates to work in government clinics and hospitals while studying towards a recognised pharmacy qualification.
Successful applicants will:
- Assist pharmacists at public healthcare facilities
- Help with medicine dispensing and stock control
- Support pharmaceutical services for patients
- Receive formal classroom and practical training
- Study through an SAPC-accredited training provider
Training structure:
- First 12 months → Basic Pharmacist Assistant qualification
- Second 12 months → Post-Basic Pharmacist Assistant (based on performance)
After completion, learners may register with the SAPC as a Post-Basic Pharmacist Assistant.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must clearly show the following in their CV:
- Must be between 18 – 35 years old
- Must have Matric / National Senior Certificate
- Must have:
- Mathematics (NOT Maths Literacy)
- Physical Sciences and/or Life Sciences
- OR equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification
- Subject marks must be shown on CV
- Must be willing to work in government health facilities
Mathematics Literacy will NOT be accepted.
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete:
- Competency tests
- Practical assessment
- Integrity / ethics assessment
- Qualification verification
- Criminal record check
- Security clearance
Candidates must bring certified copies of:
- ID
- Qualifications
- Driver’s licence (if required)
- Proof of registration (if applicable)
Documents must not be older than 6 months.
Important Notes
- The department follows Employment Equity principles
- Candidates with disabilities are encouraged to apply
- No payment is required when applying
- Applications that do not meet requirements will not be considered
- A candidate pool may be created for 3 months to fill similar posts
Related: Dis-Chem Dispensary Support Learnerships 2026
Closing Date
27 March 2026 at 17:00
Late applications will not be accepted.

