You do not need Matric for this one. EduPower Skills Academy has opened its 2026 learnership to unemployed South Africans with Grade 11 or Grade 12, paying a monthly stipend of R5,500 while you train towards an accredited qualification. Opportunities are available in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town, and you can apply online in minutes or visit an EduPower recruitment centre. No closing date has been published, so the sooner you submit, the better your chances.
About the Programme
EduPower Skills Academy is one of South Africa’s established learnership providers, training thousands of unemployed young people each year in partnership with corporate sponsors. Its programmes combine classroom-based learning with practical workplace exposure, so learners finish with both an accredited qualification and real experience they can show employers.
What makes this programme stand out is its accessibility. Many learnerships demand Matric with specific subjects and marks. EduPower accepts candidates with Grade 11, which opens the door for young people who never finished school but still want a recognised qualification and a foothold in the working world. EduPower has not announced the programme duration or the qualification title in the current advertisement; shortlisted candidates will confirm these details during recruitment.
What You Will Get
- A monthly stipend of R5,500 for the duration of the programme
- An accredited qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework
- Structured classroom training with qualified facilitators
- Practical workplace experience with real responsibilities
- Communication, teamwork and time-management skills
- A stronger CV and better future employment prospects
Who Can Apply
- Unemployed South African citizens
- Grade 11 or Grade 12 completed
- Able to attend training and workplace activities in Durban, Johannesburg or Cape Town
- Committed to full participation in classroom and workplace development
- A positive attitude towards learning
No age limit is stated in the advertisement. People living with disabilities are encouraged to apply, and the application form makes provision for disability information.
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Required Documents
- Updated CV (PDF format recommended)
- Copy of your South African ID document
- Grade 11 or Grade 12 certificate
- Latest academic results, where applicable
- Any additional documents requested during recruitment
How to Apply
- Prepare your CV and scan your documents clearly.
- Open the official EduPower learner application portal using the link below.
- Complete all personal details: name, ID number, contact information and education level.
- Select your education level (Matric or Grade 11) and answer the disability questions.
- Upload your documents where requested.
- Review your information and submit. Keep your phone on; EduPower contacts candidates directly.
Closing Date
EduPower has not published a closing date for the 2026 learnership. Applications may close once enough suitable candidates have applied, so submit yours immediately.
Why It Matters
Millions of young South Africans are shut out of opportunities because they never completed Matric. Programmes that accept Grade 11 are rare, and programmes that accept Grade 11 while paying R5,500 a month are rarer still.
That stipend covers transport, meals and data, the three costs that force many learners to drop out of free programmes. An accredited qualification also restarts your education journey: it proves to employers that you can complete formal training, and it can ladder into further NQF qualifications later. If you left school early and feel stuck, this learnership is a genuine second chance in three of South Africa’s biggest cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I only have Grade 11?
Yes. EduPower accepts candidates who completed Grade 11 or Grade 12. This is one of the few paid learnerships open to people without Matric.
How much is the stipend and when is it paid?
The advertised stipend is R5,500 per month for the duration of the programme. Payment arrangements are confirmed when you are placed.
Which cities can I work in?
Opportunities are listed in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town. Choose the city where you can reliably attend every day, as relocation support is not offered.
How long is the learnership?
EduPower has not stated the duration in the advertisement. Most accredited learnerships run for 12 months, but confirm the exact period during recruitment.
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