If you are an unemployed young South African dreaming of a career in tech, WeThinkCode_ is offering one of the best free opportunities in the country right now. The WeThinkCode_ Coding Learnership 2026 gives you world-class software development training at no cost, a monthly needs-based stipend, and a direct pipeline to jobs with leading employers. You do not need matric or any coding experience to apply. Places fill up fast and selection is first-come, first-served, so apply as early as you can.
About the Programme
WeThinkCode_ is a leading South African non-profit tech academy created to close the country’s digital skills gap and open the world of software development to young people who would never otherwise afford it. Tuition is fully sponsored by more than 65 corporate partners, including some of the biggest names in banking, telecommunications and technology, who actively recruit graduates straight out of the programme.
WeThinkCode_ runs campuses in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban and uses a peer-to-peer, project-based learning model with no formal lecturers, which means you learn by solving real problems alongside other students. For young South Africans locked out of expensive universities, this programme is a genuine second chance to build a high-earning, future-proof career.
What You Will Learn
- Software development fundamentals and computational thinking
- Multiple in-demand programming languages and frameworks
- Practical problem-solving through real coding projects
- Peer programming, teamwork and agile ways of working
- Workplace readiness and professional skills for the tech industry
- A monthly needs-based stipend to support you during training
- Free tuition fully covered by corporate sponsors
- Mentorship and the chance to be placed with a partner employer
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- South African citizens with a valid ID, or holders of a valid passport with a work permit or asylum-seeker permit
- Aged between 17 and 35 years
- Currently unemployed and not studying full-time elsewhere (this is a full-time programme)
- No prior coding qualification or experience required
- No matric certificate required – the programme uses online aptitude tests instead of academic results
- A strong passion for technology and problem-solving
- Able to attend full-time at a Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban campus
RELATED: Browse more Learnerships on Nasi Ispani.
Required Documents
- Certified copy of your South African ID (or passport with a valid permit)
- An up-to-date CV
- Your highest school qualification or matric certificate, if you have one
- Proof of residential address
- Any additional documents confirmed during the application process
How to Apply
- Visit the official WeThinkCode_ application portal and create your profile.
- Fill in your personal and contact details accurately.
- Complete the online aptitude tests and coding games – these measure your potential, not your past marks.
- If you pass, you will be invited to a selection Bootcamp where your skills are assessed further.
- Successful Bootcamp candidates are enrolled into the full-time programme.
Closing Date
Applications for the WeThinkCode_ Coding Learnership 2026 are open now and close once all Bootcamp places are filled. Selection works on a first-come, first-served basis, so apply as early as possible. No late or incomplete applications will be considered.
Why It Matters
South Africa has one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world, with more than half of young people unable to find work. At the same time, employers are crying out for skilled software developers and are willing to pay well for them. The WeThinkCode_ Coding Learnership removes the two biggest barriers young people face: cost and entry requirements. You do not pay a cent, you do not need matric, and you earn a stipend while you learn. For a young person from a low-income household, completing this programme can mean the difference between long-term unemployment and a stable, well-paid career in one of the fastest-growing industries on the planet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need matric or coding experience to apply?
No. WeThinkCode_ selects students using online aptitude tests rather than academic results, and no previous coding experience is required.
Will I get paid during the programme?
Yes. Students receive a needs-based monthly stipend to help cover basic costs while they train full-time.
Which cities is the programme offered in?
WeThinkCode_ has campuses in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. You must be able to attend full-time at one of these campuses.
What happens after I finish?
Graduates are connected to WeThinkCode_’s network of more than 65 corporate partners who recruit developers, giving you a strong chance of landing a tech job.
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