South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis is getting worse, and the I&J Yes4Youth Learnership 2026 could be the practical step you need right now to get into work.
What is the I&J Yes4Youth Learnership 2026?
This is a 12‑month work‑based programme run by AVI Limited’s seafood arm, I&J, at its Cape Town harbour facility. It is part of the government’s Yes4Youth push, but it is not a traditional learnership that awards a qualification. Instead, you will be placed in a real operational environment and paid a stipend (amount not disclosed).
- Closing date: 30 April 2026
- Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
- Duration: 12 months
- Age range: 18–34 years
Who can apply?
The programme is open to unemployed South Africans who have at least a Grade 10 certificate. You must not be enrolled in another government‑funded learnership or training scheme, and you cannot have taken part in a previous Yes4Youth placement.
In short, you need:
- Unemployment status
- Age 18–34
- Completed Grade 10 (or higher)
- Valid South African ID
What will you gain?
During the 12 months you will work side‑by‑side with experienced staff. You will see how a commercial seafood operation runs from start to finish. Skills you can expect to develop include:
- Production and processing workflows
- Quality‑control and safety procedures
- Team communication and punctuality
- Basic workplace IT and record‑keeping
These are practical, transferable abilities that employers value more than a paper qualification.
How to apply
- Save the WhatsApp number 060 011 9717 on your phone.
- Send the word “HI” to that number.
- Follow the automated prompts to upload the required documents.
- Complete the online form at the official portal: I&J Yes4Youth Learnership 2026 application.
If you have questions, you can call the I&J Learning & Development Department using the office numbers provided in the WhatsApp chat.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check every document is a certified copy (ID, qualification, tax statement, bank details).
- Use a clear, up‑to‑date CV that highlights any previous work, even informal or volunteer experience.
- Write a short cover note that shows you understand the seafood industry and are eager to learn.
- Submit all files before the 30 April deadline – late applications are not considered.
- Make sure your WhatsApp number is active and can receive the verification messages.
Final thoughts
The I&J Yes4Youth Learnership 2026 does not give you a formal certificate, but it does give you real‑world experience that many employers struggle to find in fresh graduates. It is a solid first step into a structured work environment, especially if you have struggled to get your foot in the door before.
Take the time to gather your documents, follow the application steps carefully, and send your WhatsApp request soon. This could be the launchpad you need to build a lasting career in South Africa’s growing food‑production sector.