Are you a young South African looking to kick-start your career in transport and logistics? Transnet is now accepting applications for its 12-Month Sector Specific Trainee Programme at the Ngqura terminal. This learnership is a paid training opportunity where you will learn how ports work from the inside. You will get real work experience, learn to operate equipment, handle cargo, and understand how one of the biggest ports in the country runs day to day. The programme is meant for people who just finished Matric or have a TVET N6 in Logistics or Transport. If you want to build a real career and not just sit in a classroom, this could be the right fit for you.
What Is This Programme About?
The Transnet Learnership 2026 is a Work Integrated Learning programme. That means you will not just be reading books or watching videos. You will actually be at the port, doing real tasks, and learning from people who have been doing this job for years.
The programme runs for 12 months. During that time, you will be placed in different areas of the port depending on what you studied, what you want to do, and what the company needs. The goal is to train you so that you can handle real responsibilities and possibly get a permanent job at the end.
This is not just about getting a certificate. It is about learning skills that employers actually want.
Why Should You Consider This Learnership?
There are a lot of reasons why this programme stands out. Here are some of the main ones:
- You will work in a real port environment and see how things actually run
- You will get proper training with supervisors who guide you along the way
- You will meet people who work in the industry and can help you grow
- If you do well, you might get offered a permanent job at Transnet
- You will learn things that will help you in any logistics or transport job in the future
This is not one of those programmes where you just show up and get a certificate. You will be expected to work, learn, and improve.
Where Is the Programme Based?
The programme takes place at the Ngqura terminal. This is located in the Nelson Mandela Bay area, near Gqeberha. If you live in that area, you will have a better chance of getting selected because the company wants learners who can easily get to work every day.
Ngqura is one of the busiest container ports in South Africa. Working there will give you experience that you can use anywhere in the country.
What Will You Be Doing?
As a learner, you will have real tasks to complete. These are not made-up assignments. They are things that workers at the port do every single day.
Here is what you can expect:
- Learn how to operate port machines safely and follow daily work instructions
- Handle cargo according to the proper steps and rules
- Keep records updated and report any problems with equipment right away
- Use radios and computer terminals to stay in touch with your team
- Follow all safety rules at the terminal and know how to use safety gear
- Work with the terminal system called Navis to track tasks and report when you finish
By the end of the programme, you will know how a port works from top to bottom.
Who Can Apply?
Before you apply, make sure you meet these requirements:
- You must have Grade 12 or Matric. Having a TVET N6 in Logistics or Transport is a bonus
- You need a valid Code EB driver’s license
- You should live in or near the Nelson Mandela Bay area
If you check all these boxes, you are good to go.
How to Apply
Applications must be in before 6 February 2026. Do not wait until the last minute. Make sure you have your CV, certified copies of your school documents, and your driver’s license ready before you start.
Click here to apply on the Transnet Talent Portal
It is your job to make sure your application reaches the HR team on time. If they do not get it before the deadline, you will not be considered.
What Will You Gain From This Programme?
Let us be real. A learnership is a lot of work. But the rewards are worth it. Here is what you get out of it:
- Real experience working at one of the biggest transport companies in the country
- Mentors who will teach you and give you feedback
- Training in safety, equipment, and communication
- A chance to move into a full-time job if you perform well
- Connections with people who can help your career in the future
This is the kind of experience that looks good on any CV.
How Is the Training Structured?
The 12 months are broken up into different stages:
- Orientation – You will learn about Transnet, how the port works, and what is expected of you
- Operational Training – You will start working with equipment, handling cargo, and using terminal systems
- Safety Training – You will learn how to stay safe, report problems, and use safety gear
- Mentorship – Senior staff will guide you and give you regular feedback
- Performance Reviews – Your work will be checked throughout the programme to make sure you are on track
This setup makes sure you are not just thrown into the deep end. You will be supported every step of the way.
What Happens After the Programme?
Once you finish, you will have skills that many employers are looking for. If you did well during the programme, Transnet might offer you a permanent job. Even if that does not happen, the experience you gained will help you find work in logistics, supply chain, or transport anywhere in the country.
Why Transnet?
Transnet is a government-owned company that has been around for a long time. They have a strong reputation and are known for training their workers properly. Being part of their learnership tells future employers that you know what you are doing and that you can handle responsibility.
Apply Now
If you are serious about building a career in transport and logistics, this is a solid opportunity. The Transnet Learnership 2026 at Ngqura gives you hands-on training, real work experience, and a chance to grow.
Make sure your application is submitted before 6 February 2026.
