Explore Transnet’s Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme in Durban — an 18-month opportunity offering hands-on experience.
Introduction: Turning Education into Experience
One of the biggest challenges facing South African graduates today is bridging the gap between classroom theory and workplace experience. Employers seek practical skills and real-world understanding, yet many young people have limited access to structured opportunities that prepare them for professional life.
Transnet’s Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme, based in Durban, is changing that narrative. Designed for students and graduates, this 18-month programme provides participants with the chance to apply their academic knowledge in a professional setting.
It’s not just an internship — it’s a gateway into the world of work. By combining mentorship, structured learning, and hands-on exposure, the programme helps young people become confident, employable, and ready to contribute to South Africa’s economic growth.
What Is the Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme?
The Work Integrated Learning (WIL) initiative is part of Transnet’s broader commitment to youth empowerment and skills development. It forms part of South Africa’s national effort to tackle youth unemployment by offering structured workplace learning aligned with academic qualifications.
Unlike traditional classroom education, WIL places learners in real workplace environments. Participants become part of operational teams, working alongside experienced professionals and contributing to real projects.
This specific Non-Technical Learner Programme focuses on administrative, financial, and support functions — roles that are crucial in any organization but often overlooked in technical training. Learners work in departments such as finance, administration, HR, and logistics, developing essential business and professional skills.
The Purpose Behind the Programme
At its heart, the WIL Non-Technical Learner Programme aims to:
- Equip learners with practical, industry-specific experience.
- Foster professional and interpersonal growth through mentorship.
- Increase employability by developing both hard and soft skills.
- Support Transnet’s mission of creating a sustainable, inclusive workforce.
For many young people, this programme is their first formal work experience. It helps them transition from academic learning to the daily rhythm of a workplace, preparing them for long-term career success.
Programme Structure: 18 Months of Guided Growth
The programme runs for 18 months, during which learners are placed within a specific department under the supervision of trained mentors and managers.
Each participant is expected to:
- Assist in departmental projects and operational activities.
- Perform administrative tasks, such as data entry, documentation, and reporting.
- Participate in workshops and training sessions.
- Collaborate with peers and supervisors on problem-solving initiatives.
- Adhere to company ethics, safety, and professional standards.
Through these activities, learners develop a well-rounded skill set that prepares them for employment — not just at Transnet, but across various industries.
Why Durban? The City of Opportunity
The programme is based in Durban, one of South Africa’s busiest and most economically active cities. As a major port and logistics hub, Durban plays a vital role in the country’s import and export economy.
For learners, this setting offers:
- Exposure to real-world logistics and operational environments.
- Opportunities to interact with diverse professionals.
- Access to a thriving urban centre where business, innovation, and community meet.
Being part of Durban’s economic engine gives learners a strong understanding of how national operations come together at the local level.
Who Can Apply? The Ideal Candidate
The Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme is open to South African citizens aged 18–35 who meet the following requirements:
- A Matric certificate or equivalent.
- An N6 qualification in Finance or a related field.
- No existing bursary obligations with another company.
- A TVET college experiential learning letter.
- Certified copies of the Matric certificate, ID, and academic record.
Preference is given to People with Disabilities, reflecting Transnet’s commitment to inclusion and equity in the workplace.
Essential Competencies and Attributes
Success in this programme depends on more than qualifications. Learners should bring curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn.
Key competencies include:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Basic computer literacy and administrative competence.
- The ability to work well within a team and follow instructions.
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking skills.
- Attention to detail in handling documentation and data.
- A positive attitude, adaptability, and a growth mindset.
Soft skills — such as communication, teamwork, and initiative — are equally important as technical knowledge in today’s professional environment.
A Day in the Life of a Work Integrated Learner
Imagine starting your day at Transnet’s Durban office. You review reports, assist with documentation, and attend a briefing meeting with your supervisor. Afterward, you join a team session to discuss process improvements. Later, you attend a workshop on customer service or compliance.
Every day is different — and every task teaches you something new. Whether you’re helping with data capture, supporting procurement processes, or attending internal training, you’re learning how a large organization operates.
The structure ensures that every learner experiences both routine tasks and strategic exposure, balancing learning and productivity.
What Learners Gain from the Programme
The benefits of the Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme go far beyond a certificate of participation. Graduates emerge with:
- Hands-on work experience aligned with their academic field.
- Professional networks and mentorship connections.
- Improved confidence, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
- A deep understanding of corporate ethics and workplace culture.
- A competitive edge when applying for permanent roles.
These outcomes make graduates more attractive to employers and better prepared to navigate South Africa’s competitive job market.
Mentorship and Guidance: Learning from the Best
Each learner is assigned a mentor or supervisor who provides support, feedback, and guidance throughout the programme. This mentorship element is crucial, as it bridges the gap between theory and practice.
Mentors help learners:
- Set professional goals.
- Reflect on performance and growth.
- Understand workplace dynamics.
- Build self-confidence and accountability.
For many learners, this mentorship experience becomes one of the most transformative aspects of the programme.
Soft Skills: The Hidden Curriculum
In addition to technical exposure, the programme emphasizes soft-skill development. Participants learn:
- Effective communication — how to write reports, emails, and presentations.
- Time management — balancing multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Team collaboration — working respectfully in diverse groups.
- Ethical decision-making — acting with honesty and professionalism.
These transferable skills are essential for long-term employability, regardless of the industry.
Inclusivity and Equal Opportunity
Transnet and its Port Terminals Division are committed to Employment Equity. This means that the programme prioritizes representation from South Africa’s designated groups — including women, youth, and people with disabilities.
This inclusivity ensures that the workplace reflects the country’s diversity, fostering fairness, innovation, and equal access to opportunity.
By empowering people from different backgrounds, Transnet not only builds stronger teams but also contributes to the nation’s transformation goals.
Safety, Ethics, and Professional Conduct
As part of South Africa’s major logistics network, Transnet upholds strict safety and ethical standards. Learners are trained in:
- Occupational health and safety.
- Data protection and confidentiality.
- Workplace ethics and anti-discrimination practices.
This holistic approach ensures that learners don’t just gain skills — they also understand the values and responsibilities that come with professional roles.
Challenges and Rewards
Like any real-world experience, the WIL programme comes with challenges — managing time, adapting to new expectations, and learning to communicate professionally.
But each challenge brings growth. Learners leave with a sense of pride and readiness that can’t be gained from textbooks alone.
For many, this programme is the turning point — the moment they realize they can shape their own future through hard work and determination.
The Bigger Picture: Supporting South Africa’s Development Goals
Work Integrated Learning initiatives like this one are more than just training programmes — they are part of a national strategy to develop young talent, reduce unemployment, and enhance productivity.
By investing in skills development, Transnet contributes directly to South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) goals and the vision of a knowledge-driven economy.
Each learner who graduates from the programme adds to the country’s pool of skilled professionals, driving innovation and growth in both the public and private sectors.
Tips for Applicants
If you’re planning to apply, here are some tips to strengthen your application:
- Prepare all your documents — include certified copies of your qualifications and ID.
- Write a strong motivational letter explaining why you’re interested in the programme.
- Show your willingness to learn — highlight soft skills, teamwork, or community projects.
- APPLICATION PROCESS
- Meet the deadline — applications close on 09 October 2025.
- Be professional — attention to detail matters even in your application.
Remember, this is your opportunity to make a strong first impression on one of South Africa’s most respected companies.
Why Apply? The Value of Early Career Experience
Many graduates hesitate to take on entry-level training positions, but the truth is that structured workplace experience is invaluable.
The Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme gives you:
- A head start in understanding corporate culture.
- The ability to apply classroom learning in practical settings.
- Real achievements to list on your CV.
- Confidence to approach future job interviews.
Every professional starts somewhere — and this programme offers a meaningful, structured, and empowering beginning.
Conclusion: Building Futures, One Learner at a Time
The Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme in Durban embodies Transnet’s commitment to youth empowerment, inclusion, and skills development.
It’s not just about employment — it’s about transformation, learning, and opportunity. Participants gain the tools, experience, and mindset needed to thrive in today’s competitive world of work.
For young South Africans eager to turn potential into performance, this programme is a stepping stone toward lifelong success.
Applications are open until 09 October 2025 — a chance for motivated, curious, and hardworking individuals to join a legacy of excellence and build the foundation for a strong career.