Hey future go-getter! Are you an unemployed South African youth or graduate looking to kickstart an amazing career journey? Well, guess what – Transnet, one of SA’s biggest and most important state-owned companies, is calling your name! They’re offering incredible Graduate and Trainee Opportunities for 2025/2026 that could be your ticket to real-world experience and professional growth. Think of it as a stepping stone to your dream career, where you gain valuable skills and get paid while you learn!
These aren’t your typical study bursaries, but rather fantastic development programmes designed to give young, talented South Africans like you a massive head start. Transnet offers two main types of programmes:
- Young Professional-in-Training Programme: This is a structured two-year initiative for graduates, providing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience to boost your employability in the logistics and freight sectors.
- Sector Specific Trainee Programme: These 12-month programmes are perfect for developing a talent pipeline for key operational roles within Transnet Port Terminals. You’ll get exposure to logistics, cargo handling, and port operations, especially in crucial coastal areas.
Essentially, Transnet wants to invest in YOU, equipping you with the skills and experience needed to thrive in South Africa’s vital transport and logistics industry.
Who Can Apply?
Transnet is looking for bright, driven individuals who meet specific criteria for each programme. Here’s a breakdown:
General Requirements for All Programmes:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You should be between 18 and 35 years old.
- You must be currently unemployed.
For the Young Professional-in-Training Programme (Johannesburg):
- You need a National Diploma / Diploma / BTech / Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in one of these fields:
- Internal Auditing
- Accounting / BCom Accounting
- Auditing / Taxation / Finance
- Information Management
- Computer Science / Statistics / Mathematics
- No prior work experience is required – perfect for fresh graduates!
- Successful candidates may be placed at various Transnet depots and departments in Bellville, Bloemfontein, Ermelo, Johannesburg, or Ogies.
For the Sector Specific Trainee Programmes (Port Elizabeth, East London, Ngqura):
- You need a Grade 12 / Matric certificate.
- Having a TVET N6 in Logistics or Transport Management is a big advantage!
- For Port Elizabeth and Ngqura, preference is given to candidates from the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.
- For East London, preference is given to candidates from the Buffalo City Municipality.
- Transnet encourages applications from suitably qualified individuals from designated groups, including persons with disabilities, and especially female candidates for the Ngqura programme.
What Does It Cover?
While these are not traditional academic bursaries that cover tuition fees, these Transnet programmes offer something equally valuable: paid practical experience and a stipend! This means you’ll receive financial support during your training period, helping you cover your living expenses while you gain invaluable skills and jumpstart your career without needing prior work experience. It’s an investment in your future, providing a solid foundation for long-term employment within a leading South African company.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump on this incredible opportunity? Here’s how you can apply:
- Choose the specific programme that best suits your qualifications and interests from the options below.
- Click on the dedicated application link for that programme.
- Follow the instructions on the Transnet Talent Portal to complete your application. Make sure to double-check all your details and submit any required documents.
Here are the direct application links:
- Young Professional-in-Training Programme (Johannesburg) – Closing Date: 23 October 2025:
👉 Apply Here! - Sector Specific Trainee – Port Elizabeth – Closing Date: 21 October 2025:
👉 Apply Here! - Sector Specific Trainee – East London – Closing Date: 21 October 2025:
👉 Apply Here! - Sector Specific Trainee – Ngqura – Closing Date: 21 October 2025:
👉 Apply Here!
If this sounds like the perfect launchpad for your career, don’t hesitate! These opportunities can fill up fast, so make sure your application is in before the closing dates. Good luck, and remember to explore more amazing bursaries and career opportunities right here on Bursaries Room!
