Global Learning Institute 2025 Internship: Discover Learnerships, Apprenticeships & WIL Opportunities
CareerHub invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their learning and work‑based programme vacancies. The closing date for applications is 31 October.
In South Africa, a lot of young people miss out on good chances because they mix up programs that look alike but have different goals.
Learnerships, internships, apprenticeships, in‑service training, and Work‑Integrated Learning (WIL) all mix study with real job time, but they are not the same. This guide breaks each one down in plain English so you can pick the right fit for your level, qualifications, and career dreams.
Why Knowing the Difference Matters
Choosing the wrong program can cost you time, money, and a clear path forward:
- Applying when you’re not eligible
- Delaying graduation or a job start
- Losing out on a stipend or a recognised qualification
- Spending a year in a program that doesn’t help your career
When you understand the details, you can apply strategically and move your career step by step.
1. Learnerships
What is a learnership?
A learnership is a formal training program that blends classroom theory with on‑the‑job experience. It ends with a national qualification.
- Classroom learning + workplace training
- Usually lasts about 12 months
- Includes a monthly stipend
- Open to unemployed youth and sometimes to people already working
- Requires a signed learnership agreement
Who should apply?
- School leavers (Grades 10–12)
- Unemployed young people looking for a certificate
- Those wanting a recognised qualification before starting a job
Examples:
- Customer Service Learnership (NQF Level 4)
- Business Administration Learnership
- IT Technical Support Learnership
2. Internships
What is an internship?
An internship gives practical work experience to graduates or diploma holders. It usually does not award a new qualification.
- Focus on hands‑on work in a real job setting
- Runs 12–24 months
- Often includes a stipend
- Requires a finished diploma or degree
Who should apply?
- TVET college graduates
- University graduates
- Young professionals who need real work time
Examples:
- HR Graduate Internship
- Finance Internship
- Public Administration Internship
3. Apprenticeships
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a trade‑focused program that mixes technical learning with long‑term hands‑on work, finishing with a trade test.
- Leads to a trade qualification
- Strong emphasis on manual and technical skills
- Runs 2–4 years
- Includes a stipend or wage
Who should apply?
- Youth interested in artisan jobs
- Those with maths and science backgrounds
- People who enjoy working with their hands
Examples:
- Electrician Apprenticeship
- Boilermaker Apprenticeship
- Fitter & Turner Apprenticeship
- Welder Apprenticeship
4. In‑Service Training
What is in‑service training?
In‑service training is a required work period for many TVET college programs. It is not optional; it is needed to finish a qualification.
- Must be completed to graduate
- Usually lasts 6–18 months
- May be paid or unpaid
- No new qualification is earned— it completes the one you’re already studying for
Who should apply?
- TVET students who need workplace exposure to graduate
Example:
- Engineering students needing 18 months of in‑service training
5. Work‑Integrated Learning (WIL)
What is WIL?
WIL is similar to in‑service training but more common at universities and technical colleges. It is built into the curriculum and is required for some degrees.
- Part of a formal curriculum
- Required for completing a qualification
- Duration varies by institution
- May be paid or unpaid
Who should apply?
- University students
- University of Technology students
- Students whose course requires WIL
Examples:
- Teaching Practice WIL
- ICT WIL Placement
- Marketing WIL Programme
Side‑by‑Side Comparison
| Programme | Qualification? | Paid? | Who it’s for | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Learnership | Yes – National Qualification | Yes | Unemployed youth | ~12 months |
| Internship | No new qualification | Usually | Graduates | 12–24 months |
| Apprenticeship | Yes – Trade Certificate | Yes | Artisan trainees | 2–4 years |
| In‑Service Training | No (completes existing course) | Sometimes | TVET students | 6–18 months |
| WIL | No (completes existing course) | Sometimes | University students | Varies |
Which Programme Is Right For You?
Choose a learnership if you:
- Don’t yet have a qualification
- Want a nationally recognised certificate
- Need both classroom theory and on‑the‑job practice
Choose an internship if you:
- Already hold a diploma or degree
- Need real work experience to land a job
Choose an apprenticeship if you:
- Want a hands‑on trade or artisan career
- Enjoy building things and learning technical skills
Choose in‑service training or WIL if you:
- Are studying for a TVET or university qualification that requires workplace exposure
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for internships without a finished degree or diploma
- Looking for learnerships when your course actually requires WIL
- Assuming every program will give you a permanent job after it ends
- Ignoring the eligibility rules for each type of program
How CareerHub Helps You Prepare
We don’t just list jobs—we give you the tools to win them.
Career Growth Path After These Programs
Most people move on to:
- Permanent employment
- Higher qualifications
- Artisan certification
- Graduate development programmes
- Starting their own business, especially in trades
Important Questions Before You Apply
- Do I need a new qualification or just work experience?
- Is this program required for my studies?
- Will it help me get a job sooner?
Ask these questions, read the details, and then apply with confidence. Build your career purposefully.
Ready to start? Apply now and find the right path for you.
