Young South Africans looking to build a rewarding career in international trade, shipping and logistics now have an exciting opportunity to join one of the world’s leading global shipping companies. MSC South Africa has officially opened applications for its 2026 Learnership Programme, offering successful candidates fully funded studies, practical workplace experience, nationally recognised qualifications, monthly stipends and annual performance bonuses.
The programme is available in Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and is designed to equip young people with the knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in South Africa’s growing maritime and logistics industry.
MSC Learnership Programme 2026
MSC runs this learnership every year to provide unemployed youth with structured training and valuable workplace exposure within the maritime and international shipping industry. Participants receive both classroom-based learning and practical work experience while earning recognised qualifications that improve future employment opportunities.
MSC Learnership Programme Overview
| Employer: MSC South Africa
| Programme: Learnership Programme 2026
| Placement: Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria and Gqeberha
| Duration: Three Phases (12 Months Each)
| Qualification: Nationally Recognised Certificates
| Study Costs: Fully Funded
| Stipend: Yes
| Annual Bonus: Performance Based
About MSC
MSC is one of the world’s largest container shipping companies providing transportation and logistics solutions across sea, land and air. The company serves businesses around the globe through an extensive international shipping network while maintaining a strong reputation for customer service, innovation and operational excellence.
MSC is guided by five core values:
- We are a Family Company
- We have Passion
- We are in Continuous Evolution
- We Care for People
- We believe in Equal Opportunities
These values form the foundation of the company’s culture and commitment to developing future professionals.
Learnership Structure
The MSC Learnership Programme consists of three structured phases.
Each phase runs for 12 months and combines theoretical learning with practical workplace experience.
Successful learners receive a nationally recognised qualification after completing each phase.
Phase 1
- National Certificate in International Trade
Learners develop knowledge of:
- International business
- Import and export processes
- Global trade practices
- Shipping documentation
- Trade compliance
- Supply chain fundamentals
Phase 2
- National Certificate in Freight Forwarding and Customs Compliance
Participants gain experience in:
- Freight forwarding
- Customs legislation
- Cargo documentation
- Import and export administration
- Border compliance
- International logistics
Phase 3
- Further Education and Training Certificate in Shipping
Learners receive advanced exposure to:
- Maritime operations
- Shipping administration
- Port operations
- Cargo handling
- Customer service
- Logistics coordination
Benefits of the Programme
MSC offers several valuable benefits throughout the programme.
Successful learners receive:
- Fully funded studies
- Monthly stipend
- Annual performance bonus
- Practical workplace experience
- Nationally recognised qualifications
- Industry mentorship
- Professional skills development
- Career exposure within the shipping industry
This combination of training and workplace experience helps graduates become more competitive in the employment market.
MSC Learnership Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Grade 12 (Matric)
- Minimum C aggregate including Mathematics
- Computer literacy
- Good communication skills
- Reliable and hardworking
- Methodical and organised
- Under 25 years of age
- South African youth from designated groups
Ideal Candidate
MSC is looking for young people who demonstrate:
- Positive attitude
- Strong work ethic
- Attention to detail
- Willingness to learn
- Teamwork
- Professional behaviour
- Problem-solving skills
- Time management
- Adaptability
Important Programme Conditions
Applicants should note the following:
- Learners must complete the programme in the region where they are selected.
- Transfers between regions will not be permitted.
- Performance, attendance, conduct and successful completion of assessments may influence continuation in the programme and eligibility for annual bonuses.
Why Consider a Career in Maritime and Logistics?
South Africa’s logistics and international trade sectors continue to create demand for skilled professionals in shipping, freight forwarding, customs compliance and supply chain management. Completing the MSC Learnership Programme provides valuable workplace experience while building qualifications that are recognised throughout the logistics industry.
Graduates may pursue future careers in:
- Shipping
- Freight Forwarding
- Customs Compliance
- Logistics
- Supply Chain Management
- International Trade
- Import and Export Administration
- Port Operations
- Customer Service
- Transport Management
How to apply for MSC Learnership Programme
Interested applicants should:
1. Visit the official MSC Careers website.
2. Search for the Learnership 2026 opportunity.
3. Complete the online application.
4. Upload all required supporting documents.
5. Submit the application before the closing date if specified.
Early applications are encouraged due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
- South African youth under the age of 25 who meet the minimum requirements.
Is the learnership paid?
- Yes. Successful learners receive a monthly stipend and may qualify for an annual performance bonus.
Which qualifications are awarded?
Participants complete:
- National Certificate in International Trade
- National Certificate in Freight Forwarding and Customs Compliance
- Further Education and Training Certificate in Shipping
Which cities are available?
The programme is offered in:
- Johannesburg
- Durban
- Pretoria
- Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
Are studies funded?
- Yes. MSC fully subsidises the cost of the learnership.
Final Thoughts
The MSC South Africa Learnership Programme 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for young South Africans who want to enter the maritime, logistics and international trade industries. With fully funded studies, recognised qualifications, workplace experience, monthly financial support and mentorship from industry professionals, this programme provides an excellent foundation for a long-term career.
