The Eskom Hospitality Learnership 2026 is a structured skills development programme designed to provide unemployed South African youth with practical workplace experience and accredited training in the hospitality and catering environment. Eskom, as a state-owned enterprise, operates multiple training centres, residential facilities, conference venues, and staff canteens across South Africa. These facilities require trained hospitality personnel, creating opportunities for learnerships focused on service, food preparation, and facility support.
This learnership forms part of Eskom’s commitment to skills development, youth empowerment, and employment readiness. Participants are exposed to both theoretical learning and on-the-job training, allowing them to gain industry-relevant skills while working in a professional environment.
About the Eskom Hospitality Learnership
The hospitality learnership is typically offered for a fixed period and combines classroom-based learning with structured practical training at Eskom sites. Learners work under supervision and rotate through different hospitality functions to gain broad exposure to the industry.
The programme is aligned with South African skills development frameworks and is intended to prepare learners for entry-level employment in the hospitality sector. On successful completion, learners gain practical experience that can be used to seek employment in hotels, lodges, catering companies, conference centres, hospitals, mines, and other institutions with hospitality services.
Qualifications Required
To be considered for the Eskom Hospitality Learnership 2026, applicants are generally required to meet the following minimum educational criteria:
- Grade 12 (Matric) certificate
- English as a passed subject (communication skills are essential)
- Hospitality Studies as a school subject is an advantage but not mandatory
- Consumer Studies or Tourism subjects may be beneficial
- Ability to read, write, and understand basic workplace instructions
Applicants with post-school hospitality certificates or short courses may be considered, but the programme is mainly aimed at entry-level candidates who require workplace exposure.
Requirements and Eligibility Criteria
In addition to educational qualifications, applicants must meet several non-academic requirements to be eligible for the learnership:
- South African citizenship
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Age group usually between 18 and 35 years
- Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays
- Physical fitness to perform hospitality duties such as standing for long hours
- Strong hygiene awareness and personal cleanliness
- Good interpersonal and customer service skills
- Ability to work in a team and follow instructions
- No criminal record (background checks may be conducted)
Preference is often given to candidates from local communities where Eskom facilities are located, as well as applicants from designated employment equity groups.
Fields Offered Under the Hospitality Learnership
The Eskom Hospitality Learnership 2026 covers several key fields within the hospitality and catering environment. Learners may be placed in one or more of the following areas:
1. Food Preparation and Catering Support
Learners assist with basic food preparation, portioning, plating, and kitchen operations. This includes learning about food safety standards, hygiene practices, and safe handling of equipment.
2. Food and Beverage Service
This field focuses on serving meals, setting up dining areas, clearing tables, and assisting with refreshments at meetings and events. Learners gain customer service and communication skills.
3. Housekeeping and Facility Cleaning
Learners are trained in cleaning procedures, room preparation, linen handling, and maintaining hygiene standards in accommodation or dining facilities.
4. Hospitality Reception and Front-of-House Support
This area involves welcoming guests, basic reception duties, assisting with bookings, and supporting conference or training facilities.
5. Stores and Stock Control
Learners may assist with inventory management, stock rotation, and basic record-keeping related to catering supplies and equipment.
Skills and Competencies Developed
Throughout the learnership, participants develop both technical and soft skills, including:
- Customer service and communication skills
- Time management and discipline
- Teamwork and workplace professionalism
- Food safety and hygiene awareness
- Basic catering and hospitality operations
- Problem-solving in a service environment
These skills are transferable and valuable across multiple industries, not only hospitality.
Career Opportunities After Completion
After completing the Eskom Hospitality Learnership, learners are better positioned to pursue entry-level roles such as:
- Catering Assistant
- Kitchen Assistant
- Food Service Worker
- Housekeeping Assistant
- Hospitality General Worker
- Canteen or Facilities Support Staff
The experience gained can also be used to apply for further studies, apprenticeships, or advanced hospitality training programmes.
Conclusion
The Eskom Hospitality Learnership 2026 offers a meaningful opportunity for young South Africans to gain practical experience, industry exposure, and employable skills within a structured learning environment. By combining theoretical learning with real workplace training, the programme supports skills development while preparing learners for sustainable employment in the hospitality sector. For individuals interested in service, catering, and hospitality operations, this learnership provides a solid foundation for future career growth.
Closing date
📅 12 January 2026
📧 Direct Application / Contact Email
Additional Contact (if needed)
- Tel: 010 140 3099 – Eskom Careers support line