If you’re a young South African seeking to start a stable and rewarding career in mining or mineral processing, the 2026 Learnership by UMK — the United Manganese of Kalahari — offers an important chance. This initiative is part of UMK’s ongoing commitment to skills development, local employment and youth empowerment in the Northern Cape. Applicants selected for the learnership receive on-the-job training, real industry exposure, and a pathway to permanent employment or skilled roles in mining and mineral-processing plants. SETA SA+2Youth Opportunities Hub+2
UMK is one of South Africa’s major manganese producers. Based in the John Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) District / Joe Morolong Local Municipality region, the company emphasises responsible mining practices, community upliftment and opportunities for local youth through structured learnerships. SETA SA+2Edupstairs+2
What Does the Learnership Include?
✅ Learnership Programmes: Mining & Mineral Processing (18.2)
UMK’s 2026 offering includes two distinct learnership tracks:
- Mining Learnership (18.2) — for candidates interested in the extraction side: drilling, blasting support, excavation, general open-cast mining-related tasks. SETA SA+1
- Mineral Processing Learnership (18.2) — for those inclined to work in processing plants: receiving ore, crushing, screening, sorting and cleaning ore before it’s prepared for further processing or export. SETA SA+2Bigeasydurban+2
For the 2026 intake, UMK has made available 10 Mining Learnership positions and 3 Mineral Processing Learnership positions. SETA SA+1
The programmes offer hands-on, practical training in a real mining or mineral-processing environment — providing valuable industry exposure rather than just theoretical training. Edupstairs+1
Who Can Apply — Eligibility & Requirements
📄 For Mining Learnership
To be eligible:
- Must have completed Matric (Grade 12), with Maths and Science.
- Must be a resident of the John Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) District Municipality or Joe Morolong Local Municipality — the programme is targeted at local community members.
- Must be medically fit and physically able to work in a mining environment.
- Should demonstrate good communication skills, discipline, technical ability, and a willingness to learn and follow safety protocols.
🏭 For Mineral Processing Learnership
For processing-track applicants:
- Minimum requirement is Grade 10 or an equivalent ABET Level 4 qualification.
- Must be resident in the JTG or Joe Morolong municipality.
- Must have basic communication and technical skills, a positive attitude, and be medically fit to work in a processing plant.
No previous mining or processing experience appears to be required. The learnership is specifically designed to give on-the-job training to youth with potential and willingness to learn. Youth Opportunities
Why This Learnership Matters — Benefits & Career Path
🌟 Real Skills + Industry Recognition
Completion of the Mineral Processing learnership includes SETA-accredited training in ore reception, crushing, scrubbing and screening — skills that are transferable across mining and processing plants throughout South Africa.
For the mining track, you receive first-hand experience working in open-cast mines, under supervision, which builds technical, safety, and operational competence — valuable for any mining employer.
🚀 Pathway to Employment & Career Growth
Graduates of the Mining Learnership may qualify for roles such as: General Miner, Blasting Assistant, Equipment Operator, Drilling Operator, Dump Truck Operator, or other entry-level roles in mining operations.
Graduates of the Mineral Processing Learnership may become Plant Attendants, Crushing Plant Operators, Screening or Sorting Technicians, Control Room Operators, or Processing Assistants — with possibility for further growth with experience and extra training.
By entering the mining sector through a structured learnership, you get a foot in the door of one of South Africa’s key industries — which remains one of the largest employers nationwide.
How to Apply — Steps & What to Submit
If you meet the eligibility criteria and wish to apply:
- Prepare a CV, a certified copy of your ID, certified copies of your qualifications (Matric / Grade 10 / ABET Level 4, as applicable), and proof of residence showing you live in JTG District or Joe Morolong Municipality.
- In your email subject line, clearly indicate the learnership type (for example “Mineral Processing Learnership 18.2 – 2026” or “Mining Learnership 18.2 – 2026”).
- Send your application via email to Recruitment@umk.co.za.
Make sure you apply before the deadline — late or incomplete applications are not accepted.
Application Deadline & Important Dates
- The closing date for applications to the 2026 UMK Mining & Mineral Processing Learnership is 16 December 2025.
- Because submissions must be by email and must include certified documents, it’s advisable to apply early to avoid any delays or issues.
If you are reading this close to the deadline — make sure you gather and prepare all documents now, so your application is submitted on time.
Who Should Consider Applying — Ideal Candidate Profile
This learnership is ideal for:
- Young South Africans from the JTG District or Joe Morolong Municipality with limited work experience but strong motivation and willingness to work hard.
- School leavers who completed Matric (for mining track) or at least Grade 10 / ABET Level 4 (for processing track).
- Individuals who may not have tertiary education but want to build a stable, skilled career in mining or mineral processing.
- People ready to work in physically demanding environments and committed to learning safety protocols.
- Those wanting long-term growth, stable employment, and a career in an industry that supports the nation’s economy.
Final Thoughts — Seize the Opportunity
The 2026 United Manganese of Kalahari Mining & Mineral Processing Learnership offers more than a temporary job — it offers a structured pathway into the mining industry, with real training, recognised skills, and potential long-term career growth.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are willing to work hard, this could be the stepping stone to a stable job and a secure future. The fact that UMK prioritises local residents shows their commitment to community empowerment and local development.
EMAIL APPLICATION
Closing Date : 16 December 2025