Closing date: 23 October 2026 at 16:00. That is only 10 days from today, so start now.
Apply online here: SAHPRA Business Administration Learnership
You can also reach the listing through SAHPRA’s official vacancies page: https://www.sahpra.org.za/vacancies
(Note: you wrote “Leadership Training”, but this opportunity is a learnership, which is a paid training programme that mixes classroom study with real work experience.)
Why this opportunity is worth your time
Many young South Africans hit the same wall. Employers ask for experience, but nobody offers a first chance.
A learnership helps break that cycle. SAHPRA, working with HWSETA, is offering a 12-month programme that combines fully funded theory training with workplace experience, leading toward an NQF Level 4 Business Administration certificate, with a monthly stipend.
After 12 months, your CV could show a recognised qualification and real office experience at a national health regulator. That gives you far more to talk about in an interview.
Programme snapshot
- Organisation: South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA)
- Partner: HWSETA
- Qualification: Further Education and Training Certificate in Business Administration
- NQF level: 4
- Duration: 12 months
- Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
- Stipend: Yes, but the amount is not published
- Closing date: 23 October 2026, 16:00
- How to apply: Online only
Who can apply?
You must have a Matric certificate or an N4, N5 or N6 certificate, be a South African citizen with a valid ID, and be between 18 and 35 years old. You must also:
- Be unemployed
- Not be doing another learnership right now
- Have a clear credit record
- Have no criminal record
- Live in Pretoria
The Pretoria rule matters. Don’t apply on the assumption that you can relocate later.
You do not need a degree or diploma. This makes the programme a good fit for matriculants and TVET college students.
Employment equity preferences
SAHPRA says it is an equal opportunity employer. Its advert gives preference to people with disabilities (who are encouraged to disclose), males of all races, and Coloured and White females. Everyone who meets the requirements can still apply.
How much does it pay?
SAHPRA confirms a monthly stipend, but the advert gives no amount. Ignore figures you see on social media. If you want a number, ask the contact person listed below.
What will you learn?
SAHPRA has not published a module-by-module syllabus. Business administration qualifications generally cover:
- Office administration and support
- Professional communication
- Filing, records and document management
- Basic computer tasks
- Scheduling and coordination
- Workplace policies and conduct
- Teamwork
This is a general list, not SAHPRA’s confirmed curriculum. Ask SAHPRA or the training provider for the real details.
Documents you need
Prepare two combined files.
File 1: Cover letter and CV
- A signed cover letter that names the programme (and reference number, if the portal shows one)
- A detailed CV with at least one referee’s name and email address
File 2: Qualifications and ID
- Your Matric or N4–N6 certificate
- A copy of your South African ID
You do not need certified copies yet. SAHPRA only asks shortlisted candidates for certified copies before interviews.
Suggested file names (these are my suggestions, not SAHPRA rules): Cover_Letter_and_CV.pdf and Qualifications_and_ID.pdf.
Step-by-step: how to apply
- Check you qualify. Go through every requirement above, especially age, residency and credit record.
- Prepare both files. Make sure your CV matches your certificates.
- Open the application link at the top of this article.
- Fill in the form carefully. Use correct personal and contact details.
- Upload your two documents. Check that they are clear and readable.
- Submit before 16:00 on 23 October. Don’t wait until the last hour. Portals get slow when many people apply at once.
- Save your confirmation. Keep any reference number or confirmation email.
Writing a strong cover letter
You don’t need fancy language. Keep it to one page and cover:
- Who you are and what qualification you hold
- Why you want to work in administration
- Why SAHPRA’s work appeals to you (it regulates medicines and medical devices)
- What you can offer: reliability, willingness to learn, basic computer skills, good communication
- A polite closing and your signature (SAHPRA asks for it signed)
CV tips
- Keep it to two pages
- Use a professional email address
- List school subjects if you have no work history
- Include volunteering, school leadership roles or community projects
- Give referees who agreed to be contacted
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying from outside Pretoria
- Applying while enrolled in another learnership
- Skipping the signature on the cover letter
- Leaving out a referee
- Sending your application to the enquiry email (it will be ignored)
- Missing the deadline
Enquiries
Contact Ms K Mabuza, Learning and Development Specialist,. This address is for questions only. Applications sent there are not consistent
What happens after you apply?
SAHPRA says that if you hear nothing within one month of the advert being placed, you should treat your application as unsuccessful. Shortlisted candidates are contacted for interviews.
Is a job guaranteed afterwards?
No. The advert does not promise permanent employment. You still gain a qualification and experience, which help when you apply for jobs such as:
- Administrative assistant
- Receptionist
- Records clerk
- Data capturer
- General office clerk
Beware of scams
SAHPRA does not charge application fees. Never pay anyone who promises you a learnership or interview. Apply only through the official portal.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply with Matric only? Yes.
Can N4, N5 or N6 holders apply? Yes.
Do I need experience? No.
Can I apply from another province? The advert requires Pretoria residency.
Can I apply if I’m in another learnership? No.
Do I need certified documents now? No. Only shortlisted candidates do.
A date discrepancy to be aware of
One website still lists a closing date of 5 September 2026. That looks like a leftover from last year’s intake. The most recent sources all give 23 October 2026 at 16:00. Confirm the date on the live portal when you apply.
Final word
If you meet the requirements, apply now while the portal is open. Prepare your two documents tonight, double-check the details, and submit well before the deadline.
Disclaimer: This guide is based on published information and is not from SAHPRA or HWSETA. The source I used could not independently check the live application page, so confirm all details on the official portal.
Want this as a Word document or PDF you can post or share? I can also write a sample cover letter for this learnership.
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