SASOL Traineeship & Learnership Programme 2026 — The Definitive Career Guide for South African Youth

Looking to start your career with one of South Africa’s most respected global companies? The Sasol Traineeship / Learnership Programme 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity to gain industry-relevant skills, real-world experience, and a stepping stone into the professional world — especially in a job market where experience is often required before you can get a job.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll get everything you need to know about the programme — from eligibility and requirements, to salary insights, how to apply, where it’s based, and what employers are really looking for.

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📌 Overview: Why the Sasol Traineeship Matters in 2026

South Africa’s unemployment rate remains one of the highest globally, especially among youth aged 18–35. Learnerships and traineeships play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic qualifications and practical workplace experience — a key challenge in today’s job market. Sasol’s programme is designed precisely to tackle this gap by offering structured learning aligned to workplace needs.

Sasol is not just any employer — it is a global integrated energy and chemical company with operations in South Africa and internationally. Known for its investment in youth development, Sasol offers traineeships that combine theory, practical training, workplace experience, and professional development all in one structured 12-month programme.

This guide covers:

• 📍 Programme details, requirements & salaries

• 🏁 Step-by-step application process

• 📊 Job market insights & trends

• 🔍 Pros, cons & FAQs

• 📌 Actionable tips for success

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📍 What Is the Sasol Traineeship / Learnership 2026?

Programme Name: Sasol Learnership / Traineeship Programme 2026
Duration: 12 months
Locations: Secunda (Mpumalanga), Sandton (Gauteng), Sasolburg (Free State) — and possibly more based on business needs
Closing Date: Applications typically close on 20 January 2026 — apply early!
Application Portal: Official Sasol Careers site — https://jobs.sasol.com

The programme combines:

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📌 Salary & Financial Outlook

Real salary data for Sasol learnership stipends is not always officially published on the careers portal. However, industry and past learnership data suggest:

💰 Estimated Monthly Stipend (typical learnerships in South Africa):

⚠️ Note: Sasol may adjust stipends each year, and exact figures are usually confirmed during the application interview or offer stage.

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📋 Essential Requirements (Who They Are Looking For)

To qualify for the Sasol Traineeship / Learnership 2026, applicants must typically meet the following minimum criteria:

Who This Programme Is Best For

✔ Recent Matric graduates
✔ Individuals with limited or no experience
✔ People looking to upskill and enter corporate or industrial careers
✔ Youth keen on professional growth and workplace readiness

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📍 Key Dates & Application Links

🧠 Pro Tip: Submit early and double-check your documentation before uploading your application.

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📈 Job Market & Industry Trends (South Africa, 2025–2026)

South Africa’s youth unemployment remains high — currently above 40% for youth ages 15–34*. Learnerships and structured workplace programmes like Sasol’s are strategic tools to improve job readiness and employability.

According to national labor reports and economic forecasts:

• Skills shortages in business administration, technical trades, and digital literacy are predicted to widen through 2026.

• Learnerships & internships are recognized by government and industry as essential pathways to real employment.

• Structured programmes improve employability significantly, with many learners finding opportunities after completion. (Government labor reports & industry guides)

Note: Exact unemployment stats can change year to year — always consult official labour market reports for up-to-date figures.

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💡 Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

✔ Structured training with real workplace experience
✔ Industry-recognized programme with national relevance
✔ Strong base skills that transfer to many careers
✔ Opportunity to build professional networks
✔ Inclusive of people with little or no experience

❌ Cons

✘ No guaranteed placement after completion
✘ Stipend may be modest compared to full salaries
✘ High competition due to popularity

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📌 FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Do I need experience to apply?
A: No — the programme is designed for candidates with 0–1 year of experience.

Q: Will this job automatically lead to full-time employment at Sasol?
A: No — it provides experience and training but does not guarantee permanent employment.

Q: Can I apply with a diploma or degree?
A: Yes — higher qualifications can be an advantage but are not mandatory.

Q: Is this programme only for administrative roles?
A: There are various streams — including business administration, finance support and potentially technical roles depending on business needs.

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📍 How to Apply — Step-by-Step

1. Prepare your documents:

   • Certified Matric certificate

   • Updated CV

   • Certified ID copy

   • Qualification certificates (if any)

2. Visit the Sasol Careers Portal:
   ➤ https://jobs.sasol.com

3. Search for:
   “Learnership 2026”, “Traineeship 2026” or specific programme titles.

4. Create an account and fill in application fields carefully.

5. Submit before deadline:
   10 December 2025.

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🔗 Useful Career Resources

📌 Official Sasol Careers Portal: https://jobs.sasol.com
📊 Government labour statistics: http://www.statssa.gov.za (for unemployment & skills reports)
📘 Career growth guides: South African job boards like Indeed & CareerJunction

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📌 Final Takeaway

The Sasol Traineeship / Learnership Programme 2026 is one of the best structured entry-level opportunities available in South Africa for young talent who want to bridge the critical gap between education and meaningful work. With well-rounded training, practical exposure, professional development, and a recognised corporate brand on your CV, this programme can be a game-changer in your career journey.