Apply for the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) Learnership Programme 2026. Young South Africans can gain nationally recognised qualifications, workplace experience, and a monthly stipend in the logistics and shipping industry.
Launch Your Logistics Career with the MSC Learnership Programme 2026
The Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) is inviting young South Africans to apply for its Learnership Programme 2026.
This structured development programme offers participants an opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications while receiving practical workplace experience within the shipping, logistics, and international trade industry.
For many young people, entering the job market can be difficult without practical experience. The MSC Learnership Programme addresses this challenge by combining formal learning with hands-on industry exposure over a three-year period.
Successful candidates will have an opportunity to develop specialised skills that are highly sought after within the global logistics and maritime sector.
About Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
Mediterranean Shipping Company, commonly known as MSC, is one of the world’s leading shipping and logistics companies.
The company operates across numerous countries and plays a significant role in international trade by connecting businesses and markets around the globe.
MSC has built a reputation for excellence, innovation, and customer service while continuing to invest in the development of future industry professionals.
Through programmes such as this learnership, MSC aims to equip young South Africans with the skills needed to succeed in the logistics and maritime industry.
Learnership Programme Details
Company: Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
Programme: MSC Learnership Programme 2026
Industry: Maritime, Shipping and Logistics
Programme Duration: 36 Months
Qualification Type: Nationally Recognised Qualifications
Available Locations:
- Durban
- Pretoria
- Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
- Johannesburg
About the MSC Learnership Programme
The MSC Learnership Programme follows a comprehensive three-phase learning model designed to gradually build learners’ knowledge, technical expertise, and practical workplace competencies.
Each phase of the programme runs for 12 months, allowing learners to gain both theoretical understanding and valuable workplace experience.
By the end of the programme, participants will possess multiple nationally recognised qualifications and practical industry exposure.
Phase One: National Certificate in International Trade
During the first phase, learners will gain an understanding of the fundamentals of international commerce.
Areas of learning include:
Fresh listings:
- International trade principles
- Global markets
- Import and export procedures
- Trade documentation
- Commercial practices
- International business operations
This phase provides a strong foundation for future learning within the logistics sector.
Phase Two: National Certificate in Freight Forwarding and Customs Compliance
The second phase focuses on freight forwarding and customs-related processes.
Learners will gain exposure to:
- Freight forwarding operations
- Customs legislation
- Import documentation
- Export documentation
- Cargo movement processes
- Customs compliance procedures
- Border regulations and procedures
This qualification prepares learners for careers within freight and customs environments.
Phase Three: Further Education and Training Certificate in Shipping
The final phase introduces learners to specialised shipping operations.
Learning areas include:
- Shipping operations
- Maritime logistics
- Port procedures
- Vessel documentation
- Cargo management
- Shipping administration
This phase helps learners develop a deeper understanding of the maritime industry.
Why This Learnership Is Valuable
One of the key benefits of the MSC Learnership Programme is that participants receive multiple nationally recognised qualifications over the three-year period.
Instead of completing a single qualification, learners progressively build expertise across several important areas within logistics and shipping.
By completing the programme, learners will possess:
- Academic qualifications
- Practical workplace experience
- Professional workplace skills
- Industry-specific knowledge
- Enhanced employability
These attributes can significantly improve future career opportunities.
Financial Benefits
MSC fully supports learners throughout the programme.
Successful participants may receive:
- Fully subsidised tuition costs
- Monthly stipend
- Annual performance bonus
- Practical workplace training
- Nationally recognised qualifications
The annual bonus is linked to factors such as:
- Attendance
- Assessment performance
- Conduct
- Overall programme performance
What Learners Will Do
Participants will take part in both classroom-based learning and practical workplace activities.
Typical responsibilities may include:
- Attending all training sessions.
- Completing assignments and assessments.
- Participating in practical workplace activities.
- Supporting operational departments.
- Learning freight forwarding procedures.
- Assisting with shipping administration.
- Understanding customs compliance processes.
- Developing professional workplace skills.
- Following company policies and procedures.
- Demonstrating professionalism at all times.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Must possess a South African Matric certificate.
- Must have achieved a minimum C aggregate in Matric.
- Mathematics must have been a subject in Matric.
- Must possess computer literacy skills.
- Must have good communication skills.
- Must demonstrate a hardworking attitude.
- Must be reliable and responsible.
- Must have a methodical approach to work.
- Must be willing to learn and develop professionally.
Preference Criteria
Preference may be given to:
- Youth under the age of 25 years.
- Candidates from designated groups.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection.
Important Programme Condition
Applicants should carefully consider their preferred location before applying.
Successful learners will be required to complete the entire programme within the region where they are initially placed.
Transfers between regions will not be permitted during the programme.
Applicants should therefore apply only for a location where they are willing and able to remain for the full duration of the learnership.
Available Locations
The programme is available in the following regions:
Durban
Durban offers extensive exposure to port operations and shipping activities due to its status as one of Africa’s busiest ports.
Pretoria
Learners based in Pretoria may gain experience within inland logistics and administrative functions.
Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
This coastal city provides valuable exposure to shipping and logistics activities linked to port operations.
Johannesburg
Johannesburg serves as a major logistics and distribution hub within South Africa.
Skills Learners Will Develop
Participants can expect to develop a variety of technical and professional skills.
Technical Skills
- International trade
- Shipping documentation
- Freight forwarding
- Customs compliance
- Cargo management
- Logistics administration
Professional Skills
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Time management
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Computer literacy
- Business administration
These skills are highly transferable and valuable across many industries.
Who Should Apply?
This programme is suitable for young South Africans who:
- Are interested in shipping and logistics careers.
- Want to gain nationally recognised qualifications.
- Are eager to develop practical workplace skills.
- Have strong academic potential.
- Are committed to completing a long-term development programme.
How to Prepare a Strong Application
Applicants can improve their chances of selection by:
- Updating their Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Including Matric results and supporting documents.
- Highlighting Mathematics performance.
- Demonstrating computer literacy skills.
- Mentioning any previous work or volunteer experience.
- Ensuring that contact details are accurate and up to date.
- Applying early.
Submitting a complete and professional application can significantly improve selection prospects.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official Mediterranean Shipping Company recruitment platform.
Applicants are encouraged to read all instructions carefully and ensure that all required information and supporting documents are submitted correctly.
Final Thoughts
The Mediterranean Shipping Company Learnership Programme 2026 provides an exceptional opportunity for young South Africans to build careers within the global shipping and logistics industry.
Through structured learning, nationally recognised qualifications, workplace experience, and financial support, learners can establish a strong foundation for long-term professional success.
Young people who are passionate about logistics, international trade, and maritime operations are encouraged to apply for this valuable opportunity.