Ericsson Telecommunication Network Operations Learnership 2026 applications are now open for unemployed South African youth. Gain ICT and telecommunications experience, technical training, and a monthly stipend in East London.
Ericsson Telecommunication Network Operations Learnership Programme 2026
Young South Africans interested in ICT, networking, and telecommunications now have an opportunity to gain valuable technical experience through the Ericsson Telecommunication Network Operations Learnership Programme 2026.
Ericsson is inviting unemployed youth to apply for its 12-month learnership programme based in East London, Eastern Cape. The programme combines structured learning with practical workplace training inside the telecommunications industry.
As South Africa continues expanding its digital infrastructure and communication networks, technical skills in networking, fibre systems, and telecommunications are becoming increasingly valuable.
This learnership offers participants the opportunity to gain real industry exposure while building practical skills that can improve future employment opportunities.
Ericsson Learnership Application Details
Programme Information
- Company: Ericsson
- Programme: Telecommunication Network Operations Learnership 2026
- SAQA ID: 59057
- NQF Level: 4
- Duration: 12 Months
- Location: East London, Eastern Cape
- Start Date: 01 June 2026
- End Date: 31 May 2027
- Closing Date: Not specified
Because no official closing date has been provided, applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
What Is the Ericsson Learnership Programme?
The Ericsson Telecommunication Network Operations Learnership Programme is designed to help young South Africans develop practical and technical skills within the telecommunications sector.
The programme combines:
- Structured training
- Technical learning
- Workplace experience
- Field operations exposure
- Telecommunications infrastructure support
Learners will gain hands-on experience working with communication systems, networking equipment, fibre installations, and tower operations.
This practical approach helps learners understand how modern telecommunications infrastructure operates in real-world environments.
What Learners Will Gain
Participants selected for the programme may benefit from several important opportunities.
Monthly Stipend
Successful learners will receive a monthly stipend during the programme.
Industry Experience
Learners will gain exposure to real telecommunications operations and infrastructure projects.
Technical Skills Development
Participants will build skills related to:
- Networking systems
- Tower operations
- Fibre installations
- Cable maintenance
- Telecommunications equipment
Career Growth Opportunities
The programme may help learners pursue future careers within:
- ICT
- Telecommunications
- Networking
- Fibre infrastructure
- Technical field operations
Where Training Will Take Place
The training programme will initially take place in East London.
However, after the first 4 to 6 months, learners may be required to perform site work across different areas within the Eastern Cape.
Applicants should therefore be comfortable with travel and field-based technical work.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum entry requirements before applying.
Required Qualifications
Candidates must have:
- Matric / National Senior Certificate
Technical subjects will be considered advantageous.
Preferred Qualifications
Additional qualifications that may strengthen an application include:
TVET Qualifications in:
- IT
- ICT
- Low Voltage
- Telco
- Digital Electronics
University of Technology Qualifications in:
- ICT
- Networking
Applicants who already have some exposure to technical or networking studies may benefit strongly from this opportunity.
Key Responsibilities During the Programme
Learners will participate in a variety of technical and operational activities.
Telecommunications Tower Work
Participants may assist with:
- Climbing communication towers
- Working on ladders
- Installing telecommunications equipment
- Supporting tower maintenance operations
Equipment Installation
Learners may help install:
- Antennas
- Microwave dishes
- Communication systems
- Fibre optic cables
- Coaxial cables
- Power cables
Maintenance and Repairs
Responsibilities may also include:
- Site inspections
- Equipment audits
- Maintenance support
- Fault identification
- Repair assistance
Health and Safety Compliance
Telecommunications field work requires strict adherence to safety procedures.
Learners will be expected to:
- Follow workplace safety standards
- Complete Ericsson tower training
- Work safely at heights
- Operate responsibly in outdoor environments
Important Skills Ericsson Is Looking For
Ericsson is looking for motivated individuals who are willing to learn and adapt in technical environments.
Key Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Good English communication skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Organisational ability
- Flexibility
- Ability to work under pressure
- Interest in technology
- Willingness to work outdoors
- Basic networking knowledge
The ability to handle physically demanding technical work is also important.
Work Environment and Conditions
This learnership involves practical field work and technical operations.
Applicants should understand that the role may require:
- Outdoor work
- Climbing towers
- Working at heights
- Weekend work
- Shift work
- Night work
- Exposure to different weather conditions
This is not a desk-based programme.
It is best suited to candidates who enjoy practical technical work and hands-on learning.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Academic certificates
Submitting complete and professional documents can improve your chances of being shortlisted.
Why ICT and Telecommunications Skills Matter in 2026
South Africa’s telecommunications and digital infrastructure sectors continue to grow rapidly.
Industries increasingly depend on:
- Fibre connectivity
- Mobile communication networks
- Data infrastructure
- Wireless systems
- Technical network support
As companies continue investing in digital expansion, skilled telecommunications workers remain in demand.
Programmes like this help prepare young people for technical careers linked to South Africa’s digital economy.
Helpful Application Tips
Competition for technical learnerships can be strong.
Applicants can improve their chances by following a few important steps.
Keep Your CV Technical and Relevant
If you studied technical subjects, include them clearly on your CV.
Mention any exposure to:
- ICT
- Networking
- Electronics
- Computer systems
- Technical projects
Use Clear Certified Documents
Ensure all certified copies are readable and updated.
Prepare for Physical Work
Applicants should be comfortable with outdoor technical environments and working at heights.
Click here to apply for Ericsson Telecommunication Network Operations Learnership 2026
Final Thoughts
The Ericsson Telecommunication Network Operations Learnership Programme 2026 offers unemployed South African youth an excellent opportunity to gain technical skills and practical experience within the growing telecommunications industry.
With structured learning, workplace exposure, and a monthly stipend, learners can develop valuable ICT and networking skills while building a foundation for future career opportunities.
For technically minded young people who enjoy practical work, problem-solving, and telecommunications systems, this programme could become an important first step toward a career in the digital and communications sector.
Because no closing date has been specified, interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.