Metropolitan Learnership Programme 2026: Paid Insurance Skills Opportunity for Unemployed Youth
Closing Date: 21 February 2026
Reference Number: MMH260121-13
The Metropolitan Learnership Programme 2026 is officially open, offering unemployed South African youth a paid, structured opportunity to gain real-world experience and a nationally recognised qualification within the insurance and financial services sector.
Hosted by Metropolitan Life, one of South Africa’s most established financial services providers, this 18-month learnership is designed for young people who want to build practical skills, improve employability, and enter a stable, long-term career path in insurance, customer service, and financial administration.
With youth unemployment still affecting millions, programmes like this remain one of the most effective entry points into formal employment.
About Metropolitan Life
Metropolitan Life is one of South Africa’s oldest and most trusted financial services brands, with a legacy spanning over 127 years. The company focuses on providing accessible and affordable financial solutions to low- and middle-income households.
Metropolitan operates across more than 12 African countries, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Its products include funeral cover, life insurance, savings plans, retirement solutions, health products, and hospital cash-back cover.
This strong regional presence and community-driven approach make Metropolitan a credible host for youth development initiatives such as learnerships.
What Is the Metropolitan Learnership Programme 2026?
The Metropolitan Learnership Programme 2026 is a formal, work-based learning programme aligned with South Africa’s national skills development framework.
It combines:
- Classroom-based theoretical training
- On-the-job workplace experience
- Ongoing assessments and mentorship
Successful learners may obtain a Wealth Management NQF Level 4 qualification, subject to meeting academic and performance requirements.
This is not casual or temporary work — it is a structured development programme aimed at preparing participants for real careers in financial services.
Purpose of the Learnership
The programme is designed to help unemployed youth transition into the labour market with relevant, in-demand skills.
Key objectives include:
- Providing hands-on experience in the insurance industry
- Developing customer service, sales, and administrative skills
- Building professional workplace behaviour and confidence
- Awarding a nationally recognised qualification
- Improving long-term employability
For many participants, this learnership serves as a first formal step into employment.
Learnership Details at a Glance
- Programme Type: Learnership
- Duration: 18 months
- Contract Type: Temporary
- Qualification: Wealth Management NQF Level 4 (performance dependent)
- Role Family: Operations
- Company Cluster: Metropolitan Life
- Work Location: KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga
- Remote Work: Not available (on-site role)
Learners should be prepared to work in a professional office environment and comply with company policies and standards.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Requirements)
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- South African citizen by birth
- Aged between 18 and 35 years
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Completed Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification
- From a previously disadvantaged background
Disability Inclusion
People living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Metropolitan is committed to inclusive skills development and equal access to opportunities.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Learners will actively participate in both training and workplace activities, including:
- Completing all learning modules, assessments, and logbooks
- Performing administrative and clerical duties
- Compiling, collating, and distributing documents
- Handling internal and client queries professionally
- Supporting customer service operations
- Screening and routing queries to relevant departments
- Assisting with issue resolution and service delivery
- Maintaining professional conduct and office standards
These responsibilities reflect real entry-level roles in the insurance industry.
Skills and Competencies Required
No previous work experience is required, but successful candidates typically demonstrate:
- Strong attention to detail
- Good planning and time management skills
- Basic numerical and analytical ability
- Clear verbal and written communication in English
- Professional client engagement skills
- Basic computer literacy
These competencies are essential for success in financial services environments.
Why This Learnership Matters in 2026
Youth unemployment in South Africa is often driven by lack of experience rather than lack of ability. Learnerships like this directly address that gap.
Participants benefit from:
- Real workplace exposure
- Industry-recognised training
- A nationally accredited qualification
- Improved confidence and job readiness
- A stronger CV for future employment
Many learners use this experience to secure permanent roles or advance into further training and qualifications.
How to Apply for the Metropolitan Learnership Programme 2026
Applications must be submitted through Metropolitan’s official careers platform.
Before applying, ensure that:
- Your CV is up to date
- Your personal details are accurate
- You meet all eligibility requirements
⚠️ Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Important Notice on Scams
Metropolitan does not charge application fees. Applicants should verify this opportunity on the official company careers website and avoid third-party platforms requesting payment or sensitive personal information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Metropolitan Learnership Programme 2026 paid?
Yes. Learnerships typically include a monthly stipend, although the exact amount is not publicly disclosed.
Do I need previous work experience?
No. This programme is specifically designed for unemployed youth with little or no work experience.
What qualification will I receive?
Learners may obtain a Wealth Management NQF Level 4 qualification, subject to meeting assessment and performance requirements.
Where is the learnership based?
The programme is based in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. There is no remote work option.
Can people with disabilities apply?
Yes. Metropolitan strongly encourages applications from people living with disabilities.
Final Thoughts
The Metropolitan Learnership Programme 2026 offers unemployed youth a credible, structured pathway into South Africa’s insurance and financial services sector. With paid workplace experience, formal training, and a recognised qualification, it remains one of the most practical entry-level opportunities available.
Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply early and ensure their applications are complete and accurate before the closing date.
