Category: Graduate Programmes & Internships
Published: 16 June 2026
Author: Mukhethwa Maumela
Applications are open for the Pepkor Graduate Programme 2026. Degree, diploma and TVET graduates can gain valuable workplace experience through this W&R SETA-funded opportunity. Apply before 30 June 2026.
South Africa’s youth unemployment challenge continues to place pressure on graduates and TVET students seeking meaningful workplace experience after completing their studies. While many young professionals hold qualifications, securing practical industry exposure remains one of the biggest obstacles to entering the job market.
To help bridge this gap, Pepkor Lifestyle has opened applications for its Graduate Programme: Degree, Diploma and TVET (W&R SETA Funded) for 2026. The programme offers structured workplace learning opportunities designed to help graduates and TVET learners gain practical experience while developing skills that employers value.
The opportunity is based in Sandton, Gauteng, and applications close on 30 June 2026.
Why Programmes Like This Matter in 2026
Many employers are increasingly looking for candidates who combine academic knowledge with practical workplace experience. Unfortunately, numerous graduates complete their studies without gaining exposure to real business environments.
Work-integrated learning programmes help solve this challenge by allowing participants to apply classroom knowledge in actual workplace settings.
For young South Africans, these programmes can provide:
- Workplace experience required by employers
- Professional networking opportunities
- Exposure to large corporate environments
- Improved employability
- Better understanding of career paths within retail and business sectors
As one of South Africa’s major retail groups, Pepkor Lifestyle offers participants the chance to learn within an organisation that serves millions of customers nationwide.
About the Pepkor Graduate Programme
The programme is funded through the Wholesale and Retail SETA (W&R SETA) and aims to develop young talent through structured learning and workplace exposure.
Successful applicants will be placed within different business functions where they will work alongside experienced professionals while building practical skills.
The programme duration includes:
- 12-month Graduate Programme for Degree and Diploma graduates
- 18-month Work Integrated Learning Programme for TVET learners requiring practical workplace exposure
Participants will gain hands-on experience while contributing to real business projects and daily operations.
Fields of Study Accepted
Pepkor Lifestyle is inviting applications from graduates and TVET students who have completed qualifications in various disciplines.
Eligible qualifications include:
Business and Administration
- Business Management
- Business Administration
Human Resources
- Human Resource Management
- Industrial Psychology
Finance and Risk
- BCom Financial Management
- BCom Risk Management
- BCom Law
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Information Technology
- Software Engineering
- Business Information Technology
- Information Systems
- IT Project Administration
- Project Management
Supply Chain and Logistics
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management N6
TVET Graduates
Students from accredited TVET Colleges and Higher Education institutions who require workplace experience to complete their qualifications are encouraged to apply.
What Participants Will Learn
Unlike programmes that focus solely on observation, the Pepkor Graduate Programme provides direct exposure to business operations.
Participants may be involved in:
- Research projects
- Administrative functions
- Business process improvement initiatives
- Technology-related projects
- Human resource activities
- Store visits and operational exposure
- Presentations and reporting assignments
The goal is to help graduates understand how different business units operate while developing confidence in professional environments.
Skills That Pepkor Wants to Develop
Pepkor’s programme is focused on building workplace-ready professionals.
Throughout the programme, participants will have opportunities to strengthen:
Critical Thinking
Graduates will learn how to analyse information, evaluate options and make informed decisions.
Communication
Participants will be expected to communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors and stakeholders.
Professionalism
Working within a corporate environment helps graduates develop workplace etiquette, accountability and professional conduct.
Adaptability
Retail and business environments change rapidly. Learning how to adapt is a key skill for long-term career success.
Teamwork
Most projects require collaboration, making teamwork one of the programme’s most valuable learning experiences.
Benefits of Joining a Large Retail Group
Working within a major retail organisation can provide exposure that smaller businesses may not always offer.
Participants may benefit from:
- Access to experienced professionals
- Exposure to multiple departments
- Learning from industry leaders
- Understanding large-scale retail operations
- Career development opportunities
- Professional mentorship
These experiences often help graduates build confidence and strengthen their CVs when applying for future positions.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- South African citizen
- Valid South African ID
- Under the age of 32
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Qualification obtained from an accredited institution
- Degree, diploma or relevant TVET qualification completed
- Candidates with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Importantly, previous work experience is not required.
This makes the programme particularly valuable for recent graduates entering the job market for the first time.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documentation before applying:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified qualification certificates
- Academic transcripts or tertiary results
Pepkor has indicated that candidates who submit all required documents successfully may receive priority consideration during the selection process.
Submit Applications Online
Applications for the Pepkor Graduate Programme: Degree, Diploma and TVET (W&R SETA Funded) are currently open.
Apply Here
Pepkor Graduate Programme applications link
Important Dates
Closing Date: 30 June 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible to avoid last-minute delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this programme paid?
The vacancy advertisement does not specify the stipend amount. Applicants should refer to official programme communications for payment details.
Do I need work experience?
No. The programme is specifically designed for graduates and TVET learners seeking workplace experience.
Can TVET students apply?
Yes. TVET graduates requiring practical workplace exposure are encouraged to apply.
Is the programme only available in Gauteng?
The advertised position is based in Sandton, Gauteng.
What is the age requirement?
Applicants must be under 32 years old.
Can people with disabilities apply?
Yes. Pepkor welcomes applications from candidates with disabilities.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
Many graduate programmes focus on a narrow set of functions, but the Pepkor Graduate Programme offers exposure across various business disciplines within one of South Africa’s leading retail groups.
For graduates struggling to gain their first professional experience, this programme provides a practical pathway into the workplace while helping participants develop skills that remain valuable long after the programme ends.
Whether your background is in business, finance, human resources, logistics or information technology, the experience gained through this opportunity can help strengthen your career foundation and improve your long-term employability in South Africa’s competitive job market.
Mukhwthwa Maumela is passionate about empowering South Africans with reliable, verified, and easily accessible information about careers and education. Through https://www.carseta.co.za/ , Mukhethwa’s mission is to support students, job seekers, and young professionals by providing accurate guidance on learnerships, internships, bursaries, scholarships, and educational resources. you can get in contact with Mukhethwa throuth our email inquire@carseta.co.za