The YES Learnership Programme at Shoprite 2024
Youth unemployment is a significant challenge in South Africa, impacting economic growth and social stability. Addressing this issue requires innovative solutions that create pathways to employment and entrepreneurship for young people. One such initiative is the Shoprite Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme, a business-driven effort in collaboration with government and labour departments. This article delves into the details of the Shoprite YES Learnership Programme, its benefits, application process, and impact on South African youth.
Understanding the (YES) Programme
The Youth Employment Service (YES) is
a collaborative initiative involving businesses, the government, and labor
departments. Its primary goal is to reduce youth unemployment by creating
economic pathways for young people. The programme provides a structured,
12-month on-the-job training experience where participants gain exposure to
various aspects of the retail business. This hands-on approach equips them with
the skills necessary to work in retail or even start their own retail
enterprises upon completion.
Objectives of the Shoprite YES Learnership Programme
The Shoprite YES Learnership
Programme is designed with several key objectives:
·
Skill
Development: To provide participants with comprehensive retail training,
ensuring they acquire practical skills that are directly applicable in the
industry.
·
Employment
Opportunities: To increase employability by offering real-world experience in
one of South Africa's largest retail chains.
·
Entrepreneurial
Empowerment: To equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to
start and manage their own retail businesses.
·
Economic
Growth: To contribute to the broader economic development of South Africa by
reducing youth unemployment and fostering a skilled workforce.
Who Can Apply?
The Shoprite YES Learnership Programme is open to South African youth who meet the following criteria:
·
Applicants
must be between 18 and 34 years old.
·
A
South African Matric certificate or an equivalent qualification is required.
· Completion
of the Retail Readiness Programme (RRP) qualification is necessary for
eligibility. (The Retail Readiness Programme (RRP) equips young people without
previous work experience with essential skills for a retail environment. The
programme includes five weeks of practical training and two weeks of
theoretical instruction. Upon successful completion, participants receive a
National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level 3 qualification. (Click here to apply for it.)
Application Process
Applying for the Shoprite YES
Learnership Programme is straightforward. Interested candidates can follow
these steps:
·
WhatsApp
Application: Send a WhatsApp message to 087 240 5709 and select the 'Job
Opportunities' option.
·
CV
Submission: Alternatively, candidates can submit their CVs at the nearest
Shoprite, Checkers, or Usave supermarkets.
·
Alternatively,
you can also apply by filling in your details on the Shoprite online
application portal. [Click here to apply.]
Benefits of the Programme
Participating in the Shoprite YES
Learnership Programme offers numerous benefits to young South Africans:
·
Comprehensive
Training: Participants receive extensive on-the-job training, gaining practical
experience in various aspects of the retail industry.
·
Employment
Prospects: The skills and experience gained through the programme enhance
employability, opening doors to potential job opportunities within Shoprite or
other retail businesses.
·
Entrepreneurial
Skills: The programme also focuses on developing entrepreneurial skills,
enabling participants to start their own retail ventures.
·
Networking
Opportunities: Participants can build valuable professional networks within the
retail sector, which can be beneficial for future career growth.
The Structure of the Learnership Programme
The 12-month learnership programme is meticulously structured to ensure that participants gain a well-rounded understanding of the retail business. Here is a breakdown of what the programme entails:
Orientation and Induction
The programme begins with an
orientation session where participants are introduced to the company, its
values, and its operations. This initial phase also includes an induction into
the specific roles and responsibilities participants will undertake.
Rotational Training
Participants undergo rotational
training, working in different departments such as sales, customer service,
inventory management, and cashiering. This rotational approach ensures that
they gain a holistic understanding of retail operations.
Skills Development Workshops
Throughout the programme,
participants attend various workshops focused on skill development. These
workshops cover topics such as effective communication, customer service
excellence, sales techniques, and basic financial management.
Mentorship and Coaching
Each participant is assigned a mentor
who provides guidance, support, and feedback throughout the learnership.
Regular coaching sessions help participants set career goals and track their
progress.
Performance Evaluation
Participants' performance is
regularly evaluated to ensure they are meeting the programme's standards and
objectives. Feedback from these evaluations is used to tailor further training
and development activities.
Final Assessment and Certification
At the end of the 12 months,
participants undergo a final assessment to evaluate their overall performance
and skills acquisition. Successful candidates receive a certificate of
completion, which serves as a valuable credential for future employment or entrepreneurial
endeavours.
Closing Date
Not yet specified. Apply as early as
possible to avoid disappointment.
Additional Information About the Shoprite YES Learnership Programme
The impact of the Shoprite YES
Learnership Programme extends beyond individual participants to the broader
community. By equipping young people with practical skills and work experience,
the programme helps reduce youth unemployment, fostering economic growth and
stability. Here are some key impacts:
Economic Empowerment: Participants
gain the skills and confidence needed to secure employment or start their own
businesses, contributing to their financial independence and economic
empowerment.
Community Development: The
programme's focus on entrepreneurship encourages participants to create job
opportunities within their communities, promoting local economic development.
Reduction in Unemployment: By
providing young people with the necessary skills and experience, the programme
helps reduce the overall youth unemployment rate in South Africa.
Positive Role Models: Successful
participants often serve as role models in their communities, inspiring other
young people to pursue similar opportunities and strive for personal and
professional growth.
The Shoprite YES Learnership
Programme is a beacon of hope for many young South Africans seeking to improve
their lives and build a better future. By offering comprehensive training,
valuable work experience, and entrepreneurial skills, the programme plays a
crucial role in reducing youth unemployment and fostering economic growth. For
young South Africans between 18 and 34 years old, this learnership programme
represents a unique opportunity to gain the skills and experience needed to
thrive in the retail industry or embark on their own entrepreneurial ventures.
Through initiatives like the Shoprite YES Learnership Programme, South Africa
can continue to build a skilled and empowered workforce, driving the nation's
economic development forward.
