DHL Global Forwarding South Africa is recruiting unemployed youth for its 2026/2027 Learnership Programme in Johannesburg. Successful candidates will complete a 12-month Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification while gaining valuable workplace experience in the logistics industry.
DHL Global Forwarding Opens Applications for Its 2026/2027 Learnership Programme
Young South Africans seeking an opportunity to enter the logistics and freight forwarding industry have an exciting chance to launch their careers with one of the world’s most recognized logistics companies. DHL Global Forwarding South Africa has announced applications for its 2026/2027 Learnership Programme, offering unemployed youth the opportunity to complete a Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification while gaining practical workplace experience.
Based in Johannesburg, Gauteng, the programme combines classroom-based learning with on-the-job training, providing participants with the skills, knowledge, and industry exposure needed to pursue careers in logistics, freight forwarding, international trade, and supply chain management.
For many young people entering the workforce, opportunities that combine accredited training with practical experience can be the ideal pathway toward long-term employment and professional growth.
A Global Leader in Logistics
DHL is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading logistics organizations, operating in more than 220 countries and territories across the globe.
Since pioneering international express shipping in 1969, DHL has grown into a global logistics powerhouse offering services across:
- Express shipping
- Freight forwarding
- Supply chain management
- Warehousing
- Road transport
- Air freight
- Ocean freight
- E-commerce logistics
DHL Global Forwarding, Freight (DGFF) serves as the company’s specialist division responsible for air, ocean, and road freight solutions, helping businesses move goods efficiently across international markets.
By joining the learnership programme, participants will become part of a global organization committed to innovation, operational excellence, and talent development.
About the Learnership Programme
The DHL Global Forwarding Learnership Programme is designed specifically for unemployed youth who are eager to gain industry-relevant qualifications and workplace exposure.
The programme runs for 12 months and leads to a Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification.
Participants will benefit from:
- Structured theoretical training
- Practical workplace exposure
- Industry-specific knowledge
- Professional development opportunities
- Exposure to freight forwarding operations
- Enhanced employability upon completion
The programme provides a valuable introduction to one of South Africa’s most important economic sectors, where skilled logistics professionals remain in high demand.
What Participants Will Learn
Throughout the programme, learners will gain insight into the operations that support international trade and freight movement.
The qualification focuses on areas such as:
- Freight forwarding processes
- Import and export documentation
- Customs clearance procedures
- Logistics coordination
- Supply chain operations
- International trade processes
- Freight administration
- Customer service within logistics environments
This combination of theory and practice helps learners develop a strong foundation for future careers within the logistics and transportation industry.
Workplace Responsibilities
During the learnership, participants will support various operational activities under supervision.
Responsibilities may include:
Supporting Import and Export Operations
Learners will assist with processes that help ensure efficient freight movement and service delivery.
Documentation Management
Participants will work with shipping and freight-related documentation, including:
- Receiving documents
- Reconciling records
- Consolidating information
- Maintaining operational records
Administrative Support
Learners will gain experience performing essential back-office functions such as:
- Filing
- Scanning documents
- Reporting
- Data capturing
- Record management
Operational System Support
Participants will learn how logistics organizations utilize systems and processes to manage freight operations efficiently.
Team Collaboration
The programme encourages learners to work closely with colleagues while developing communication and workplace interaction skills.
These experiences help participants gain confidence and practical knowledge in professional working environments.
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Who Should Apply?
DHL Global Forwarding is looking for motivated young South Africans who meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 (Matric) or a relevant Transport and Logistics or Business qualification
- English as a subject with a minimum of 65%
- South African citizenship
- Age between 18 and 30 years
In addition, applicants:
- Must not currently be employed
- Must not be studying at another institution
- Should demonstrate a willingness to learn and develop professionally
Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications will be considered an added advantage.
Skills That Will Help Candidates Succeed
While previous work experience is not required, successful learners are likely to demonstrate:
- Good communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Basic computer literacy
- Professional attitude
- Teamwork abilities
- Organizational skills
- Eagerness to learn
- Interest in logistics and supply chain management
These qualities can help learners make the most of the opportunity and build strong foundations for future careers.
Career Development Opportunities
One of the major benefits of joining DHL is the potential for long-term career development.
As one of the largest logistics employers in the world, DHL offers numerous career pathways across various business functions.
Areas where learners may eventually pursue careers include:
- Freight forwarding
- Customs clearance
- Supply chain management
- Operations management
- Customer service
- Warehousing
- Transportation planning
- International trade administration
The skills gained during the programme can also open doors within the broader logistics and transportation sectors.
Why DHL Stands Out as an Employer
DHL has consistently earned recognition as a leading employer worldwide.
The company’s Top Employer certification reflects its commitment to:
- Employee development
- Workplace wellbeing
- Diversity and inclusion
- Career advancement
- Skills development
- Leadership growth
DHL’s global workforce includes more than 30,000 employees within the Global Forwarding division alone, making it one of the largest and most respected organizations in the logistics industry.
The company operates under a clear purpose:
Connecting People. Improving Lives.
This commitment extends not only to customers but also to the development of future talent through programmes such as this learnership.
Employment Equity Commitment
Selection for the programme will be conducted in accordance with DHL’s Employment Equity Policy.
The company is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and providing equal opportunities to qualified candidates.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Youth unemployment remains a significant challenge in South Africa, making skills development programmes increasingly important.
This learnership offers participants:
- An accredited qualification
- Workplace experience
- Industry exposure
- Professional development
- Enhanced employability
- Access to a globally recognized employer
For many participants, the programme may serve as an important stepping stone toward a successful career in logistics and international trade.
Final Thoughts
The DHL Global Forwarding Learnership Programme 2026/2027 presents an outstanding opportunity for unemployed South African youth to gain valuable qualifications and practical workplace experience within one of the world’s leading logistics companies.
Through the Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5 qualification, learners will acquire industry-relevant skills while building the confidence and experience needed to compete in the modern job market.
For young people interested in logistics, transportation, international trade, and supply chain management, this programme could provide the perfect starting point for a rewarding and long-term career.
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Programme Duration: 12 Months
Qualification: Clearing and Forwarding Agent NQF Level 5
Company: DHL Global Forwarding South Africa
Opportunity Type: Learnership Programme 2026/2027
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