Rand Water Supply Chain Learnership in Gauteng: A Gateway to Procurement Careers
In the ever-evolving economic landscape of South Africa, learnerships remain one of the most powerful tools to bridge youth unemployment and demand for skilled professionals. The Rand Water Supply Chain Learnership based in Gauteng offers an excellent opportunity for young people who aspire to build a career in procurement, logistics, and supply chain management. This article explores the details, requirements, benefits, and application process of this initiative, as well as tips for prospective applicants.
What Is Rand Water and Why This Learnership Matters
Rand Water is the largest bulk water utility in Africa, supplying potable water to municipalities, industries, and communities in Gauteng and surrounding provinces. Because water infrastructure must operate reliably and at scale, efficient supply chain systems are essential. The organization regularly invests in skills development to support its mandate and to empower local talent.
The Supply Chain Learnership is part of Rand Water’s human capital development strategy. It is designed to equip unemployed youth (including persons with disabilities) with theoretical knowledge and practical workplace experience to operate as competent procurement professionals within the organisation or in other sectors.
Learnership Overview: Duration, Locations, and Number of Positions
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name of Programme | Rand Water Supply Chain Practitioner Learnership |
| Duration | 18 months |
| Location / Sites | Rietvlei and Glenvista, Gauteng (Rand Water sites) |
| Number of Positions | 10 in total, with 5 positions reserved for persons with disabilities |
| Closing Date | 17 October 2025 |
Because of the limited number of positions, meeting all eligibility criteria and submitting a complete application is crucial.
Objectives & Learning Outcomes
The learnership is structured to balance theoretical instruction with practical workplace exposure. By its conclusion, participants should be competent in:
- Coordinating procurement and supply operations
- Managing supplier contracts and performance
- Developing and maintaining procurement schedules and plans
- Ensuring compliance with procurement policies, governance, and ethical standards
- Monitoring metrics and performance indicators in supply chains
These skills are in high demand across sectors such as manufacturing, retail, government services, and infrastructure development. A successful completion often strengthens one’s chances of entering procurement or logistics roles.
Eligibility & Minimum Requirements
To ensure fairness and alignment with national strategies (e.g. NSDS III), Rand Water has set specific criteria:
General Requirements
- Be unemployed at the time of application
- Not be currently enrolled in any educational institution or any other learnership programme
- Must not hold a post‑matric qualification (i.e. no diploma or degree) — nondisclosure may disqualify the applicant
- Possess a Matric (Grade 12) certificate, with at least Mathematical Literacy and English at minimum Level 4
- Be a South African citizen with a valid South African ID
- Age range: 18 to 35 years
- Provide a SAQA / NLRD verification report to confirm credentials
Additional Requirements for Applicants with Disabilities
- Must submit valid proof of disability (e.g. doctor’s certificate or ITRDD13 form signed by a registered medical practitioner)
- In the case of deaf or hard-of-hearing applicants, they may need to provide their own interpreter (at their own cost) to facilitate communication and training participation
If some requirement is borderline, it’s advisable to contact Rand Water’s human resources or the learnership coordination office for clarity before applying.
What Learners Will Do & Key Responsibilities
Throughout the 18 months, learners are expected to be active participants in both learning and work environments. Some of the tasks and duties include:
- Attending structured classes and training modules
- Participating in workshops, assignments, group projects
- Completing a practical logbook tracking applied tasks
- Assisting with procurement scheduling, supply planning, inventory control
- Supporting contract and supplier administration
- Monitoring procurement performance and compliance
- Assisting with audits, documentation, reports, and supplier performance evaluation
Learners will be rotated through different divisions in the supply chain function, giving exposure to procurement, logistics, contract management, and supplier relations. Mentorship and supervision will be provided by experienced professionals within Rand Water.
Skills, Attributes & Personal Qualities Sought
Beyond meeting formal requirements, Rand Water looks for candidates who exhibit:
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational abilities
- Capacity to work independently and as part of a team
- Basic computer literacy (especially in MS Office tools)
- Motivation, self-discipline, integrity, and accountability
- A learning mindset and willingness to adapt and grow
Having these soft skills and attributes will significantly improve your chances of being selected and succeeding during the programme.
Benefits of Joining This Learnership
- Credible Experience & Qualification: On completing, learners gain formal qualification aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and documented workplace exposure.
- Career Entry: The learnership acts as a launching pad into procurement, logistics, or supply chain roles in both public and private sectors.
- Mentorship & Networking: Access to experienced professionals and entry into networks matching your field.
- Resume Strengthening: Having Rand Water on your record increases credibility in competitive job markets.
- Empowerment & Inclusion: The reserved spots for persons with disabilities reflect a commitment to social equity and inclusion.
How to Apply & Important Tips
Application Process
- Visit the official Rand Water careers / e‑recruitment portal and locate the listing for “Supply Chain Practitioner Learnership Programme 2025 / 2026”.
- Register or log in to your candidate profile.
- Complete the online application, ensuring all data fields are filled correctly.
- Upload certified copies of required documents:
- South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Proof of residence
- SAQA / NLRD verification report
- Comprehensive CV
- If applicable: proof of disability
- Review your submission carefully to avoid errors or omissions.
- Submit the application before the deadline: 17 October 2025.
Rand Water Opens 2025 Supply Chain Practitioner Learnership best (x10 Posts) — Apply Now
Only online submissions via the official portal will be considered. Late or incomplete applications are typically disqualified.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Apply early rather than waiting until the last day
- Double-check that all certifications are clearly legible and properly certified
- Ensure your CV is concise, well‑formatted, and highlights any relevant skills or volunteer work
- Prepare a cover letter if the portal allows, to express your passion for supply chain work
- Be ready for potential interviews or assessments
- Keep proof of your application date and submission in case of discrepancies
Risks, Caveats & What to Avoid
- Beware of fraudulent job ads claiming to be this learnership—Rand Water explicitly states no fees or payments are required to apply.
- If you hold any post-matric qualification, do not apply, as this is a disqualifier.
- Ensure the interpretation or accessibility supports you need (if applicable) are clarified ahead of time.
- Late submissions or missing documents will usually lead to automatic disqualification.
- The learnership does not guarantee permanent employment—though high performers may be considered for staff positions within the organisation or elsewhere.
Conclusion: Why You Should Consider Applying
The Rand Water Supply Chain Practitioner Learnership in Gauteng is more than just a temporary training programme—it’s a strategic stepping stone into a profession that underpins many sectors. With structured learning, hands-on exposure, and mentorship in a large, reputable public utility, this opportunity can meaningfully shape your future career path in supply chain management. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about procurement, logistics, or supply operations, this is a chance worth pursuing.
Submit your application before 17 October 2025—prepare well, meet all requirements, and give yourself the best shot at being selected. Good luck, and may you begin a meaningful journey in supply chain excellence.
