Understanding Learnerships, Internships, and Apprenticeships

The YES programme is often confused with learnerships, internships and apprenticeships. However, the YES 12-month quality work experience is not one of the “-ships” and has a very different function in the B-BBEE landscape. Joining the YES programme gives corporate partners the unique opportunity to gain up to two levels up on their B-BBEE scorecard. However, mislabelling the YES programme as one of the “-ships” could jeopardise your B-BBEE level up. In this blog, we delve into the different functions and roles that each of these play, and explain how the YES programme differs from learnerships, internships, and apprenticeships.

What do learnerships, apprenticeships and internships have in common?

The Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) legislation details various ways in which businesses can champion transformation within their business and in South Africa more broadly. The five elements on the B-BBEE scorecard (Enterprise and Supplier Development, Socio-Economic Development, Skills Development, Ownership, and Management Control) provide a holistic approach to transformation covering both a business’ internal operations and external impact.

A key thing that all the “-ships” have in common is that they fall under the Skills Development element on the B-BBEE scorecard.  The YES programme differs in that it is an additive element over and above the pillars of the B-BBEE scorecard and organisations must already be B-BBEE compliant to join the programme. 

Skills Development is a priority element of the scorecard, and plays a vital role in upskilling South Africa’s workforce, improving workers’ employability and labour mobility.

So, businesses would utilise a “-ship” programme to increase their score in the Skills Development element. 40% of the targets outlined under Skills Development must be achieved to maintain/move up B-BBEE levels, and a business can use learnerships, internships, and apprenticeships to reach these targets.

What are the differences between a learnership, apprenticeship and internship?

What is a learnership?

A learnership is a work-based learning programme that combines practical work experience with structured theoretical training, leading to a nationally recognised qualification. The classroom component must be provided by a SETA-accredited training partner to ensure that youth receive a recognised NQF qualification. In addition, learners must be registered with the relevant SETA. 

How long do learnerships last? 

While learnerships typically run for 12 months, the duration may be extended if the chosen qualification requires more time.

What role do businesses play in learnerships?

• Ensure both youth and your training partner are SETA-registered.
• Be ready to provide hands-on support; learnerships are "high-touch" programmes.
• Choose training partners carefully, especially for small groups, to ensure relevant training.
• Verify that training projects align with your industry and work practices, as you'll assist with assignments and portfolios.
• Plan work projects around in-classroom training, which occurs during the workweek and is vital for qualification.

How are learnerships defined in terms of B-BBEE?

• B-BBEE definition: “Recognised or registered structured experiential learning in the workplace that is required after the achievement of a qualification – formally assessed by a statutory occupational of a professional body.”
• Learning achievements as per B-BBEE codes: “Occupational or professional knowledge and experience formally recognised through registration or licensing.”

What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are designed mainly for artisanal careers (like electricians, plumbers, or welders). They combine on-the-job training with formal tuition. Unlike learnerships, apprenticeships focus on preparing youth to pass their Trade Test, which is required to qualify as an artisan.

During the apprenticeship, youth must complete their N Levels (theory related to their trade) alongside workplace experience. Once they’ve finished and passed the Trade Test, they earn recognition as a qualified artisan. 

How long do apprenticeships last?

Usually three years.

What role do businesses play in apprenticeships?

• Ensure the company has qualified artisans who can mentor and guide youth.
• Note that SETA’s role is only to approve the workplace for the apprenticeship.
• The SETA will check that the workplace has the right tools, setup, and resources to support training.

How are apprenticeships defined in terms of B-BBEE?

The B-BBEE definition: “Occupationally directed instructional and work-based learning programme that requires a formal contract, formally assessed by an accredited body.”

Learning achievements as per B-BBEE codes: “Theoretical knowledge and workplace learning, resulting in the achievement of a South African Qualification Authority registered qualification, a certificate of other similar occupational or professional qualification issued by an accredited or registered formal institution of learning.”

What is an internship?

In terms of the B-BBEE codes, an internship, also called a candidacy programme, is the stage that usually comes after a youth has completed most or all of their academic training. Unlike a learnership or an apprenticeship, an internship is not about starting the learning journey but about finishing it. It’s designed to give graduates or near-graduates the chance to gain the practical experience they need to register as professionals in their field. In some industries, such as construction, this step is compulsory and you cannot become professionally registered without completing a candidacy programme. In many ways, an internship forms the “final module” of a person’s overall training, where theoretical knowledge is put into practice so they can take the final step toward becoming a fully qualified professional.

How long do internships last?

Duration varies and can be multiple years depending on the industry.

What role do businesses play in apprenticeships?

• Ensure your business is in an industry where candidacy programmes are offered.
• Provide the relevant on-the-job training and experience to interns who have completed, or are currently completing, the relevant tertiary qualification.
• Ensure that the intern or candidate has a qualified and appropriate supervisor or manager to oversee their performance, and report back on their tasks, progress and experience.

How are internships defined in terms of B-BBEE?

The B-BBEE definition: “Institution-based theoretical instruction, as well as some practical learning with an employer in a simulated work environment – formally assessed through the institution.”

Learning achievements as per B-BBEE codes: “Theoretical knowledge and workplace experience with set requirements resulting in the achievement of a degree, diploma or certificate issued by an accredited or registered formal institution of learning.”

Where does the YES programme fit in?

The YES programme does not fall under any element of the B-BBEE scorecard, including Skills Development. 

Before joining YES, a company needs to ensure it is B-BBEE compliant and consistently meets its levels and element targets to unlock the YES Level Up benefit (read about our sub-minimum requirements for your business type here). A youth already in a learnership, apprenticeship, or internship cannot also be counted under the YES programme.

How does YES work?

A YES programme is akin to an actual job given to unemployed youth on a fixed-term contract. Youth are placed within your organisational structure using our internal model, or externally in key sectors using our Implementation Partner (IP) model. Read more about how the YES programme works here.

How long does the YES programme last?

12-month fixed-term contract.

What role do businesses play in the YES programme?

• Calculate your YES Youth target (number of youth for 12 months) based on NPAT, headcount, or revenue. 
• Pay all YES fees and youth salaries on time.
• Provide real work experience/roles where youth can learn, develop, and grow (to strengthen their CVs and reference letters after 12 months).
• Pay your YES Youth at least the minimum wage.
• By month 12, permanently absorb at least 2.5% of your YES Youth to earn at least one level up on your B-BBEE scorecard; absorb 5% (with double the target) for two levels up.
• Participation in YES is optional for B-BBEE points; you do not need to do YES to earn B-BBEE points.
• In your first year, you can get level(s) up almost immediately if you register with YES and contract youth before your financial year-end (per dtic leniency).

Choosing Between Learnerships, Apprenticeships, Internships and YES

If your business is exploring ways to contribute to South Africa’s transformation while unlocking real benefits, it’s important to understand the difference between learnerships, apprenticeships, internships, and the YES programme. Each plays a distinct role in the youth employment ecosystem. However, YES’s unique offering lets businesses improve their B-BBEE scores, demonstrate ESG with measurable results, and create lasting impact. By choosing the right pathway, you can invest in young talent, strengthen your industry, and help build a more inclusive economy.