Western Cape Health Opens 39 Pharmacist’s Assistant Learnerships for 2026

Young South Africans interested in building a career in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector now have an exciting opportunity.

The Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness has officially opened applications for its Pharmacist’s Assistant Learnership Programme 2026, offering 39 positions for unemployed youth who want to gain professional pharmacy training inside public health facilities.

Successful applicants will receive structured workplace training, academic learning, and a monthly stipend of R5 345.75, while gaining hands-on experience in hospital pharmacy environments.

Quick Overview of the Learnership

Programme: Pharmacist’s Assistant Learnership Programme 2026
Number of Positions: 39
Department: Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness
Directorate: Medicine Management, Laboratory and Blood Services Support
Reference Number: ECSS29/2029
Employment Type: Contract Learnership
Programme Duration: 12 months (with possible extension)

Monthly Stipend: R5 345.75
Age Requirement: 18 – 35 years

Closing Date: 27 March 2026 at 17:00

What Is a Pharmacist’s Assistant?

A Pharmacist’s Assistant is a trained healthcare worker who supports pharmacists in managing medicines and delivering pharmaceutical services.

They work under the supervision of a registered pharmacist and help ensure patients receive safe and accurate medication.

Typical duties include:

Preparing and dispensing medication
Managing pharmaceutical stock and inventory
Assisting with prescription records
Supporting pharmacy administration
Ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations

In many hospitals and clinics, pharmacist assistants are also one of the first points of contact for patients collecting medication.

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What You Will Learn During the Programme

Training will be provided by an accredited training provider recognised by the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC).

The programme includes two structured training phases.

Phase 1: Basic Pharmacist Assistant Qualification (12 Months)

During the first year, learners will be trained in:

Pharmacy operations
Medicine dispensing procedures
Pharmaceutical stock control
Patient medicine management
Healthcare administration
Pharmaceutical legislation and ethics

This phase focuses on building foundational pharmacy skills required in healthcare facilities.

Phase 2: Post-Basic Pharmacist Assistant Qualification (Additional 12 Months)

Learners who perform well in the first year may be offered a second 12-month contract.

Advanced training may include:

Advanced dispensing procedures
Clinical pharmacy support
Pharmaceutical supply chain management
Medicine safety monitoring
Pharmacy information systems

After successful completion, learners may register with the South African Pharmacy Council as a Post-Basic Pharmacist Assistant, significantly improving job opportunities.

Monthly Stipend

Participants accepted into the programme will receive a monthly stipend of R5 345.75.

This stipend is intended to assist with:

Transport costs
Personal expenses
Basic support during training

Although it is not a permanent salary, it allows learners to gain professional training while earning an income.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Be a South African citizen
Be between 18 and 35 years old
Have a National Senior Certificate (Matric)
Have Mathematics
Have Physical Sciences and/or Life Sciences
Be interested in a career in pharmacy or healthcare

Important: Mathematics Literacy will NOT be accepted.

Equivalent NQF Level 4 qualifications may also be considered if they include the required science subjects.

Selection Process

Applying does not automatically guarantee placement in the programme.

Shortlisted candidates may go through several selection stages, including:

Application screening
Shortlisting
Competency assessments
Practical evaluations
Qualification verification
Criminal record checks
Security clearance

Candidates invited to assessments must bring recently certified documents (not older than six months).

Documents Required

Applicants should prepare the following:

Updated CV
Certified copy of ID
Certified copies of qualifications
Driver’s licence (if applicable)
Proof of professional registration if required

Failure to present required documents may result in disqualification.

APPLY FOR THE WESTERN CAPE HEALTH PHARMACIST’S ASSISTANT LEARNERSHIP HERE

Important Application Notice

Applicants should be aware that:

No payment is required to apply
Recruitment follows government employment regulations
Applications are subject to verification and security checks
The department may create a candidate pool valid for three months

Additional vacancies may be filled from this pool if they arise.

Mbalizuke Nkosi

Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to sharing opportunities, education updates, and career development information. The editorial team focuses on producing clear, reliable, and easy-to-understand content for students, job seekers, and young professionals.

With a strong interest in youth empowerment, skills development, and access to opportunities, Youth Admin curates and publishes content covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, and study guides across South Africa.

The aim of Mbalizuke Nkosi is to simplify important information and make it accessible to young people who are building their future careers.

Western Cape Health Opens 39 Pharmacist’s Assistant Learnerships for 2026 – R5 345 Monthly Stipend