Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Pharmacy Learnership Program x39

Introduction:

The Expanded Public Works Programme Department of Health & Wellness is delighted to announce a significant opportunity for aspiring healthcare professionals in 2026: an Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Pharmacy Learnership Program. This Expanded Public Works Programme comprehensive initiative aims to bolster pharmaceutical services across the region while simultaneously investing in the development of a skilled healthcare workforce.

The Expanded Public Works Programme program is specifically designed to fill a total of 65 vital Learner Pharmacist’s Assistant positions, carefully distributed to address both urban and rural healthcare needs. Of these, 39 positions are designated for bustling city environments, ensuring adequate support in high-population centers, while 26 critical roles are allocated to rural areas, reinforcing access to essential pharmaceutical care in underserved communities.

These highly sought-after positions are offered as fixed-term contract roles, operating under the official Reference Number: ECSS29/2029. All Expanded Public Works Programme successful applicants will be integrated into the dynamic Medicine Management, Laboratory and Blood Services Support Directorate, a crucial arm of the Department responsible for the efficient and safe distribution of medical resources.

For any detailed inquiries regarding this program, interested individuals are encouraged to directly contact Mr. M Hannies, the dedicated program coordinator, who can be reached at (021) 815-8760 during business hours. Please be advised that while the Department welcomes all applications, the submission of an application does not, in itself, guarantee a placement within this competitive program. Furthermore, it is imperative to note that Mathematics Literacy will not be accepted as a qualifying subject for entry into this specialized pharmaceutical training.

Duration:

The journey for Expanded Public Works Programme successful candidates in this program is structured in a two-phased approach, designed for progressive skill development and professional qualification. Initially, all accepted learners will be offered a foundational 12-month contract. During this crucial period, participants will undergo rigorous training and practical experience aimed at earning the highly recognized Basic Pharmacist’s Assistant qualification.

This initial Expanded Public Works Programme phase lays the groundwork for understanding fundamental pharmaceutical principles, dispensing practices, and patient interaction. Upon successful completion of this first stage, and critically, depending on their demonstrated academic performance and practical aptitude throughout the initial 12 months, learners may then be granted an extension. This extends into a second 12-month contract, providing the invaluable opportunity to complete the more advanced Post-Basic Pharmacist’s Assistant qualification, further deepening their expertise and expanding their professional capabilities.

About The Learnership:

The Expanded Public Works Programme Department of Health & Wellness is actively extending an invitation to all eligible and motivated individuals to apply for this transformative program. This initiative is a cornerstone of the broader Expanded Public Works Programme, reflecting the government’s commitment to job creation, skills development, and community upliftment. The Expanded Public Works Programme program’s core objectives are multifaceted and impactful: primarily, it seeks to strategically place young, enthusiastic individuals within healthcare facilities, where they will play an indispensable role in assisting qualified pharmacists.

This direct support is crucial for the efficient functioning of pharmacies and the smooth delivery of medical services. Secondly, and equally important, the program is designed to enhance the provision of excellent, affordable, and accessible pharmaceutical services to patients across the province, as well as to support other healthcare professionals, a mandate legally enshrined and vital for public health.

A key aspect of this program’s credibility and effectiveness is its affiliation with an officially accredited training provider. This ensures that all educational components and practical experience meet the stringent standards set by the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC), the authoritative regulatory body for pharmaceutical professionals in the country. This partnership guarantees a high-quality learning experience that is directly relevant to the South African healthcare context. The ultimate reward for successfully completing the entire program is not just a valuable qualification, but also the eligibility to register with the South African Pharmacy Council as a fully recognized Post-Basic Pharmacist Assistant. This registration unlocks a rewarding career path, allowing graduates to contribute significantly to the health and well-being of communities nationwide.

Requirements:

“We are seeking enthusiastic and driven individuals to join our dynamic team. To be eligible for this exciting opportunity, candidates must fall within the age bracket of 18 to 35 years old at the time of application. This age requirement ensures a vibrant mix of new perspectives and foundational experiences within our workforce.

Furthermore, a foundational level of academic achievement is essential. Applicants are required to possess a National Senior Certificate with university entrance endorsement. This qualification demonstrates a strong academic background and the aptitude for tertiary education, which is crucial for the demanding nature of the role. Specifically, your academic record must include demonstrable proficiency in key scientific and quantitative disciplines, meaning your National Senior Certificate needs to include successful completion of Mathematics, and either Physical Sciences or Life Sciences (or both). These specific subject requirements are non-negotiable and reflect the analytical and problem-solving skills necessary for the position.

Alternatively, we will also consider applicants who hold another qualification at NQF level 4 or higher, provided it is recognized and equivalent to the academic rigor of a university entrance National Senior Certificate. This flexibility allows us to broaden our search for talent while maintaining high standards.

A critical aspect of your application will be the clear and unambiguous presentation of your academic results. It is imperative that your subject scores are clearly shown on all submitted documents, such as your academic transcripts or certificate. Applications where subject scores are not explicitly detailed will unfortunately not be considered, as we need to accurately assess your proficiency in the required disciplines.

What We Offer:

For this role, the successful candidate will receive a competitive monthly remuneration package of R 5345. This pay is reflective of the entry-level nature of the position, offering a solid starting point with potential for growth and advancement within the organization based on performance and dedication.”

How To Apply:

APPLY HERE