Clicks Group has opened applications for its Youth Employment Programme 2026, offering unemployed young South Africans an opportunity to gain practical retail experience while working towards an NQF Level 2 Checkout Operator Occupational Qualification. The programme combines classroom-based learning with structured workplace training in Clicks retail stores, allowing participants to develop practical customer service, retail operations and cashier skills. Applications are open for opportunities in: Gauteng Limpopo The programme is aimed at unemployed matriculants between the ages of 18 and 29 years who are looking to begin a career in the retail and FMCG industry. | Employer: Clicks Group | Industry: FMCG and Retail | Employment Type: Fixed-Term Contract | Qualification Awarded: NQF Level 2 Checkout Operator Occupational Qualification | Training: Classroom learning and practical workplace training | Age Requirement: 18 to 29 years | Employment Equity: Yes | Stipend: Not stated | Best Before: Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga): 30 July 2026 Durban: 1 August 2026 About the Clicks Youth Employment Programme The Clicks Youth Employment Programme has been developed to help unemployed young people gain valuable workplace experience within one of South Africa’s leading health and beauty retail groups. Participants will receive structured training that combines theoretical learning with practical workplace exposure inside a retail environment. Successful learners will complete an occupational qualification while developing skills that are highly valued throughout the retail and customer service sectors. The programme provides an excellent foundation for individuals interested in careers within: Retail Customer Service FMCG Store Operations Cash Office Administration Pharmacy Retail Support Retail remains one of South Africa’s largest employment sectors and offers numerous entry-level opportunities for young people beginning their careers. Although Clicks has not published a learner stipend in the vacancy advertisement, participants will benefit from: Nationally recognised occupational qualification Retail industry exposure Practical customer service training Improved employability Professional references Experience working for a nationally recognised retailer Completing the programme may improve future employment opportunities in retail, wholesale, pharmacy and customer service industries. Applicants should confirm remuneration and employment conditions directly with Clicks if shortlisted. The programme combines two important learning components. Classroom Training Participants will receive structured theoretical learning covering: Retail operations Checkout procedures Workplace professionalism Communication Occupational safety Workplace Training Learners will receive practical experience inside a Clicks retail store where they will apply the knowledge gained during classroom training. Qualification Awarded Successful participants will receive an: NQF Level 2 Checkout Operator Occupational Qualification This qualification demonstrates competence in retail checkout operations and customer service. Eligibility Requirements Applicants must: Be South African citizens Be between 18 and 29 years old Have passed Matric Have good communication skills Have strong interpersonal skills Be willing to learn Be able to work well in a team Not currently be registered on another Learnership or Skills Programme Applicants should ensure they meet every requirement before submitting an application. Duties and Responsibilities During practical workplace training participants may assist with: Customer Service Greeting customers Providing friendly assistance Answering basic product enquiries Creating a positive shopping experience Checkout Operations Operating checkout systems Scanning merchandise Processing customer purchases Issuing receipts Following cash handling procedures Maintaining checkout accuracy Retail Store Support Learners may assist with: Stock presentation Store housekeeping Customer flow management Team Support Participants may: Work with supervisors Assist experienced colleagues Attend training sessions Follow workplace procedures Complete assigned retail tasks Responsibilities will depend on operational requirements and the learner’s progress during the programme. Skills You May Gain Participants may develop valuable workplace skills including: Retail Skills Point of Sale operations Checkout procedures Retail administration Store operations Customer Service Skills Communication Professional conduct Workplace Skills Teamwork Time management Reliability Accountability Problem-solving Professional ethics Completing the programme may support applications for positions such as: Checkout Operator Cashier Retail Assistant Customer Service Assistant Shop Assistant Retail Administrator Front Shop Assistant Store Assistant With additional experience and further study, participants may progress into: Senior Cashier Store Administrator Assistant Store Manager Store Manager Operations Supervisor Retail Trainer Completion of the programme does not guarantee permanent employment. Why an NQF Qualification Matters An NQF occupational qualification provides nationally recognised evidence of workplace competence. Employers often value candidates who have completed occupational programmes because they have practical experience alongside theoretical learning. The Checkout Operator qualification may improve opportunities within: Hardware retailers Wholesale businesses Convenience stores Documents to Prepare Applicants should prepare: Updated CV Certified South African ID Certified Matric certificate Proof of residence if requested Supporting certificates where applicable Ensure all documents are clear, complete and match the information provided in your application. Application Tips Highlight: School leadership Teamwork Reliability Even if you have never worked before, include activities that demonstrate responsibility and commitment. Demonstrate Willingness to Learn Clicks is looking for candidates who are eager to develop new skills. Use your CV and application to show: Professional behaviour Strong work ethic Interest in retail Willingness to learn from experienced staff Prepare for Interviews You may be asked about: Why you want to work in retail How you handle customers Working in a team Managing pressure Working flexible hours Best Before 30 July 2026 Durban 1 August 2026 Frequently Asked Questions Who can apply? South African citizens aged 18 to 29 who have passed Matric and are currently unemployed. Which provinces are included? The programme is available in: Gauteng Limpopo What qualification will learners receive? Successful participants will receive an NQF Level 2 Checkout Operator Occupational Qualification. Is previous work experience required? No previous work experience is listed as a requirement. Can I apply if I am already on another learnership? No. Applicants must not currently be registered on another Learnership or Skills Programme. Is Matric compulsory? Yes. Is a stipend mentioned? No learner stipend has been stated in the advertisement. Does the programme guarantee permanent employment? No. Completion of the programme does not guarantee permanent employment. Where will training take place? Training consists of classroom learning and practical workplace experience in a Clicks retail store. When do applications close? 30 July 2026 for Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga. 1 August 2026 for Durban. Disclaimer Programme information was accurate at the time of publication. Applicants should confirm application requirements, programme conditions and any remuneration details through the official Clicks Careers website before applying. #J-18808-Ljbffr