Introduction: Why Nursing Learnerships in 2025 Matter More Than Ever
Free Nursing Learnerships for Public Hospitals in 2025
Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing industries in South Africa and across the globe. Public hospitals are in constant demand for qualified nurses, making nursing one of the most stable and rewarding careers in 2025.
For thousands of South Africans, however, university tuition is out of reach. That’s where free nursing learnerships come in. These programs—often offered by public hospitals, SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities), and the Department of Health—allow you to gain both theoretical training and hands-on hospital experience without paying fees.
Even better? Many nursing learnerships provide a monthly stipend, so you can earn while you learn.
This guide will walk you through the best free nursing learnerships for public hospitals in 2025, their requirements, how to apply, and tips to maximize your chances of getting accepted.
What Is a Nursing Learnership?
Free Nursing Learnerships for Public Hospitals in 2025
A nursing learnership is a structured training program that combines:
- Theoretical classroom education (nursing theory, anatomy, patient care, ethics).
- Practical workplace training at a public hospital or clinic.
These programs are funded by the South African government and accredited by the South African Nursing Council (SANC).
At the end of the learnership, candidates receive a recognized qualification (like Auxiliary Nurse or Professional Nurse), making them eligible to register with SANC and pursue nursing as a career.
Benefits of Free Nursing Learnerships in 2025
- No Tuition Fees – Funded by the government or hospital.
- Monthly Stipend – Most public hospital learnerships pay between R3,500 – R8,000.
- Practical Training – Work alongside doctors and registered nurses.
- Employment Opportunities – High chance of absorption into the hospital after training.
- National Recognition – Qualifications are SANC-accredited.
- Career Growth – Learnerships can lead to further nursing diplomas, degrees, or specializations.
12 Best Free Nursing Learnerships for Public Hospitals in 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the top public hospital nursing learnerships in South Africa for 2025.
1. Department of Health Nursing Learnerships
The National Department of Health (DoH) collaborates with provincial hospitals to provide annual nursing learnerships.
- Available At: Public hospitals across provinces (Gauteng, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape).
- Requirements: Grade 12 with English, Life Sciences, and Maths/Literacy.
- Stipend: R4,000 – R6,500.
- Duration: 2–4 years depending on qualification.
- Accreditation: SANC.
Visit the Department of Health
2. Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital Learnership
Located in Soweto, Baragwanath is one of the largest hospitals in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Focus: General nursing and midwifery.
- Requirements: Grade 12, South African ID, proof of residence.
- Stipend: ~R5,500 monthly.
- Perks: Exposure to large-scale patient care.
3. Steve Biko Academic Hospital Learnership
A leading academic hospital in Pretoria, Steve Biko partners with universities for structured nurse training.
- Programs: Auxiliary nursing and professional nursing.
- Stipend: R4,500 – R7,000.
- Best For: Students who want to work in specialized wards.
4. Tygerberg Hospital Nursing Learnership (Western Cape)
Tygerberg is a teaching hospital affiliated with Stellenbosch University.
- Programs: Community health, auxiliary nursing.
- Requirements: Grade 12 with strong Life Sciences.
- Stipend: ~R6,000 monthly.
5. Groote Schuur Hospital Nursing Learnership
Famous for the world’s first heart transplant, Groote Schuur is a top choice for learners.
- Programs: General nursing and specialized training.
- Duration: 2–4 years.
- Stipend: Competitive, ~R7,000.
6. Netcare Education and Training Academy (Private but bursary-linked)
Though Netcare is private, many learners attend public-hospital rotations during their bursary-funded training.
- Programs: Nursing assistant to registered nurse pathways.
- Stipend: R5,000 – R8,000 (bursary learners).
7. George Mukhari Academic Hospital Learnership
Based in Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, this hospital offers community health and nursing programs.
- Duration: 3 years.
- Stipend: ~R4,800 monthly.
8. Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital (Durban)
This public hospital in KZN offers annual nursing learnership intake.
- Requirements: Matric with English & Life Sciences.
- Duration: 2–4 years.
- Stipend: R5,000+.
9. Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital (Eastern Cape)
A teaching hospital linked with Walter Sisulu University.
- Programs: Auxiliary and general nursing.
- Stipend: ~R6,000 monthly.
10. Limpopo Department of Health Nursing Learnerships
For residents of Limpopo, the DoH provides provincial nursing learnerships at Polokwane Hospital and others.
- Focus: Primary healthcare nursing.
- Stipend: R4,500 – R6,000.
11. Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital
One of the oldest public hospitals in SA, offering nursing learnerships annually.
- Duration: 3–4 years.
- Stipend: Competitive monthly allowance.
12. Provincial Health Departments (KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Mpumalanga)
Most provinces publish annual calls for nursing learnerships.
Check Provincial Government Portals
General Requirements for Nursing Learnerships
Free Nursing Learnerships for Public Hospitals in 2025
To qualify, you typically need:
- South African citizenship.
- Grade 12 with English, Life Sciences, and Maths/Math Literacy.
- No criminal record.
- Strong communication skills.
- Passion for healthcare and patient care.
How to Apply for Free Nursing Learnerships 2025
- Visit Hospital Websites – Look under “Careers” or “Training.”
- Check Government Portals – National and provincial DoH post annual adverts.
- Register with SANC – Ensure you meet nursing council requirements.
- Prepare Documents – Certified ID, matric certificate, proof of residence, CV.
- Apply Early – Deadlines are strict.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Acceptance
Free Nursing Learnerships for Public Hospitals in 2025
- Volunteer at Clinics – Shows passion and commitment.
- Write a Strong Motivation Letter – Explain why nursing is your calling.
- Maintain Good Grades – Especially in Life Sciences.
- Stay Updated – Follow DoH social media for learnership announcements.
Career Paths After a Nursing Learnership
Free Nursing Learnerships for Public Hospitals in 2025
Once you complete your learnership, you can register with SANC and pursue roles such as:
- Auxiliary Nurse
- Enrolled Nurse
- Professional Nurse
- Midwife
- Community Health Nurse
You can also specialize further in ICU, pediatrics, psychiatric nursing, or surgical care.
Final Thoughts
A free nursing learnership for public hospitals in 2025 is more than just an education opportunity—it’s a life-changing career pathway. With shortages of healthcare workers worldwide, nurses trained in South Africa are in high demand locally and abroad (US, UK, Canada).
By joining one of these 12 top learnership programs, you can:
- Gain a fully funded education,
- Earn a stipend while training,
- And secure a lifelong, respected career in nursing.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of making a difference in people’s lives, now is the time to apply.
Bookmark Department of Health Careers for the latest updates.
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