Learn how the Shoprite Group YES Programme and the 2026 bursary fund work, who qualifies, what is covered, and how to apply. A clear, updated guide for South African youth.
Shoprite Group YES Programme and 2026 Bursary Fund: Opportunities Every Young South African Should Know
The Shoprite Group has long been recognised as one of South Africa’s largest private-sector employers and a key supporter of youth development. Through initiatives such as the Shoprite Group YES Programme and the 2026 bursary fund, the company continues to open real pathways for young people who want to gain work experience, skills, and access to higher education.
At a time when youth unemployment remains high, programmes that combine practical workplace exposure with financial support for education are more important than ever. This article explains what the Shoprite Group YES Programme is, how the 2026 bursary fund works, who qualifies, and how to apply — using clear, up-to-date information to help you make informed decisions.
Overview of the Shoprite Group
The Shoprite Group is Africa’s largest food retailer, operating thousands of stores across South Africa and other African countries. Beyond retail, the Group is actively involved in skills development, learnerships, internships, and bursary funding aimed at empowering young people and strengthening the country’s future workforce.
The Shoprite Group YES Programme and the 2026 bursary fund form part of this broader commitment to youth employment, education, and inclusive economic growth.
What Is the Shoprite Group YES Programme?
The Shoprite Group YES Programme is part of the national Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative. It is designed to give unemployed young South Africans 12 months of paid work experience, helping them build skills, confidence, and a work record that improves their chances of future employment.
Participants are placed in various Shoprite Group operations, which may include:
- Retail stores
- Distribution centres
- Administrative and support offices
- Logistics and supply chain environments
During the programme, participants receive on-the-job training, mentorship, and exposure to real workplace responsibilities.
Why the Shoprite Group YES Programme Matters
Many young people struggle to find jobs because they lack experience. The Shoprite Group YES Programme directly addresses this challenge by offering:
- Practical work experience with a well-established employer
- Monthly income during the programme period
- Exposure to retail and business operations
- Improved employability after completion
While completion of the programme does not guarantee permanent employment, it significantly strengthens a participant’s CV and workplace readiness.
Shoprite Group YES Programme Requirements
To be considered for the Shoprite Group YES Programme, applicants generally need to meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between the ages of 18 and 35
- Be unemployed at the time of application
- Not have participated in a YES Programme before
- Have a valid South African ID
- Be willing to commit to the full 12-month programme
Some placements may have additional requirements, such as basic literacy, numeracy, or availability to work shifts, depending on the role and location.
What Is the Shoprite Group 2026 Bursary Fund?
In addition to work experience programmes, the Shoprite Group also offers bursary funding for students who show academic potential but lack financial resources. The 2026 bursary fund focuses on supporting students in fields that align with the Group’s current and future skills needs.
The bursary aims to reduce financial barriers and enable students to complete their studies successfully while preparing them for possible future employment within the Group.
Fields of Study Covered by the 2026 Bursary Fund
Although bursary fields may change from year to year, the Shoprite Group bursary typically supports studies in areas such as:
- Accounting and Finance
- Information Technology and Data Science
- Supply Chain and Logistics
- Retail Business Management
- Engineering and related technical fields
Funding is usually prioritised for qualifications that are scarce or critical within the retail and business sector.
Shoprite Group 2026 Bursary Requirements
Applicants for the Shoprite Group 2026 bursary fund are generally expected to meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Have strong academic results
- Be registered or intending to register at a recognised tertiary institution
- Demonstrate financial need
- Be studying or planning to study in an approved field
What the Bursary Usually Covers
While coverage may differ depending on individual circumstances, the Shoprite Group bursary often includes:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation or residence costs (where applicable)
- A living allowance
Some bursary recipients may also be offered vacation work, mentoring, or graduate opportunities with the Shoprite Group after completing their studies.
How to Apply for the Shoprite Group YES Programme
Applications for the Shoprite Group YES Programme are typically submitted online when the programme opens.
General application steps:
- Prepare your South African ID and basic personal details
- Ensure you meet the age and unemployment criteria
- Complete the official online application form
- Submit your application before the closing date
👉 https://apply.shoprite.jobs/
Applicants are advised to apply early and ensure that all information provided is accurate.
How to Apply for the Shoprite Group 2026 Bursary Fund
Bursary applications are also submitted online through official Shoprite Group platforms.
Typical application process:
- Gather academic results and proof of income
- Confirm that your chosen field of study is covered
- Complete the bursary application form carefully
- Upload all required supporting documents
👉 https://shoprite-bursary.erecruit.co/candidateapp/Jobs/View/SHO260120-4
Incomplete or late applications are usually not considered.
Related Yes programmes you can apply for:
Important Tips for Applicants
- Apply only through official Shoprite Group channels
- Double-check all documents before submission
- Use a valid email address and phone number
- Watch out for scams — the Shoprite Group does not charge application fees
Staying informed and organised improves your chances of success.
Shoprite Group’s Commitment to Youth Development
Through the Shoprite Group YES Programme and the 2026 bursary fund, the company continues to play a meaningful role in addressing youth unemployment and skills shortages in South Africa. These initiatives do more than offer short-term support — they help young people build sustainable careers and long-term independence.
For many participants, these opportunities represent a first step into the world of work or higher education, opening doors that might otherwise remain closed.
Final Thoughts
The Shoprite Group YES Programme and the 2026 bursary fund are valuable opportunities for young South Africans who are serious about building their future. Whether you are seeking workplace experience or financial support for your studies, these programmes offer practical, credible pathways forward.
Staying updated, applying early, and meeting all requirements are key to maximising your chances. As more opportunities open throughout the year, platforms like careersfocus.co.za remain essential for tracking verified youth programmes and funding updates.
Karabo Ntswaki – Author of CareersFocus.co.za
Karabo Ntswaki is passionate about empowering South Africans with reliable, verified, and easily accessible information about careers and education. Through CareersFocus.co.za, Karabo’s mission is to support students, job seekers, and young professionals by providing accurate guidance on learnerships, internships, bursaries.
Her vision is to make CareersFocus.co.za the most trusted online source in South Africa for career and educational information, helping individuals overcome barriers, make informed decisions about professional goals. you can contact me at info@careersfocus.co.za or our website https://careersfocus.co.za/