The Dunlop Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme 2026/2027 is an exciting opportunity designed to empower South Africa’s unemployed youth through practical training and corporate exposure. Hosted by Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (Pty) Ltd, the manufacturer of world-renowned tyre brands — Dunlop, Falken, and Sumitomo Tyres — this 12-month initiative aims to provide young people with valuable workplace experience that enhances their future employability.
As part of the national Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative, the programme demonstrates Dunlop’s continued commitment to uplifting communities, creating sustainable employment pathways, and shaping the next generation of South African talent.
About the Dunlop YES Learnership Programme 2026/2027
The Dunlop YES Learnership Programme is a structured, year-long learning and development journey that combines practical training, on-the-job mentorship, and exposure to multiple business functions. The programme enables participants to gain real-world experience in one of South Africa’s most innovative tyre manufacturing companies.
Participants will be stationed at Dunlop’s Durban Head Office or the Ladysmith Manufacturing Plant, where they will work alongside industry experts and professionals committed to developing their skills and career potential.
Employment opportunities portal
This initiative not only creates opportunities for unemployed youth but also contributes to South Africa’s broader goal of reducing unemployment through industry-led youth empowerment.
Programme Locations
The Dunlop Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme 2026/2027 will take place at two key operational centers:
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- Durban Head Office – The company’s corporate headquarters, where participants gain exposure to strategic business operations and administrative functions.
- Ladysmith Manufacturing Plant – Dunlop’s state-of-the-art tyre production facility, providing learners with first-hand experience in industrial processes, manufacturing systems, and quality control.
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Both locations offer a vibrant, professional environment designed to promote learning, innovation, and career growth.
Fields of Learning
Dunlop’s YES Learnership Programme offers placement opportunities across multiple business and technical disciplines. Applicants must hold a Certificate, Diploma, or equivalent qualification in one of the following areas:
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- Marketing / Public Management
- Automotive / Mechanical and related fields
- Finance
- Business Management
- Administration
- Information Technology (IT)
- Environmental Health and Safety
- Supply Chain Management
- Human Resources (HR)
- Quality Management
South African Learnerships
This multidisciplinary approach ensures that participants are placed in environments aligned with their educational background and future career aspirations.
Why the Dunlop Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme 2026/2027 Is Important
The Dunlop YES Learnership Programme stands as a critical bridge between education and employment. With South Africa facing high youth unemployment rates, Dunlop’s initiative directly addresses this challenge by equipping participants with practical workplace experience and industry-recognized exposure.
Here’s why this programme matters:
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- Bridging the Skills Gap:
Many young graduates lack the experience required to secure employment. This programme fills that gap through practical learning in a real corporate environment. - Empowering South African Youth:
By targeting unemployed youth under 34, Dunlop helps first-time job seekers gain meaningful entry into the workforce. - Supporting National Development:
As part of the YES Initiative, Dunlop contributes to the national vision of reducing unemployment and fostering inclusive economic growth. - Career Advancement Opportunities:
Successful completion of the programme enhances participants’ employability, often leading to long-term opportunities in manufacturing, engineering, HR, IT, and management. - Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):
Dunlop’s commitment to youth empowerment reflects its dedication to community upliftment, sustainable business practices, and long-term national progress. - Dunlop Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme 2026/2027 | Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (Durban & Ladysmith)
Collection agent training Candidate Requirements
To be eligible for the Dunlop Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme 2026/2027, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
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- Be unemployed South African youth under the age of 34.
- Hold a post-school qualification (Certificate, Diploma, or equivalent).
- Preferably have no previous work experience.
- Must not have participated in a YES Programme before.
- Be passionate, driven, and eager to learn in a fast-paced industrial environment.
This initiative is exclusively for first-time job seekers, offering them a rare opportunity to gain corporate experience in a leading international company.
Key Skills and Competencies
Ideal candidates for the Dunlop YES Learnership Programme should possess the following soft skills and personal attributes:
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- Excellent time management and organizational skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
- A proactive mindset with a problem-solving attitude.
- Ability to work under pressure and adapt to a dynamic environment.
- Attention to detail and a strong commitment to quality standards.
These competencies are essential for thriving in Dunlop’s professional and production environments.
About Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (SRSA)
Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI), is a leading tyre manufacturing company with a strong presence in Africa. It is the proud producer and marketer of Dunlop, Falken, and Sumitomo Tyres, brands synonymous with performance, safety, and durability.
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The company’s vision extends beyond tyre production — SRSA is committed to sustainability, innovation, and youth empowerment, making it one of South Africa’s most progressive employers. By hosting the Dunlop YES Learnership Programme, SRSA demonstrates its dedication to developing local talent and driving socio-economic transformation.
For more about the company, visit www.srigroup.co.za.
Benefits of Joining the Dunlop YES Learnership Programme
Participants in the Dunlop Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme 2026/2027 gain numerous career-enhancing benefits:
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- Workplace exposure in one of South Africa’s top manufacturing companies.
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals.
- Development of practical and technical skills aligned with industry demands.
- Opportunity to build a professional network within the tyre manufacturing industry.
- A recognized YES Programme certificate upon completion.
- Increased employability and career readiness after the 12-month period.
This learnership serves as a powerful stepping stone for individuals aiming to build long-term careers in corporate or industrial sectors.
How to Apply
If you meet the above requirements and are ready to launch your career with Dunlop, follow the instructions below to apply:
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- Email: Careers@srigroup.co.za
- Subject Line: YES Learner Programme
- Include: A detailed CV, certified copies of your ID, academic qualifications, and any supporting documents.
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Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Ensure that all your documents are complete and accurate before submission.
Closing Date
Applications close on 07 November 2025.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Conclusion
The Dunlop Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme 2026/2027 represents more than just a learning opportunity — it’s a career-defining experience for ambitious young South Africans. Through this initiative, Sumitomo Rubber South Africa continues to empower youth, foster skills development, and contribute to a more inclusive and resilient economy.
South African Learnerships
If you are a determined, goal-oriented, and hardworking individual eager to gain experience with one of the country’s top industrial employers, this is your chance to step into the future with Dunlop.
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