Ericsson launches telecom field operations learnership in South Africa

Ericsson South Africa has launched the inaugural intake of its five-year field operations learnership programme, an initiative designed to develop technical skills and create career opportunities for young people in the country's telecommunications industry

The first group of 15 learners was officially introduced during a launch event held in KuGompo, Eastern Cape, on 22 July 2026. The occasion brought together Ericsson representatives, learning centre partners, customers and participants to celebrate the beginning of the programme.

The 12-month learnership leads to the Further Education and Training Certificate: Telecommunication Network Operations (SAQA ID 59057, NQF Level 4). Training will be delivered by Human Capital Learning Solutions and is accredited by MICT SETA and the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).

Combining classroom instruction with practical on-site training and workplace experience, the programme has been tailored to Ericsson's field operations, rigging and installation activities. It is intended to equip participants with the knowledge and hands-on experience required to become job-ready telecommunications technicians and riggers.

Siseko Ngxola, Head of Ericsson South Africa says: “Skills development is important to the future of South Africa’s digital economy. Through this learnership, Ericsson is helping young people build the technical, safety and workplace skills needed to support telecommunications infrastructure. The program also reflects our commitment to developing local talent and supporting a more capable future workforce in South Africa.”

Participants will receive training in core telecommunications principles, health and safety, communication, telecom infrastructure, rigging, installation techniques, tower climbing and field-based simulations. Alongside classroom learning, they will gain supervised experience on Ericsson projects while completing workplace logbooks and compiling a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) to demonstrate practical competence and satisfy the requirements for qualification.

The curriculum has been developed to prepare learners for the installation, maintenance and repair of telecommunications networks, while also reinforcing best practices in safety, quality, environmental responsibility and documentation in line with Ericsson's health, safety and quality standards.

Beyond technical competencies, the programme places emphasis on professional development by strengthening communication, teamwork, ethics, accountability and adaptability. These capabilities are intended to help learners perform effectively in project-based environments and contribute to Ericsson's operational activities across South Africa.

The initiative highlights Ericsson's long-term investment in South Africa and its commitment to expanding opportunities for young people through structured skills development. By nurturing locally trained talent with industry-relevant expertise, the company aims to strengthen the country's technical workforce, support employment creation and contribute to South Africa's digital transformation and economic development. The programme also supports Ericsson's objective of building a skilled local workforce capable of carrying out network deployment, modernisation and restoration projects safely, efficiently and sustainably.