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The 2026 FNB Skills Learning Programme is now open for applications. Learn how this unique opportunity blends formal education and real-world banking experience. Get details on eligibility, responsibilities, and how to apply before 14 November 2025.
Introduction: FNB Opens Doors for South African Youth
First National Bank (FNB) has announced the launch of its 2026 Skills Learning Programme, an opportunity designed to empower young South Africans through a mix of formal education and structured work experience.
In a country where youth unemployment remains a pressing challenge, FNB’s initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by preparing participants for real-world success. This programme forms part of FNB’s continued effort to develop capable, confident, and qualified professionals ready to thrive in South Africa’s dynamic financial services industry.
The closing date for applications is 14 November 2025, and candidates are encouraged to apply early on the official FirstRand job portal.
What Is the FNB Skills Learning Programme?
The FNB Skills Learning Programme is a structured development opportunity that allows participants to complete a registered qualification while gaining practical experience within FNB.
Learners are employed on a fixed-term basis and contribute directly to operational and strategic activities across different banking departments. They’ll work on real business projects, engage in customer service, and support internal processes — all while learning from industry experts.
It’s not just a training course; it’s a career-launching platform that builds both competence and confidence.
Programme Objectives and Key Learning Areas
FNB designed this programme to ensure learners grow in three critical areas:
- Professional Capability:
- Understand financial processes and compliance standards.
- Contribute to business operations and project work.
- Identify risks, manage costs, and maintain service excellence.
- Customer Engagement:
- Handle customer queries with professionalism.
- Apply FNB’s Treating Customers Fairly (TCF) principles.
- Collect feedback and improve customer experiences.
- Personal and Career Growth:
- Create and review personal development plans.
- Identify skill gaps and pursue improvement opportunities.
- Live FNB’s shared values — “I get better and better” and “We strengthens me.”
This structure reflects FNB’s belief that successful careers are built through continuous learning, teamwork, and commitment to service excellence.
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Why the Programme Matters
For many young South Africans, access to professional experience is limited — and that’s where FNB’s initiative makes a difference. It provides:
- A clear pathway from learning to employment.
- Practical workplace exposure in a respected financial institution.
- Structured mentorship from experienced professionals.
- Personalised development, tailored to each learner’s goals.
The programme ensures participants gain the technical, analytical, and interpersonal skills needed in modern finance while contributing meaningfully to FNB’s operations.
Q&A: Everything You Need to Know About the 2026 Intake
1. Who Can Apply?
The FNB Skills Learning Programme is open to South African citizens who want to pursue a career in banking, finance, or business administration. Applicants are typically recent matriculants or graduates who show strong motivation, discipline, and eagerness to learn.
While FNB does not publish strict entry requirements in the announcement, successful candidates are usually those who display curiosity, adaptability, and a customer-focused mindset.
2. What Will Learners Do During the Programme?
Participants will engage in a combination of work-based learning and academic study. Their daily responsibilities may include:
- Conducting research and analysis to support business functions.
- Participating in administrative, operational, and project work.
- Managing customer interactions in line with FNB’s service standards.
- Adhering to company policies, compliance standards, and financial processes.
- Working collaboratively with teams to meet organisational goals.
This hands-on exposure ensures that every learner understands how financial institutions operate and how to contribute effectively.
3. How Does FNB Support Learners?
Support is at the heart of FNB’s approach. Each learner receives guidance through:
- Mentorship and coaching from managers and senior professionals.
- Personal development plans to track growth and performance.
- Ongoing training in both technical and soft skills.
- Constructive feedback sessions to encourage continuous improvement.
This multi-layered support system ensures learners not only meet performance goals but also cultivate long-term career readiness.
4. What Values Guide the Programme?
FNB’s learning environment is anchored in shared values that promote integrity, inclusion, and growth. Learners are encouraged to:
- Embrace continuous improvement — “I get better and better.”
- Value collaboration — “We strengthens me.”
- Demonstrate respect for diversity and inclusivity.
- Uphold ethical standards in all interactions.
- Take ownership of their work and development.
By embedding these principles into every stage of training, FNB ensures the programme produces well-rounded professionals who reflect the bank’s customer-first philosophy.
5. Is the Programme Inclusive?
Absolutely. The initiative aligns with FirstRand Group’s Employment Equity Plan, which prioritises fair representation across gender, race, and ability.
FNB actively encourages individuals with disabilities to apply, offering equal opportunities and maintaining strict confidentiality around any disclosed information. The goal is to create a learning environment where every participant feels empowered and supported.
Expert Perspective: The Broader Impact of FNB’s Programme
In South Africa’s evolving job market, traditional education alone is no longer enough. Employers now value practical skills, adaptability, and critical thinking — qualities that the FNB Skills Learning Programme deliberately cultivates.
Programmes like this one are essential in addressing the mismatch between graduate qualifications and industry expectations. By combining academic theory with workplace practice, FNB is helping shape a generation of professionals who understand both the human and technical sides of banking.
From a broader economic standpoint, this initiative supports national efforts to boost youth employment and skills development — critical pillars of South Africa’s long-term growth strategy.
Application Details
Closing Date: 14 November 2025
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Employer: First National Bank (FNB), part of the FirstRand Group
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted online before the closing date. Late applications will not be accepted.
Apply here: https://firstrand.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/FRB/job/Johannesburg/FirstJob-Learner_R42675
Applicants should prepare the following:
- A detailed CV highlighting skills and achievements.
- Certified copies of ID and academic qualifications.
- Optional: a short motivation explaining why you are the ideal candidate.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | FNB Skills Learning Programme 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 14 November 2025 |
| Duration | Fixed-term learnership (duration varies) |
| Qualification | Registered formal qualification (field-specific) |
| Location | Johannesburg |
| Inclusivity | Open to all, including people with disabilities |
| Employer | First National Bank (FNB), under the FirstRand Group |
| Focus Areas | Customer service, financial operations, administration, process improvement |
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Apply
The FNB Skills Learning Programme 2026 isn’t just an entry point into banking — it’s a professional growth journey. It offers exposure to real challenges, mentorship from industry experts, and the chance to earn a qualification that carries weight in South Africa’s competitive job market.
By focusing on education, inclusivity, and values-driven leadership, FNB continues to set the benchmark for meaningful youth development.
If you’re ready to transform your potential into performance, now is the time to act. Submit your application before 14 November 2025 and start your journey toward becoming one of South Africa’s next-generation financial professionals.
