Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing career fields in the world right now. As businesses, governments, banks, hospitals, mining companies, and online platforms become more digital, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to rise rapidly.
For many South African young people, however, one major challenge remains: how do you enter the cybersecurity industry without work experience?
That is what makes the 2026 De Beers Group Cybersecurity Learnership Programme such an important opportunity.
Through Anglo American’s International Cybersecurity Early Careers Programme, unemployed youth and early career candidates now have an opportunity to receive structured cybersecurity training, workplace exposure, and preparation for an internationally recognised cybersecurity certification.
This opportunity is based in Johannesburg and offers a 12-month Learnership experience designed to introduce learners to real-world cybersecurity operations within a global company environment.
Quick Overview
Programme Name: De Beers Group Cybersecurity Learnership Programme 2026
Reference Number: REF79235A
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Industry: Information Management / Cybersecurity
Programme Type: Learnership
Duration: 12 Months
Closing Date: 22 May 2026
Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 with Mathematics and Science
Certification Included: CompTIA Security+ Preparation
Company: Anglo American / De Beers Group
Experience Level: Entry Level / Intern / Trainee
Application Method: Online Application
What Learners Will Actually Do During the Programme
One of the strongest aspects of this Learnership is that learners are exposed to multiple areas of cybersecurity instead of only classroom theory.
Cybersecurity Operations Exposure
Learners will gain practical exposure to:
- Security monitoring
- Security alerts
- Incident detection
- Cybersecurity investigations
- Security incident response processes
The programme allows learners to understand how cybersecurity teams identify and respond to potential cyber threats in real-world environments.
This is valuable because cybersecurity operations centres (SOCs) are central to modern cyber defence.
Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI)
Cyber threat intelligence is becoming increasingly important globally.
Learners will:
- Learn how cyber threats are analysed
- Understand intelligence gathering
- Contribute to threat reporting
- Learn how organisations proactively defend themselves
This exposure helps learners understand how hackers operate and how organisations anticipate attacks before they happen.
Digital Forensics Exposure
Digital forensics is one of the most interesting areas of cybersecurity.
Learners will gain exposure to:
- Evidence collection
- Investigation methodologies
- Forensic tools
- Legally compliant investigation processes
This area focuses on investigating suspicious digital activities and analysing cyber incidents properly.
Human Cyber Risk and Awareness
Many cyber attacks happen because users accidentally click malicious links or fall for scams.
The Learnership therefore also focuses on:
- Cybersecurity awareness training
- User behaviour analysis
- Safe online behaviour promotion
- Awareness campaigns
This is extremely important because cybersecurity is not only about technology — it is also about people.
CompTIA Security+ Certification Preparation
One of the biggest advantages of this Learnership is preparation for the CompTIA Security+ certification.
The CompTIA Security+ certification is internationally recognised and respected in the cybersecurity industry.
It is often considered one of the best beginner cybersecurity certifications globally.
The certification covers areas such as:
- Network security
- Threat management
- Identity management
- Cryptography
- Risk management
- Security operations
- Incident response
Having CompTIA Security+ on your CV can significantly strengthen your employability in the IT and cybersecurity sector.
For many South African youth, accessing this type of training independently can be very expensive, which makes this Learnership even more valuable.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the programme, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have completed Grade 12
- Have Mathematics and Science
- Have strong interest in cybersecurity
- Have analytical and problem-solving skills
- Have communication and teamwork skills
- Be able to learn new technologies quickly
- Have good English communication skills
This opportunity is especially suitable for:
- Matriculants interested in IT
- Youth interested in ethical hacking
- Entry-level tech candidates
- Unemployed youth interested in digital careers
- Individuals wanting to transition into cybersecurity
Who Should Strongly Consider Applying?
You should strongly consider this opportunity if:
- You enjoy technology
- You are curious about cybercrime and digital security
- You enjoy solving problems
- You are willing to learn continuously
- You want future-proof career skills
- You are interested in international-standard qualifications
- You are willing to study and commit seriously
Cybersecurity requires discipline and continuous learning. Companies look for people who are curious, analytical, and responsible.
What the Recruitment Process Include
According to the programme details, the recruitment process includes:
- CV screening
- Interviews
- Psychometric assessments
- Background checks
- Qualification verification
- Criminal checks where applicable
Applicants may also be required to consent to background screening procedures.
This means applicants should ensure:
- Their CV is professional
- Their qualifications are accurate
- Their contact details are correct
- They prepare properly for interviews
How to Improve Your Chances of Being Selected
Competition for cybersecurity opportunities is usually very high.
Here are important ways to improve your chances:
Build Basic Cybersecurity Knowledge Before Applying
Even beginner knowledge can help.
You can learn basics through:
- Free YouTube cybersecurity tutorials
- Free cybersecurity courses
- Introductory networking courses
- Basic Linux tutorials
- Online IT fundamentals
Create a Strong CV
Your CV should clearly show:
- Technical interests
- Computer literacy
- Problem-solving ability
- Academic strengths
- Leadership roles
- Projects or certifications
- Willingness to learn
Prepare for Psychometric Assessments
Many large companies use assessments to evaluate:
- Logical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Behavioural traits
- Learning ability
Practicing aptitude tests online may help.
Improve Communication Skills
Cybersecurity professionals often work in teams and communicate incidents clearly.
Good communication skills can strengthen your application significantly.
How to Apply
APPLY FOR THE DE BEERS GROUP CYBERSECURITY LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME 2026 INTAKE HERE
Edupstairs Advice for Applicants
Do not apply casually.
This is a specialised technical opportunity linked to an international company environment.
Before applying:
- Update your CV properly
- Use a professional email address
- Prepare for interviews
- Research cybersecurity basics
- Understand what Anglo American does
- Practice answering motivation questions
Also remember:
You do not need to know everything already.
The company is looking for individuals with potential, discipline, curiosity, and willingness to learn.
If you genuinely want to enter the cybersecurity industry, this Learnership could become the foundation of your future career.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is this Learnership paid?
The advert mentions competitive salary and benefits, although exact stipend details are not specified.
- Is prior cybersecurity experience required?
No. This is an entry-level programme designed for early career candidates.
- Is the CompTIA Security+ certification included?
The programme includes preparation for the CompTIA Security+ certification.
- Where is the Learnership based?
The Learnership is based in Johannesburg, South Africa.
- What subjects are required?
Applicants must have Grade 12 with Mathematics and Science.
- Can university graduates apply?
Yes, provided they meet the programme requirements.
- What is the closing date?
The closing date is 22 May 2026.
You can also:
- View latest Internships
- View latest Learnerships
- View Latest Bursaries
- View latest Government jobs
- View latest Company Vacancies
- View latest Municipality vacancies
- Visit the Edupstairs blog for daily updates
Application Outcome Tracker (anonymous)
No names collected. This helps future applicants understand real-world timelines.
Have you applied for this opportunity?
Disclaimer
Edupstairs shares opportunity information for educational and informational purposes only. Applicants should always verify details and apply through the official company recruitment platform.
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. USE THE EDUPSTAIRS SCAM DETECTOR TOOL TO SPOT A SCAM BEFORE YOU APPLY