Are you a young South African determined to start a meaningful career in the pharmaceutical and bioprocessing sector? The National Bioproducts Institute (NBI) is inviting unemployed youth to apply for its prestigious Youth Employment Service (YES) Learnership Programme for 2026.
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- Create and Download your CV for these Learnerships here
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- Practice Interview Questions and Answers for these Learnerships here
- View more 2026 Learnerships here
This 12-month programme offers hands-on experience in a world-class biopharmaceutical production environment, making it one of the most valuable opportunities for youth wishing to enter the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, laboratory, engineering, and manufacturing fields.
QUICK OVERVIEW
| Category | Details |
| Programme | NBI Youth Employment Service (YES) 2026 |
| Reference Number | NBI250912-1 |
| Job Type | Temporary (12-Month YES Internship) |
| Department | API Manufacturing |
| Location | Durban, KwaZulu-Natal |
| Workplace Type | On-site |
| Minimum Education | Grade 12 (with English, Maths, Science, Biology) |
| Age Requirement | 18–34 years |
| Closing Date | 27 November 2025 |
| Category | Pharmaceutical |
About the National Bioproducts Institute (NBI)
The National Bioproducts Institute is a leading African biopharmaceutical manufacturer dedicated to producing therapeutic proteins and diagnostic products that improve and save lives. Guided by its purpose to alleviate pain and suffering, NBI plays a critical role in South Africa’s healthcare system through the production of plasma-derived medicines.
The organisation is known for:
- World-class manufacturing standards
- Patient-centred innovation
- Strong commitment to skills development
- Employment Equity transformation initiatives
The YES Programme is part of NBI’s mission to empower the next generation of pharmaceutical and bioprocessing professionals.
About the NBI YES Programme 2026
The NBI YES Programme is designed to provide unemployed youth with practical, hands-on experience in different manufacturing and production units. As an intern, you will work alongside:
- Fractionators
- Process Technicians
- Pooling Technicians
You will be exposed to critical production processes used in the manufacturing of lifesaving plasma-derived medicines.
This is more than just a work opportunity—it’s a chance to enter one of the most specialised and respected industries in the country.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following:
Essential Requirements
- South African citizen
- Aged between 18–34 years
- Currently unemployed
- Not studying full-time
- Grade 12 with at least a D in English, Maths, Science & Biology
- Willing to commit to the full 12-month programme
- Not previously part of any YES Programme
- Maximum of 2 years’ work experience
Added Advantage
(Improves your chances but not compulsory)
- Pharmacist Assistant Training (PAT): Basic or Post-Basic
- Tertiary qualification in:
- Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Microbiology
- Life Sciences
- Chemistry / Biochemistry
Duties & Responsibilities
You will support NBI’s production teams across various biopharmaceutical operations. Duties include:
Safety, Health & Environmental (SHE) Responsibilities
- Attend compulsory pre-employment, routine and exit medicals
- Attend mandatory SHE training
- Strict adherence to SHE rules and safety protocols
- Use of appropriate PPE
- Compliance with OSH Act requirements
- Handle hazardous and biologically active chemicals safely
Operational Responsibilities
Depending on your unit, you will work:
- 12-hour shifts (06:00–18:00 / 18:00–06:00) OR
- 8-hour shifts within 06:00–18:00
You may also be required to:
- Work weekends, public holidays, and overtime
- Work in a cleanroom environment
Technical Tasks
You will assist with:
- Equipment preparation and maintenance
- Sampling and quality checks
- Documentation and SOP compliance
- Cleanroom procedures and hygiene
- Production support during various manufacturing steps
Core Competencies Needed
The ideal applicant should demonstrate:
- Personal leadership
- Ability to manage relationships
- Strong influence and teamwork skills
- Commitment to quality and accuracy
- Understanding of business impact
- Willingness to learn and grow
How to Apply
Make sure you submit:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified Matric certificate
- Any tertiary certificates (if applicable)
- Proof of PAT qualification (if applicable)
APPLY FOR THE NATIONAL BIOPRODUCTS INSTITUTE (NBI) YES LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME HERE
Important:
If you do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Before you Apply, Check the Edupstairs Youth Tools Hub below that can be helpful in your application
- Edupstairs Simple CV Builder Tool
- Edupstairs AI Cover Letter Generator Tool
- Edupstairs Learnership Application Checklist Tool
- Edupstairs Internship Application Checklist Tool
- Edupstairs Interview Q & A Coach Tool
- Edupstairs Learnership Stipend Calculator Tool
- NSFAS Funding Eligibility Checker Tool
- Edupstairs Qualification-to-Career Pathways Tool
- South African Salary Explorer Tool
- TVET College Enrolment Eligibility Checker Tool
- Edupstairs Career Personality Tool
- Daily Career Score Tracker
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is this a paid YES Programme?
Yes, all YES programmes provide a monthly stipend. The exact amount is determined by the employer.
- Do I need previous pharmaceutical experience?
No. Experience is not required—this programme is designed for youth starting their careers.
- Can I apply without Maths or Science?
No. A minimum D pass in English, Maths, Science, and Biology is compulsory.
- Will I be offered a permanent job after the 12 months?
There is no guarantee, but YES participants often gain employment due to the experience gained.
- Can I apply if I previously participated in a YES programme?
No. Applicants may participate only once.
CLOSING DATE: 27 NOVEMBER 2025
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
Disclaimers
- Edupstairs does not accept applications on behalf of NBI.
- All information is sourced directly from the official NBI YES Programme advertisement.
- Always apply through the official NBI website to avoid scams.
- NBI will process all personal information in line with POPIA Act 2013.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE
