1. What is the UBelong Learnership?
The U‑Belong Learnership is a 12-month, skills-focused training program run by UBelong (T3 Telecoms) in South Africa. It’s designed to equip unemployed youth with foundational sales, customer service, and small-business skills. Participants earn a National Certificate in Business Practice (NQF Level 1) through MICT SETA while gaining hands-on experience selling starter packs, airtime, data, prepaid electricity, and other services within their communities.
This learnership doesn’t just hand you a certificate and send you off. It trains you on the job, pays you while you learn, and gives you the chance to build a professional foundation without needing a university degree.
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2. Why It’s a Game-Changer in 2025
1. It’s Nationally Recognized
UBelong’s learnership is accredited by MICT SETA, ensuring it meets industry training standards. That means your certification holds real weight across the country.
2. You Learn by Doing
Forget boring lectures. This program puts you in real-life business situations where you apply what you’re learning immediately something most university courses don’t offer.
3. You Earn While You Learn
Unlike internships that expect you to work for free, UBelong offers a monthly stipend to cover your transport and daily needs. It’s not a job, but it gives you breathing room while you build a future.
4. It Creates Community Jobs
UBelong is not just training individuals; it’s building sustainable jobs across underserved areas. This is a big part of their mission: to empower local economies from the ground up.
5. It Opens Doors
After completing the program, graduates are often promoted to team leads or sales supervisors. Some even go on to open their own agent hubs with UBelong’s support.
3. Who Can Apply: Requirements & Eligibility
To qualify for the UBelong Learnership in 2025, you’ll need:
- A minimum of Grade 10 (Matric is preferred but not mandatory)
- A valid South African ID
- To be between the ages of 18 and 35
- The ability to commit to 12 months full-time
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- A real interest in sales, entrepreneurship, or customer service
There’s no need for previous job experience, but if you’ve done part-time work or volunteered before, that definitely helps.
4. What You’ll Learn: Curriculum & Certification
NQF Level 1 Business Practice Certification
This qualification is registered with MICT SETA and focuses on essential business operations.
Core Learning Areas Include:
- Sales and customer service techniques
- Business communication
- Time management and goal setting
- Product knowledge for prepaid services
- Digital tools and using the UBelong mobile app
- Community-based selling strategies
Training is Blended
Expect both in-class and field-based training. You’ll sell real products in your area while learning from sales mentors and tracking your performance on the UBelong platform. U‑Belong
5. Monthly Stipend & Financial Benefits
The UBelong Learnership includes a monthly stipend a key draw for many applicants. While exact amounts can vary based on funding and province, typical stipends for NQF Level 1 learnerships in South Africa fall between R3,500 and R5,000 per month. U‑Belong
Beyond that:
- Some roles include commission incentives
- There are performance bonuses for top sellers
- You’re exposed to real earning models in sales and entrepreneurship
This makes it more than just a learnership. It’s your entry into the working economy.
6. Real-Life Success Stories U‑Belong
Devine Nyalungu’s Journey
Devine joined U-Belong in 2020 with no prior sales experience. Within six months, Devine was promoted to supervisor and then transitioned into a permanent leadership position.
“I faced a lot of rejection in the beginning, but my supervisors never gave up on me. That gave me the motivation to keep going.”
UBelong’s mentorship structure ensures you’re not alone. You’ll have access to people who’ve walked the same path and want to help you succeed.
7. How to Apply Step-by-Step
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to u-belong.co.za and click the “Apply Today” button.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
Submit basic info like your ID number, education level, and area.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
- A copy of your ID
- A certified copy of your school certificate
- Your updated CV
- Optional: a motivational letter
Step 4: Wait for a Call or SMS
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews or assessments.
Step 5: Attend an Interview or Screening Test
Interviews may be remote or in-person depending on your region. U‑Belong
Step 6: Get Your Training Dates
Once accepted, you’ll receive onboarding details and join a regional training team.
8. Top Application Tips
- Tailor your CV to highlight soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Be clear and honest about your education level and experience. U‑Belong
- Practice basic sales pitch techniques they may ask you to sell an item during the interview.
- Be punctual both for interviews and when responding to messages.
- Follow up after applying; a polite call or email shows initiative. U‑Belong
9. FAQs
Is the UBelong Learnership free?
Yes. There are no application or tuition fees.
Do I need a Matric certificate to apply?
No. Grade 10 or 11 is acceptable, but having Matric improves your chances.
Is this a job?
No, it’s a learnership. But it can lead to a job, either inside UBelong or elsewhere.
What products will I sell?
Starter packs, airtime, electricity, data, funeral cover, and more prepaid services.
Is UBelong available in my province?
The learnership operates in Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and more. Check the website or their social media for province-specific availability. U‑Belong
Can this help me work overseas?
While the certification is South African, the practical skills (sales, entrepreneurship, team leadership) are valuable worldwide.
10. Final Thoughts & Related Opportunities
The U‑Belong Learnership in 2025 offers more than just training. It gives you direction. In one year, you walk away with:
- A nationally recognized qualification
- A year of professional experience
- Practical entrepreneurship skills
- An income while you learn
If you’re under 35, passionate about business, and tired of waiting for opportunity to come knocking, this program is for you. Don’t sit back and watch others level up. Do something about your future. U‑Belong
