
Free State Oil New Venture Creation Learnership 2026: Welcoming Unemployed Candidates to Receive New Knowledge
About Free State Oil
Free State Oil (FSO) was founded in 2011 as part of the growth of South Africa’s soybean processing sector. This development was largely driven by the rising availability of locally produced soybeans and the strategic need to reduce reliance on imported soybean meal and oil. Situated in Villiers in the Free State province, the plant officially commenced operations in September 2012, with the capacity to process approximately 150,000 tons of soybeans per year. From the outset, FSO has focused on producing premium-quality soybean meal and oil, while creating a reliable market for local soybean farmers and strengthening domestic agro-processing capabilities.
As a key link in the agricultural value chain, FSO distributes its products to a broad range of customers, including home mixers and animal feed manufacturers, particularly those associated with the VKB Group. By supplying essential raw materials for livestock feed, the company plays an important role in reinforcing the feed supply chain, which in turn supports food security and the consistent production of poultry products for consumers. Furthermore, the growing demand for locally cultivated soybeans has motivated farmers to improve crop rotation systems, promoting more sustainable farming practices.
About the Free State Oil New Venture Creation Learnership 2026
Free State Oil is searching for candidates who would like to obtain theoretical knowledge and practical skills in New Venture Creation through their learnership. The Free State Oil New Venture Creation Learnership is currently seeking candidates who have completed their matric and are interested in gaining practical experience through a learnership opportunity. This programme is aimed at individuals who are eager to develop workplace skills while being exposed to a structured training environment.
As part of the on-the-job learning experience, learners will support cleaning operations alongside appointed cleaning contractors. Their responsibilities will include performing scheduled daily cleaning duties and ensuring that processing equipment and production lines are cleaned according to required hygiene and quality standards, which are monitored through sample testing. Learners will be expected to complete the full 12-month learnership at the FSO premises and successfully carry out all assigned coursework and practical tasks as part of the programme.
The Free State Oil New Venture Creation Learnership is based in this location: Villiers, Free State.
Eligibility Criteria
Before submitting your application, carefully examine the eligibility requirements for the Free State Oil New Venture Creation Learnership. These requirements play a crucial role in determining whether you are an appropriate candidate for the programme. Reviewing each criterion will help you assess if you meet the necessary qualifications and expectations associated with the opportunity.
The Free State Oil New Venture Creation Learnership Eligibility Criteria are as follows:
- Hold a Grade 12 qualification
- Read, understand, and write effectively in English
- Be currently unemployed
- Reside in Villiers or the surrounding areas
- Fall within the age range of 18 to 32 years
- Demonstrate a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn
- Work comfortably in confined spaces
- Perform tasks safely at elevated heights
- Collaborate effectively as a member of a team
The VKB Group is an equal opportunity employer. Its approved Employment Equity Plan and targets are applied during the recruitment process in line with the Group’s Employment Equity and Transformation Strategy. VKB Group also actively encourages and supports the employment of people with disabilities.
Application Instructions
Apply online Free State Oil New Venture Creation Learnership 2026 at:
- Villiers, Free State (Closing date: 08 March 2026)
Please follow the application instructions below:
- For the best user experience, access the online portal using Google Chrome, as it provides optimal compatibility and performance
- Enter your personal information into the required fields, making sure all details are accurate, complete, and current to prevent any problems
- As each application is carefully assessed by the selection committee, review your information thoroughly to avoid errors or missing details
- Upload all required documents, including a 300 × 300 pixel profile photograph and your Curriculum Vitae (CV), as these are necessary to process your application
- Ensure that your CV is saved in PDF or Word format, as handwritten documents will not be accepted under any circumstances
- By submitting your application, you confirm your consent for the selection committee to collect and use your personal information for registration and processing purposes
- Applications must be submitted only through the official online portal; submissions made via hand delivery, fax, or other methods will not be accepted
Closing Date
Applications for the Free State Oil New Venture Creation Learnership must be submitted before the closing date on 08 March 2026.
To improve your chances of success, it is advisable to submit your application as early as possible. Applying early helps keep your application active in the selection process and provides a strong starting position, although it does not guarantee an immediate outcome.