Standard Bank has opened applications for its Data Science Learnership programme in Johannesburg, offering young South Africans an opportunity to gain practical workplace experience while completing a nationally recognised qualification.
The learnership will be based at 5 Simmonds Street, Johannesburg and/or 30 Baker Street, Rosebank, and is offered on a 24-month contract. It forms part of the bank’s commitment to developing future talent in data science and analytics.
The main purpose of this opportunity is to equip participants with practical data science skills through structured workplace learning combined with formal training. Learners will contribute to data-driven audit activities while developing technical and professional capabilities.
The ideal candidate is a South African citizen under the age of 30 who has completed an undergraduate qualification in a relevant quantitative or technology-related field and is eager to build a career in data science.
Successful learners will receive a monthly stipend of R15,000, together with student medical aid. The programme is scheduled to begin on 1 October 2026. No closing date is stated in the advertisement.
Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
What is the Data Science Learnership opportunity?
This learnership is an entry-level development programme that combines classroom-based learning with practical workplace experience. Participants will complete the Occupational Certificate: Data Science Practitioner while working alongside experienced professionals.
The opportunity falls within Standard Bank’s Group Functions division and supports the organisation’s objective of developing future data professionals who can use analytical methods to improve business decision-making and strengthen audit processes.
Learners will assist with data analysis, support audit-related projects, identify meaningful insights from information, and help maintain organised datasets and analytical outputs. Their work contributes to improving operational efficiency, identifying potential risks, and supporting evidence-based business decisions.
Why could this opportunity be valuable?
This programme allows participants to build practical data science skills while gaining real workplace experience in one of Africa’s largest financial institutions.
Learners will develop analytical thinking, data handling, reporting, problem-solving, time management, collaboration, and an understanding of data governance. They will also gain exposure to professional auditing environments and business operations.
The experience gained can support future careers in data science, business intelligence, analytics, internal auditing, financial services, consulting, technology, engineering, and many other industries that rely on data-driven decision-making.
Employers value candidates who have both recognised qualifications and practical workplace experience, making this type of learnership an excellent foundation for long-term career growth.
Quick Overview
Item Details Opportunity Data Science Learnership Company Standard Bank Location 5 Simmonds Street, Johannesburg and/or 30 Baker Street, Rosebank Closing Date Not specified Salary/Stipend R15,000 per month plus Student Medical Aid Employment Type 24-month Contract Industry Financial Services Target Group South African citizens under 30 years of age Application Method Apply online through the advertised application link
What will successful candidates do?
Successful learners will work with experienced professionals while developing practical data science knowledge through structured workplace exposure. They will assist with analysing information, supporting audit activities, and producing data-driven insights that contribute to business improvement.
Participants will also learn how to organise analytical work professionally, follow governance requirements, and communicate findings clearly while developing the technical and workplace skills expected from entry-level data science practitioners.
Main responsibilities include:
- Assisting with clearly defined data analysis tasks that support audit activities.
- Performing data analysis using approved methods to identify trends, anomalies, and control weaknesses.
- Preparing evidence-based findings and supporting recommendations.
- Organising datasets, analytical code, and reports while following data governance standards.
Who should apply?
This opportunity is suited to graduates who want to begin a career in data science, analytics, technology, or related fields within the financial services industry.
Applicants should hold an undergraduate qualification in Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Econometrics, Quantitative Analysis, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong analytical ability, logical thinking, attention to detail, curiosity, teamwork, adaptability, accountability, and an interest in technology and financial decision-making.
No previous work experience, driver’s licence, or professional certification is mentioned in the advertisement.
Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be under 30 years of age.
- Must be able to speak, read and write English.
- Must not be registered on any other learnership or internship programme.
- Must not be studying at any other institution.
- Must hold an undergraduate qualification in one of the following (or a related discipline):
- Information Technology or Computer Science
- Data Science
- Statistics or Mathematics
- Econometrics or Quantitative Analysis
- Engineering
Salary or Stipend
Successful learners will receive a monthly stipend of R15,000 for the duration of the programme.
The advertisement also includes Student Medical Aid as an employment benefit.
Important Working Conditions
The programme is offered on a 24-month contract and is scheduled to commence on 1 October 2026.
Work will be based at 5 Simmonds Street, Johannesburg and/or 30 Baker Street, Rosebank.
No additional working conditions were specified in the advertisement.
Insider Tip
Insider Tip: Tailor your CV to highlight university projects involving data analysis, statistics, programming, mathematics, or research. During interviews, be prepared to explain how you approach solving problems logically and demonstrate your interest in using data to support business decisions.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted online using the application link provided in the job advertisement.
The advertisement does not specify a closing date, so interested applicants should apply as early as possible.
Before submitting your application, ensure that all information is accurate and complete. No specific supporting documents are listed in the advertisement.
Final Thoughts
This learnership is an excellent opportunity for graduates who want to build a career in data science while gaining practical experience within the financial services sector.
Participants will complete a recognised qualification, receive workplace exposure, and develop valuable technical and professional skills that are in demand across many industries.
Although no closing date has been provided, interested applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.
Applicants who meet the requirements should submit their application before the closing date.