Dis-Chem Pharmacies Learnerships 2025 – Dispensary Support Training Opportunity

The healthcare and pharmaceutical industry in South Africa continues to grow rapidly, creating demand for skilled professionals who can deliver quality service to patients and customers. To support this growth and empower the country’s youth, Dis-Chem Pharmacies is offering the 2025 Dispensary Support Learnership Programme.

This programme is designed for young South Africans who are passionate about healthcare, medicine, and customer service. It provides structured training, hands-on workplace experience, and an opportunity to work under the guidance of qualified pharmacists. If you are eager to begin your journey in the pharmaceutical industry, this learnership could be your stepping stone.

What Is the Dis-Chem Pharmacies Learnership Programme?

The Dis-Chem Learnership 2025 focuses on training participants for Dispensary Support roles. This means learners will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to succeed in a pharmacy environment.

The programme is ideal for:

• School leavers seeking their first career opportunity.
• Unemployed youth who want to build a future in healthcare.
• Individuals who are eager to grow within one of South Africa’s largest pharmacy groups.

By combining classroom training with on-the-job experience, the programme equips learners with the qualifications and workplace readiness needed for long-term success.

Duties and Responsibilities of Learners

As a participant in the Dis-Chem Learnership 2025, you will take on various responsibilities within the pharmacy and dispensary environment. These include:

• Customer Assistance – Helping patients and customers with the purchase of Schedule 1 medicines and over-the-counter health products.
• Dispensary Support – Preparing and compounding non-sterile medications according to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Stock Management – Organising, unpacking, and merchandising pharmacy stock, ensuring dispensary shelves are neat and up to standard.
• Prescription Handling – Learning how to read and interpret prescriptions under the guidance of qualified professionals, while following legal and ethical rules.
• Medication Preparation – Picking, packing, labelling, and verifying medicines to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Inventory Control – Monitoring stock levels, checking expiry dates, and assisting in stock rotation to avoid wastage.
• Patient Engagement – Following up with patients about prescription refills, chronic medication schedules, and upcoming appointments.
• Call Centre Support – Handling queries related to medical schemes, chronic medication orders, and healthcare advice.
• Health Guidance – Providing information on basic health issues, family planning products, and complementary medicines.
• Reporting & Administration – Reporting stock shortages, assisting with receiving new inventory, and ensuring records are accurate.

Through these duties, learners develop a holistic understanding of pharmacy operations and customer care.

Skills and Competencies Required

Success in this learnership depends not only on meeting the minimum criteria but also on possessing certain skills and personal qualities.

Essential Skills:

• Fluency in English and at least one other official South African language.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and time management.
• Excellent customer service skills with a professional and friendly approach.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Computer literacy and basic numeracy.

Advantageous Skills (not mandatory but beneficial):

• Previous experience in retail, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), or within a Dis-Chem store.
• Familiarity with pharmacy software such as Unisolv, SAP, and E-Scripting.
• Basic knowledge of complementary medicines and health-related products.

These competencies ensure learners can handle the technical and customer-focused aspects of pharmacy work.

Who Can Apply for the 2025 Learnership?

To qualify for the Dis-Chem Pharmacies Dispensary Support Learnership, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
• Have a clear criminal and credit record (checks will be conducted).
• Be able to pass a pharmacy proficiency test for registration with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC).
• Be committed to completing the full duration of the programme.

Dis-Chem places strong emphasis on professionalism and integrity, ensuring that candidates are well-suited for a healthcare environment.

Benefits of Joining the Dis-Chem Learnership

The Dispensary Support Learnership offers more than just short-term training. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Market-Related Stipend – Learners receive financial support during the programme.
2. National Recognition – Upon completion, learners may progress toward a pharmacy qualification recognised by the SAPC.
3. Workplace Readiness – Learners gain hands-on experience in real pharmacy environments.
4. Mentorship – Guidance from qualified pharmacists and experienced staff helps learners build confidence.
5. Career Growth – Successful participants often find permanent positions within Dis-Chem or use the qualification to advance in the wider healthcare sector.

This makes the programme an excellent opportunity for young South Africans to build a long-term career in pharmacy and healthcare.

How to Apply for the Dis-Chem Learnership 2025

Interested candidates can apply directly via the Dis-Chem Pharmacies careers portal or through advertised job boards and recruitment partners. To ensure your application stands out:

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1. Prepare your documents – Updated CV, certified ID, and Matric certificate.
2. Write a motivation letter – Explain why you want to join the learnership and how it aligns with your career goals.
3. Apply before the deadline – Late applications are rarely considered.
4. Prepare for assessments – Be ready for pharmacy proficiency tests and interviews.
5. Show professionalism – From email communication to interviews, maintain a professional image.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Double-check that all documents are valid and certified within the past three months.
• Apply as early as possible to avoid system overload near the deadline.
• Be clear and concise in your CV and motivation letter.
• Research basic pharmacy knowledge to prepare for assessments.
• Apply for multiple opportunities if possible to increase your chances.

Final Thoughts

The Dis-Chem Pharmacies Learnerships 2025 provide an exceptional opportunity for young South Africans to build a career in pharmacy and healthcare. By combining structured training, workplace experience, and mentorship, the programme equips learners with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a competitive industry.

Whether you’re a school leaver or an unemployed youth seeking career growth, this learnership offers a solid foundation to become part of South Africa’s healthcare future. With commitment, passion, and hard work, the Dis-Chem Learnership could be your first step toward a rewarding professional journey.