🌍 2026 SETA Learnership Opportunities in South Africa – Earn While You Learn

SETA learnership programmes remain one of the most effective ways for young South Africans to gain practical skills, formal qualifications, and real workplace exposure. For 2026, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) are expected to fund thousands of paid learnership opportunities across multiple industries.

These programmes are designed to support unemployed youth, school leavers, and entry-level job seekers who want to build sustainable careers while earning a monthly stipend.

🔎 How SETA Learnerships Work

A SETA learnership is a formal skills development programme that combines classroom-based learning with on-the-job training. Learners sign a learnership agreement with a training provider and a host employer.

Unlike short courses, learnerships are registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), meaning successful learners receive a nationally recognised qualification that is valued by employers across South Africa.

Learnerships typically run for 12 months, although technical or artisan-related programmes may extend beyond this period.

🏗 Learnership Sectors Expected in 2026

For 2026, learnerships are expected to be available in high-demand sectors such as:

Business Administration and Office Practice
Retail, Wholesale, and Merchandising
Information Technology and Digital Support
Financial Services and Accounting
Public Administration and Government Services
Health Care and Community Development
Tourism, Hospitality, and Travel Services
Construction, Engineering, and Technical Trades
Agriculture and Environmental Management

Each SETA focuses on industry-specific skills to ensure learners are job-ready upon completion.

👥 Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Most SETA learnership programmes for 2026 target:

South African citizens
Youth aged 18–35 years
Unemployed individuals
Applicants with Grade 10, Grade 12, or higher qualifications
Individuals willing to commit for the full learnership period

People living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply, as many SETAs have dedicated disability-focused programmes.

💵 Stipend and Benefits

Learners receive several benefits, including:

✔ Monthly stipend funded by government
✔ Practical work experience
✔ Accredited training and certification
✔ Mentorship and workplace supervision
✔ Increased employability after completion

While a learnership does not guarantee permanent employment, many learners are absorbed by host employers once the programme ends.

📑 Documents Needed for Application

Applicants should prepare:

Updated CV
Certified copy of South African ID
Certified copies of school or tertiary qualifications
Academic records or transcripts
Motivational letter (optional but recommended)
Proof of residence (if required)

Submitting complete and accurate documents improves your chances of selection.

🌐 Official SETA Learnership Application Platforms

Always apply through official SETA websites or approved partners:

Public Service SETA (PSETA): https://www.pseta.org.za
Media, ICT SETA (MICT): https://www.mict.org.za
Finance SETA (FASSET): https://www.fasset.org.za
Education SETA (ETDP): https://www.etdpseta.org.za
Health & Welfare SETA (HWSETA): https://www.hwseta.org.za
Construction SETA (CETA): https://www.ceta.org.za
Tourism SETA (CATHSSETA): https://www.cathsseta.org.za
Agriculture SETA (AgriSETA): https://www.agriseta.co.za

⚠️ Never pay for a learnership placement. All SETA programmes are free to apply for.

⏰ Application Period for 2026

Most SETA learnership vacancies for 2026 will be advertised between November 2025 and March 2026, depending on funding approvals and employer participation. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as placements are limited.

🔑 Tips to Improve Your Chances

Apply to more than one SETA
Ensure your CV is clear and professional
Use a valid email address and phone number
Monitor SETA websites weekly
Avoid recruitment scams