If you’re a South African student or recent graduate who can’t find a job right now, there’s a chance to jumpstart a career in a hands‑on trade. Sekhukhune TVET College, together with the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA), is offering a fully funded apprenticeship program for 2026. The program runs for 36 months, gives you real workplace experience, and ends with a nationally recognised trade certificate. Applications close on 30 January 2026, and the training will happen in Limpopo’s Sekhukhune District.
What the program looks like
- Type: Apprenticeship (Artisan Training)
- Length: 36 months
- Funding: MerSETA covers all costs
- Training partner: Sekhukhune TVET College
- Who can apply: Unemployed South African youth under 35 years old
- Application method: Email
This isn’t a short course you can finish in a few weeks. You’ll sign an official agreement that links your training to a job, ensuring you have a clear path to employment after you finish.
Apprenticeships available in 2026
Diesel Mechanic (Apprentice)
Who can apply?
- Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics, or
- NCV Level 4: Automotive Repair & Maintenance (21 subjects), or
- N2–N6 Mechanical Engineering (Diesel Trade Theory)
What will you do?
You’ll learn how to maintain and repair heavy vehicles, mining machines, construction equipment, and trucks.
Fitter & Turner (Apprentice)
Who can apply?
- Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics, or
- NCV Level 4: Fitting & Turning (21 subjects), or
- N2–N6 Mechanical Engineering (Fitter & Turner Trade Theory)
What will you do?
You’ll work in precision engineering, machining, and manufacturing, turning raw metal into finished parts.
Welder (Apprentice)
Who can apply?
- Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics, or
- NCV Level 2–4: Fabrication (21 subjects), or
- N2–N6 Mechanical Engineering
What will you do?
You’ll join fabricators who build steel structures for buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects.
Electrician (Apprentice)
Who can apply?
- Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics, or
- NCV Level 4: Electrical Infrastructure Construction (21 subjects), or
- N2–N6 Electrical Engineering
What will you do?
You’ll learn to install and maintain electrical systems in factories, construction sites, and power plants.
Key points to keep in mind
- You must be under 35 years of age.
- Graduates of Sekhukhune TVET College get a priority spot.
- All shortlisted people will go through an assessment.
- If you’re chosen, you’ll sign two formal contracts: one with the Education and Training Quality Assurance Agency (ETQA) and one that confirms your employment.
How to apply
Get your paperwork ready
Send a single e‑mail that contains:
• An application letter that says which apprenticeship you want
• A detailed CV
• Certified copies of your qualifications
• A certified copy of your South African IDSend it to the right address
Email your documents to COSCSBarlowC@sektvetcol.co.za.
Use a clear subject line such as “Application: Electrician Apprenticeship Programme 2026”.Need more info?
Contact Ms Mokabane DM at 013 269 0278. Office hours are 08:00 – 16:00.
Applications must be submitted before 30 January 2026. Late entries will not be taken into account.
Why you should consider this
South Africa still needs more skilled workers, especially in technical fields. A fully funded apprenticeship gives you a straightforward route into a stable job that pays well. You’ll learn in real work settings, get hands‑on practice, and finish with a certificate that employers recognise. After the 36‑month training, you’ll be ready to join a company and start earning.
If you’re under 35, not working right now, and ready to build a skillset that opens doors, this is a good chance. Check the requirements for the trade that interests you, gather your documents, and send your application before the deadline. Good luck!