In the next few weeks you can secure a paid, fully‑funded apprenticeship that will give you real‑world skills in a trade that’s always in demand. Mthashana TVET College Apprenticeship Programme is open for applications until 28 August 2026, so act now.
What the apprenticeship offers
Mthashana TVET College, with funding from LGSETA and CATHSSETA, is offering 83 paid apprenticeship places for 2026. The trades available are Electrician, Plumber and Chef. Each programme runs for 36 months and is completely funded – you will not pay registration, tuition or consumables.
Who can apply
The opportunity is aimed at unemployed South African citizens who are not currently studying. You must not have previously benefited from an apprenticeship programme. Specific academic requirements are:
- Electrician (22 spots – Nquthu Campus): Grade 12 with Mathematics (or Technical Mathematics) and Physical Sciences, or an N2 Electrician certificate.
- Plumber (30 spots – Nongoma Campus): Grade 12 with passes in English and Mathematical Literacy, or an N2 Plumbing certificate.
- Chef (31 spots – Vryheid Campus): Grade 12 with passes in English and Mathematical Literacy.
The college also encourages unemployed youth and persons with disabilities to apply.
What you will gain
- Hands‑on training in a high‑skill trade.
- A nationally recognised qualification at the end of the 36‑month period.
- A monthly stipend (exact amount not disclosed).
- Potential job opportunities with employers who recognise the apprenticeship.
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the Mthashana TVET College Student Portal: apply online.
- Create a new account and set up your student profile.
- Select the year 2026 and choose the campus that matches your trade (Nquthu for Electrician, Nongoma for Plumber, Vryheid for Chef).
- Find the “Apprenticeship – 36 months” programme and click to start the application.
- Enter your personal details and select the trade you wish to pursue.
- Upload the required documents (see below).
- Review the information and submit the application before the deadline.
Required supporting documents
- Certified copy of your South African ID (recent).
- Certified Grade 12 certificate.
- If you hold an N2 qualification, upload the N2 certificate together with your Grade 12 certificate.
- Proof of residence (recent utility bill, lease, etc.).
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that your Grade 12 subjects match the trade requirements before you apply.
- Ensure all documents are clear, legible and correctly certified.
- Submit your application well before the 28 August deadline to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
- If you have an N2 certificate, include it – it can be an alternative to the Grade 12 subject criteria.
- Read the FAQs on the student portal; many common questions are answered there.
Next steps
Prepare your documents now and start the online application as soon as possible. If you have questions, contact the Occupational Programmes Unit at Mthashana TVET College on 034 980 1010 or email Info.Skills@mthashana.edu.za. Remember, the closing date is 28 August 2026 – don’t miss this chance to kick‑start a rewarding career.
