Ready to start a career that protects your community? Sundays River Valley Municipality is looking for unemployed South African youth living in the municipality to join its Firefighter Learnership Programme 2026/2027. The deadline is 21 August 2026 at 12:00 pm – don’t wait.
What the programme is
The municipality will take on three Firefighter Learners for a twelve‑month, hands‑on training programme. You will work in the fire services of Paterson, Addo and Nqweba (Eastern Cape) and earn a monthly stipend of R5 000.
Who can apply
To be eligible you must meet all of the following:
- South African citizen, aged 18–35
- Grade 12 or equivalent
- Valid Code B (08) driver’s licence
- Physically fit – able to work at heights, in confined spaces and carry a dead load
- No criminal record
- Live within the Sundays River Valley municipal area
Knowledge of disaster management is a plus, but not required.
What you will gain
- Practical firefighting experience in real‑world settings
- Skills in community safety, risk management and emergency response
- A nationally recognised learnership certificate
- Networking opportunities with fire service professionals
- Financial support while you train (R5 000 per month)
How to apply – step by step
- Download the Sundays River Valley Municipality application form (available at the Skills Development Facilitator’s office).
- Complete the form in clear, legible handwriting.
- Prepare the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copies of your Grade 12 certificate (and any other qualifications)
- Motivational letter explaining why you want to become a firefighter
- Package the form and all supporting documents together.
- Deliver the complete package in person to:
Office of the Skills Development Facilitator
Sundays River Valley Municipality
23 Middle Street
Nqweba
6120 - Make sure you submit before the deadline – 21 August 2026, 12:00 pm.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that every document is certified and legible.
- Keep your motivational letter concise (150‑200 words) and focus on your passion for safety and community service.
- Practice the physical fitness tests – a 200‑m run, push‑ups, sit‑ups, dead‑load carry, ladder climb, and the claustrophobia/acrophobia assessments.
- If you have any experience in disaster management or volunteering with local emergency services, highlight it.
- Arrive early to submit your application; it shows commitment and avoids last‑minute issues.
Final thoughts
This learnership offers a clear pathway into a respected and rewarding field. Even though only three places are available, meeting the requirements and presenting a well‑prepared application can put you ahead of the competition. Gather your documents, practice the fitness tests, and submit your application before 12 noon on 21 August 2026. Good luck – the fire service could be your next career step.
