TARDI Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship 2026 – R3 000 stipend

Right now the Tsolo Agriculture and Rural Development Institute is opening a Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship that could jump‑start your career, and the deadline is fast approaching.

What the apprenticeship is

You will work toward an Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic (Qualification ID 117237, NQF Level 4, 544 credits). The programme lasts 36 months and is based in Wadeville, Johannesburg, Gauteng. You will receive a monthly stipend of R3 000 while you study and practice.

Who can apply

  • South African citizen
  • Age between 18 and 33 years
  • Currently unemployed
  • At least an N2 qualification (or higher) in Diesel Mechanic, Mechanical Engineering, Motor Mechanics or a related engineering field
  • Passed Mathematics and either Engineering Science or Physical Science

Preferred candidates

  • Young people from the Eastern Cape
  • Graduates of TVET colleges
  • Female applicants
  • People with disabilities

What you will gain

  • Programme details
    • Qualification: Occupational Certificate – Diesel Mechanic
    • Duration: 36 months (25 places available)
    • Stipend: R3 000 per month
  • Training structure
    • Phase 1 – 6 months

      Institutional theory and practical work

    • Phase 2 – 24 months

      On‑the‑job experience at a workplace

    • Phase 3 – 6 months

      Trade‑test preparation and assessment

  • Training venue

    Try Easy Electrical Solutions, 181 Immelman Road, Unit 3, Wadeville, Johannesburg, Gauteng. You must be willing to relocate to Gauteng for the duration of the training.

  • Skills you will develop
    • Diesel engine maintenance and repair
    • Heavy‑equipment troubleshooting
    • Problem‑solving and technical drawing interpretation
    • Professional workplace habits and teamwork

How to apply

  1. Gather the required documents:
    • Detailed CV
    • Certified copy of your South African ID
    • Affidavit declaring you are unemployed
    • Certified copies of all qualifications and transcripts
    • Proof of residence
    • Motivation letter explaining why you want this apprenticeship
    • Proof of disability (if applicable)
    • Driver’s licence (optional)
    • Any other certificates that support your application
  2. Visit the official online portal and fill in the application form.
  3. Upload the scanned copies of the documents listed above.
  4. Review everything carefully and submit before the closing date.

Apply now: Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship Programme 2026 – Online Application

Tips to improve your chances

  • Check that every document is clearly scanned and correctly labelled.
  • Write a concise, honest motivation letter that shows your interest in diesel mechanics and your willingness to relocate.
  • Highlight any hands‑on experience, even informal, with engines or heavy equipment.
  • Proofread your CV for spelling or formatting errors.
  • If you belong to a preferred group (Eastern Cape, TVET graduate, female, or disabled), mention it prominently.

Next steps

Take a moment to collect the paperwork and start your application today. Even if you feel nervous, many applicants share the same concerns, and a complete, well‑presented file can set you apart. Good luck, and we hope to see you on the workshop floor soon.

Author: Donald Williams
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Donald is the founder and editor of Thapelo Madibeng Bursary, South Africa's trusted resource for bursaries, learnerships, internships, and funding opportunities. With a deep commitment to youth empowerment and educational access, Donald curates timely, verified updates to help students and unemployed youth unlock career pathways in various sectors.

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