Introduction
South Africa’s youth unemployment rate remains a critical challenge. In response, government and private sector initiatives like SETA Learnerships and free online courses are bridging the gap between education and employment. Whether you’re a matriculant or graduate, these 24-month learnerships and alternative training options can help you gain valuable skills, earn a stipend, and improve your employability.
In this post, we’ll explore FREE online courses available in 2025, provide a comprehensive list of 24-month SETA-aligned learnerships and training programmes, and share practical tips to help you apply.
Why SETA-Aligned Learnerships Matter
SETA stands for the Sector Education and Training Authority, a government body established to develop skills across key industries. SETA-accredited learnerships are:
- Nationally recognised
- Free to enrol
- Often include monthly stipends
- Blend theoretical learning with practical workplace experience
But due to high demand, not everyone gets placed in a traditional SETA learnership. That’s where SETA-aligned alternative training providers and free online courses step in.
FREE Online Courses in South Africa – 2025
Thanks to various partnerships and digital innovation, South Africans now have access to zero-cost online training. These courses are often funded by government departments, NGOs, and corporates.
Top Platforms Offering Free Courses in 2025:
1. Coursera (Free via Department of Communications & Digital Technologies)
- Courses: Data Science, Cybersecurity, Project Management
- Certificate: Yes
- Duration: 4–8 weeks
- https://www.coursera.org
2. Alison
- Courses: Customer Service, Entrepreneurship, IT Skills
- Certificate: Free (Digital)
- https://alison.com
3. Grow with Google – Africa
- Courses: Digital Marketing, IT Support, Career Development
- https://grow.google/intl/ssa
4. FutureLearn (UKSA Sponsored)
- Courses: Business, Sustainability, Health
- https://www.futurelearn.com
5. Microsoft & LinkedIn Learning for Youth
- Courses: Office 365, Coding, Career Skills
- https://opportunity.linkedin.com
SETA-Aligned Alternative Learnerships (24-Month Programmes) – 2025
These alternative SETA learnerships are delivered by private training providers but remain fully accredited and aligned with national qualifications. Many are funded through companies’ Skills Development levies.
1. iLearn – Business Administration & ICT Learnership (24 months)
- Accredited by: Services SETA & MICT SETA
- Entry: Grade 12 or NQF 4
- Stipend: Yes
- Link: https://www.ilearn.co.za
2. Red & Yellow Creative School of Business – Digital Marketing Learnership
- Accredited by: MICT SETA
- Duration: 24 Months
- Focus: SEO, PPC, Content Marketing
- Link: https://www.redandyellow.co.za
3. Optimum Learning Technologies – Wholesale & Retail Operations
- SETA: W&RSETA
- NQF Level 4
- Open to: Unemployed youth aged 18–35
- Website: https://optimumlearn.co.za
4. Summit Training – Hospitality & Tourism Learnerships
- SETA: CATHSSETA
- Includes: Workplace placements in hotels/lodges
- Duration: 24 months
- Apply: https://www.summittraining.co.za
5. Academy Training Group – Educare & ECD Learnerships
- SETA: ETDP SETA
- Focus: Early Childhood Development
- Stipend: Available for selected learners
- Website: https://academytraining.co.za
What’s the Difference Between SETA & Alternative Training?
| Feature | SETA Learnership | Alternative (SETA-Aligned) |
|---|---|---|
| Funded By | Direct SETA | Private Sector (Skills Levies) |
| Registered With | Department of Labour & SETA | SETA |
| Application | Via government portal or email | Through training providers |
| Duration | 12–24 months | Often 24 months |
| Cost | Free | Free |
| Stipend | Yes | Yes (usually) |
How to Apply for a Learnership in 2025
Follow these simple steps to apply for a SETA or SETA-aligned learnership:
✅ Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- Certified ID copy
- Updated CV (include contact details)
- Certified copies of your qualifications
✅ Step 2: Register on Online Portals
- ESSA Labour Portal
- Skills Portal Learnerships
- Individual provider websites (see links above)
✅ Step 3: Check Your Email Often
Providers often request interviews or send assessments via email or WhatsApp.
✅ Step 4: Never Pay to Apply!
Legitimate learnerships do not require payment. If asked for money, report the scam to SAQA or your local SETA.
Pro Tips to Boost Your Application
- Apply early – spaces fill quickly.
- Use professional language in your CV and emails.
- Include a motivation letter (brief paragraph explaining why you want to join).
- Stay active on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook learnership groups, and community centres.
Summary: Opportunities in 2025
South Africans looking to grow their skills in 2025 have more options than ever before. Whether you’re learning online or attending a 24-month accredited programme, what matters is taking action. These courses and learnerships not only offer skills — they open doors.
