If you’re a young South African looking to build your career, gain valuable workplace experience, and earn while you learn, then SETA learnerships in 2025 are an opportunity you can’t afford to miss. These programmes are designed to equip unemployed youth with the skills they need to enter the workforce—and they’re 100% free to join.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what SETA learnerships are, who qualifies, how to apply, how much you can earn, and where to find the latest opportunities.
What is a SETA Learnership?
A SETA learnership is a formal education and training programme linked to a specific field of work. It is offered by the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) in South Africa, which are government-regulated organisations responsible for skills development in various industries.
These programmes combine:
- Theoretical learning (usually classroom or online training)
- Practical training (hands-on experience in a real work environment)
The goal is to produce work-ready graduates with recognised NQF qualifications.
What Are the 21 SETAs in South Africa?
Each SETA is responsible for a different economic sector. Here are some of the most popular ones:
| SETA Name | Sector |
|---|---|
| MICT SETA | IT, Communications, Electronics |
| FASSET SETA | Finance, Accounting, Auditing |
| Services SETA | Customer Service, Retail |
| CETA | Construction and Building |
| MerSETA | Manufacturing and Engineering |
| HWSETA | Health and Social Development |
| ETDP SETA | Education and Training |
| AGRISETA | Agriculture |
| FOODBEV SETA | Food and Beverage Manufacturing |
| TETA | Transport and Logistics |
Each of these SETAs offers a range of learnerships suited to learners with different education levels.
Who Qualifies for a SETA Learnership in 2025?
SETA learnerships are aimed at:
- Unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 35
- South African citizens with a valid ID
- People with Matric (Grade 12) or lower (some learnerships accept Grade 9 or 10)
- TVET college students, graduates, and individuals with N4–N6 or higher education
- People with disabilities (many SETAs offer inclusive programmes)
✅ You do not need to pay to join a learnership. SETA learnerships are free and come with a monthly stipend!
What You Need to Apply
When applying for a SETA learnership, prepare the following documents:
- Updated CV
- Certified ID copy (not older than 3 months)
- Certified copy of your highest qualification (Matric, N6, etc.)
- Proof of residence (affidavit or utility bill)
- Motivation letter
- Banking confirmation letter (if requested)
- Disability documentation (if applicable)
Benefits of SETA Learnerships
- Earn a monthly stipend while learning (typically R3,500–R6,500)
- Gain work experience in a real job environment
- Improve employability with a recognised qualification (NQF Level 2 to 5)
- Network with professionals and companies in your industry
- Pathway to permanent employment or internships after completion
How Much is the SETA Stipend in 2025?
The stipend depends on the sector and programme level. Here’s a rough estimate:
| Sector | Monthly Stipend (2025) |
|---|---|
| Information Technology | R5,000 – R6,500 |
| Construction | R3,800 – R5,200 |
| Retail/Services | R4,000 – R5,000 |
| Finance & Accounting | R4,500 – R6,000 |
| Education & Training | R4,000 – R5,500 |
| Health & Wellness | R4,000 – R5,800 |
Stipends are meant to cover transport and basic living costs during your learnership.
Types of Learnerships Available
There are hundreds of learnerships across industries. Some examples include:
- Business Administration (NQF 4)
- Electrical Engineering (NQF 3–5)
- Generic Management (NQF 4–5)
- Call Centre or Customer Service (NQF 2–4)
- Project Management (NQF 4)
- IT Technical Support (NQF 4–5)
- Human Resources Management
- Professional Cookery / Hospitality
- Early Childhood Development (ECD)
Many of these are offered by training providers accredited by SETAs.
How to Apply for a SETA Learnership in 2025
Follow this 5-step process:
Step 1: Search for Learnerships
Visit the following sites regularly:
- www.sa-seta.com
- www.skillsportal.co.za
- www.sayouth.mobi
- www.careerpage.co.za
- www.seta.org.za
- Social media pages of popular SETAs (Facebook, LinkedIn)
Step 2: Choose a Relevant Programme
Pick a programme aligned with your interests and highest qualification. For example:
- If you have N6 in Business Management, apply for Generic Management Learnerships.
- If you have Matric with Maths, apply for Accounting or IT Learnerships.
Step 3: Submit Your Documents
Email or upload your documents to the designated application platform. Ensure all copies are:
- Certified within 3 months
- Clear and readable
Step 4: Prepare for Assessments
You may be invited to:
- Attend an interview
- Write an assessment or aptitude test
- Participate in a group exercise
Step 5: Sign Your Learnership Agreement
If selected, you will sign a Learnership Agreement with the SETA, the employer, and the training provider.
Avoid Scams
Legitimate SETA learnerships will never ask for a fee to apply or register. Warning signs of scams include:
- Asking for money upfront
- Promising guaranteed placement
- No traceable company or contact information
- Fake WhatsApp adverts
✅ Always verify programmes via official SETA or training provider websites.
Real-Life Example: MICT SETA Learnership 2025
Here’s a sample opportunity:
Programme: IT Technical Support Learnership (NQF Level 4)
Duration: 12 months
Location: Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban
Stipend: R6,000 per month
Requirements:
- South African ID
- Grade 12 with Maths or Computer Applications
- Basic computer skills
- Unemployed and available full-time
How to Apply:
Send your CV, ID, and Matric certificate to: [email protected]
Where to Apply for SETA Learnerships in 2025
| Website | Description |
|---|---|
| www.sa-seta.com | Central portal for SETA programmes |
| www.skillsportal.co.za | Daily listings of learnerships & internships |
| www.sayouth.mobi | Youth-focused job & learnership board |
| www.careerpage.co.za | Trusted learnership listings |
| SETA websites (e.g., www.mict.org.za) | Direct access to SETA-specific programmes |
SETA learnerships in 2025 are a golden opportunity for unemployed youth to gain industry-relevant skills, earn a stipend, and work towards a formal qualification. Whether you’ve just finished Matric, completed your N6, or are looking for a new career path, there’s a learnership designed for you.
🎯 Start early, prepare your documents, apply to multiple opportunities, and stay persistent. Your future starts with one application!