Unlock Potential and Achieve Your Goals: Skills Development Training
Skills Development Training – Investing in skills development training for your workforce, can improve their job performance, increase productivity and ultimately enhance the overall quality of your products or services. In South Africa, businesses are required to comply with the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act, which mandates a certain level of skills development and training for employees.
Edge Training is a registered Training Company offering learnership qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). At our training company, we offer a range of learnerships and courses that can help your business meet its skills development goals, as well as comply with B-BBEE requirements. With our skilled facilitators and subject matter experts we can help you with tailor-made skills development solutions by provide comprehensive training that is specific to your industry and business needs.
Invest in the skills development of your workforce today and position your business for long-term success
ACCREDITED LEARNERSHIPS
Training through Accredited Learnerships across different industries and sectors
Accredited Short Courses
We offer Accredited Short Courses that cover various skills within the workplace
SOFT SKILLS TRAINING WORKSHOPS
We offer One Day Soft Skills Workshops in internationally recognised sales, service and management concepts
ONLINE WORKSHOPS
We offer Tailor-made Workshops for your entire staff at one low monthly premium
Introduction to Skills Development in South Africa
South Africa faces ongoing challenges with unemployment, especially among the youth. To combat this, the government, through the Skills Development Act, has established Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). These bodies play a critical role in bridging the gap between education and employability by offering SETA accredited learnerships.
These learnerships provide practical work experience and theoretical training, making them a valuable tool in skills development training. Whether you’re a job seeker, student, or business owner, understanding how SETA learnerships work can unlock significant benefits.
What Are SETA Accredited Learnerships?
A learnership is a structured learning programme that combines theoretical instruction with practical workplace experience. Learnerships are registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and accredited by relevant SETAs.
They typically run for 12 months and lead to a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) qualification. Learnerships are open to both employed and unemployed individuals and are designed to:
- Equip learners with job-ready skills
- Align workforce training with industry needs
- Increase employment opportunities
Examples include learnerships in retail, finance, construction, IT, agriculture, and more.
Why Skills Development Training Matters
1. Reduces Youth Unemployment
South Africa’s youth unemployment rate remains one of the highest in the world. Skills development training through accredited learnerships equips young people with relevant workplace skills and real-world experience, making them more employable.
2. Closes the Skills Gap
Many industries report a shortage of skilled labour. Learnerships help close this gap by developing a pipeline of qualified candidates trained in alignment with sector-specific needs.
3. Boosts National Economic Growth
A more skilled workforce directly contributes to improved productivity, innovation, and economic competitiveness. Businesses that invest in learnerships help build a stronger economy while developing their future talent pool.
Key Benefits of SETA Accredited Learnerships Skills Development Training
For Learners:
- Earn While You Learn: Learners often receive a stipend during the programme.
- Nationally Recognised Qualification: Learnerships lead to accredited qualifications.
- Real Workplace Experience: Learners gain practical experience that enhances their CV.
- Increased Employment Prospects: Employers favour candidates with hands-on experience.
For Employers:
- B-BBEE Scorecard Points: Participating in learnerships boosts your Skills Development points.
- Tax Incentives: Employers can claim up to R60,000 in tax deductions per learner.
- Workplace Productivity: Staff trained through learnerships are more competent and efficient.
- Talent Pipeline: Businesses can groom future employees with skills tailored to their operations.
Popular SETA Learnerships Skills Development Training in South Africa
Here are some of the most in-demand learnerships available through SETAs:
- WRSETA (Wholesale & Retail): Retail management, supply chain, and sales.
- MICTSETA (Media & ICT): IT support, software development, and digital marketing.
- AGRISETA: Agriculture and agri-business skills.
- BANKSETA: Banking, financial services, and credit management.
- CATHSSETA: Hospitality, tourism, and sports management.
- TETA: Transport, logistics, and freight handling.
Each SETA focuses on its specific sector and partners with accredited training providers and employers to deliver quality programmes.
How to Apply for a Skills Development Training Learnership
For Individuals:
- Research Available Learnerships: Visit the websites of different SETAs or look for postings on job portals and training provider sites.
- Check Eligibility: Most programmes require a Grade 12 certificate, though some accept lower NQF levels.
- Prepare a CV: Include academic records and relevant personal details.
- Submit an Application: Follow the instructions provided—most learnerships have specific deadlines.
For Employers:
- Identify Skills Needs: Decide which qualifications would benefit your business.
- Register with a SETA: Your company must be registered and compliant with the relevant SETA.
- Partner with Training Providers: Choose accredited training providers to handle the theoretical component.
- Apply for Funding: You may qualify for discretionary grants and tax rebates.
- Recruit Learners: Interview and select suitable candidates.
The Role of Training Providers
SETA-accredited training providers are essential partners in delivering learnerships. They are responsible for:
- Offering curriculum-based theoretical training
- Monitoring learner progress
- Ensuring compliance with SETA standards
- Submitting assessments and reports
Businesses should always verify that their training provider is accredited to ensure funding eligibility and qualification recognition.
RELATED:
- FoodBev SETA Work Integrated Learning Programme 2025
- Services SETA: Strategy and Research Internship 2025
- CETA – Supply Chain / Legal / Finance Internships in South Africa
- SETA Accredited PnS Learnership Programme 2025
- ETDP SETA: Unlocking Potential Through Education and Training
Compliance and B-BBEE Benefits
Skills development is a priority element on the B-BBEE scorecard, accounting for a substantial number of points. Participating in learnerships helps businesses:
- Meet compliance targets
- Improve their B-BBEE level
- Access procurement opportunities with government and corporates
The government offers incentives for companies that actively support youth development and job creation through learnerships, making it both a social and financial win.
Real Stories: Learnerships Changing Lives
Thabo, a 22-year-old from Soweto, completed a WRSETA learnership in Retail Operations. After a year of training and work experience at a major retail chain, he was offered a permanent position. Today, Thabo manages a team of five and mentors new learners.
Stories like Thabo’s show that SETA learnerships are more than training—they’re a launchpad for long-term success.
Skills Development Training: Final Thoughts
SETA accredited learnerships are one of South Africa’s most powerful tools for fighting unemployment and building a skilled workforce. They provide real value for learners and employers alike, combining hands-on experience with recognised qualifications.
If you’re a young job seeker, a business owner, or a training provider, now is the time to get involved. Invest in skills development today—because the future belongs to those who are prepared.
Ready to transform your future?
Explore SETA-accredited learnerships and take the next step toward success.
Start your application process today, and take the first step towards a better career path!
