SETA Learnerships 2025: Everything You Need to Know
Services SETA Learnerships 2025 – Are you a South African youth looking to gain real-world experience, earn while you learn, and build a career path in your chosen industry? Services SETA Learnerships 2025 are your opportunity to do exactly that—and even better, they’re free to apply for!
In this blog post, we’ll unpack what SETA learnerships are, how they work, who qualifies, how to apply, what you’ll earn, and give you access to useful links you can use right now.
What is a SETA Learnership?
A SETA learnership is a structured training programme that combines theoretical learning with practical workplace experience. These programmes are funded and quality-assured by the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), and they’re part of South Africa’s National Skills Development Strategy.
In simple terms: A SETA learnership helps you gain real skills and qualifications while earning a stipend—perfect if you’re unemployed or looking to switch careers.
Who Can Apply for a SETA Learnerships?
You may be eligible if you:
- Are a South African citizen (ID required)
- Are between the ages of 18–35
- Have a Grade 10, 11 or 12 certificate
- Are unemployed (register with your local labour centre)
- Are not currently studying full-time
Some programmes are open to people with disabilities and others may have specific requirements depending on the field.
What You’ll Earn (Stipends)
Most SETA learnerships offer a monthly stipend ranging from R4,500 to R6,000, depending on the programme and the sector.
This means you could earn between R54,000 to R72,000 per year while getting hands-on experience and a recognised NQF qualification.
How to Apply for SETA Learnerships
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Identify the Right SETA for You
There are 21 SETAs in South Africa. Each one focuses on a different sector. Here are a few examples:
- MICT SETA – IT, Media, Telecommunications
Website: www.mict.org.za - Services SETA – Retail, Hospitality, Personal Care
Website: www.servicesseta.org.za - MERSETA – Manufacturing, Engineering, Motor Industry
Website: www.merseta.org.za
✅ Pro Tip: Register on your SETA’s learner portal to get notified about new learnerships.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
You’ll need:
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified Matric/Grade 10/11/12 results
- Updated CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Proof of residence
- If unemployed, proof of registration at the Department of Labour
Step 3: Apply Online or via Email
Each SETA or employer might have their own application process. Some require online applications, while others ask you to email your documents.
Example listings you can apply for today:
- E-learning Learnership (Stipend: R6,000) – Apply Here
- City of Ekurhuleni Learnerships – Apply on e-recruitment portal
- Tourism Learnership 2025 (18–35 years)
What Happens During a Learnerships?
Once accepted, you’ll sign a Learnership Agreement with the training provider and employer. The programme will include:
- Theory training at an accredited institution
- Practical work experience in a company
- Assessments to test your competence
- A final qualification registered with SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority)
What Employers Gain
If you’re an employer, SETA Learnerships offer major incentives:
- Up to R40,000–R60,000 in SARS tax rebates per learner
- Extra bonuses for learners with disabilities
- Increased B-BBEE scorecard points
- Access to trained, job-ready youth
For full details, check the SARS Learnership Tax Incentive Guide here.
Learnerships by Sector (2025 Hot Picks)
Here’s where we’re seeing the most activity for 2025:
| Sector | SETA | Learnership Examples |
|---|---|---|
| ICT & Digital | MICT SETA | Cloud Computing, Digital Marketing |
| Retail & Hospitality | Services SETA | Sales Assistant, Barista Training |
| Engineering | MERSETA | Automotive Mechanic, Artisan Training |
| Public Service | PSETA | Office Administration, HR Learnerships |
| Tourism | CATHSSETA | Tour Guide, Event Coordinator |
Important Resources & Links
Here are must-visit websites if you’re serious about applying:
- National Learnership Database – gov.za
- Register as a Job Seeker – Department of Labour
- SAYouth.mobi – National Youth Opportunities
- Skills Portal – Learnership Listings
Tips to Stand Out
- Register with multiple SETAs
- Update your CV regularly
- Join Facebook groups like “SETA Learners 2025”
- Follow SETA pages on LinkedIn
- Apply early! Most learnerships close within 2–3 weeks
Final Thoughts
SETA Learnerships 2025 are more than just free training—they’re a gateway to professional growth, nationally recognised qualifications, and financial support. Whether you’re fresh out of school or looking for a new direction, there’s a learnership for you.
Choose your career path by selecting the relevant SETA below:
| SETA Name | Sector Covered | Website |
|---|---|---|
| AGRISETA | Agriculture | www.agriseta.co.za |
| BANKSETA | Banking & Microfinance | www.bankseta.org.za |
| CATHSSETA | Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality & Sports | www.cathsseta.org.za |
| CHIETA | Chemical Industries | www.chieta.org.za |
| ETDPSETA | Education, Training & Development Practices | www.etdpseta.org.za |
| EWSETA | Energy & Water | www.ewseta.org.za |
| FASSET | Finance, Accounting, Management Consulting & Other Financial Services | www.fasset.org.za |
| FPMSETA | Fibre Processing & Manufacturing | www.fpmseta.org.za |
| HWSETA | Health & Welfare | www.hwseta.org.za |
| INSETA | Insurance | www.inseta.org.za |
| LGSETA | Local Government | www.lgseta.org.za |
| MERSETA | Manufacturing, Engineering & Related Services | www.merseta.org.za |
| MICTSETA | Media, Information & Communication Technology | www.mict.org.za |
| PSETA | Public Service | www.pseta.org.za |
| SASSETA | Safety & Security | www.sasseta.org.za |
| SERVICES SETA | Personal Services, Real Estate, Business Services | www.serviceseta.org.za |
| TETA | Transport Education & Training Authority | www.teta.org.za |
| W&RSETA | Wholesale & Retail | www.wrseta.org.za |