In South Africa’s evolving economy, technical and trade skills are in high demand. To support skills development and youth employment, the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) occasionally supports or collaborates on artisanship and technical skills programmes. While AGSA is not a traditional training authority for trades like plumbing, electrical work, or welding, it plays a vital role in public-sector training initiatives that promote economic inclusion—including support for SETA-accredited skills and learnership programmes in the public sector.
If you’re a young South African interested in becoming a qualified artisan, this article will help you understand how to apply for available opportunities at AGSA or similar public entities connected to artisanship training.
What Is an Artisanship Programme?
An artisanship programme, also called a learnership, apprenticeship, or technical training programme, provides structured training in a skilled trade. It typically includes:
- Theoretical classroom learning through a TVET college or accredited provider.
- Practical workplace training with a host employer.
- A formal qualification (e.g., NQF Level 2-4, Occupational Certificate, or a Red Seal).
Trades covered in these programmes may include:
- Electrical work
- Boiler making
- Carpentry
- Plumbing
- Fitting and turning
- Welding
- Mechanical repairs
- Civil construction
These programmes usually last between 12 to 36 months, depending on the qualification.
AGSA and Skills Development
While AGSA primarily focuses on public-sector auditing and accountability, it also participates in and supports broader government objectives such as:
- Youth employment and training
- Skills development
- SETA-aligned initiatives
- Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) initiatives
This means that while AGSA may not host artisans directly, it often partners with or helps fund public-service skills pipelines, particularly when there’s a need for artisans in state institutions (e.g., Department of Public Works, Infrastructure, or Municipal Services).
AGSA may also indirectly support artisanship through its:
- Graduate and skills pipeline programmes
- Corporate social responsibility initiatives
- Support for infrastructure audits and related services requiring artisanship knowledge
Who Should Apply?
You may be eligible for an AGSA-supported artisanship programme if:
- You’re a South African citizen between the ages of 18 and 35.
- You’ve completed Grade 10–12, ideally with Maths and Science.
- You’re unemployed and not studying full-time.
- You’re interested in a technical trade or craft (e.g., electrician, fitter, welder).
- You want to gain workplace exposure in public infrastructure or utilities.
- You’re willing to commit to 12–36 months of training.
How to Find and Apply for AGSA Artisanship Programmes
AGSA does not regularly advertise artisan learnerships directly on its website. However, there are three ways you can access these opportunities:
1. AGSA Vacancies and Graduate Portal
Visit the official careers page:
These platforms list available internships, vacation work, and graduate programmes. Occasionally, artisan-linked technical roles may appear under facilities, operations, or infrastructure support.
Tip: Register and upload your CV even when no artisanship posts are listed. You’ll be notified when suitable positions open.
2. Search for Public-Sector Learnerships via SETAs
AGSA may partner with the following SETA-accredited bodies to implement artisan learnerships:
- EWSETA (Energy and Water SETA)
- CETA (Construction SETA)
- MERSETA (Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA)
- LGSETA (Local Government SETA)
Check the National Artisan Development Support Centre (NADSC) or www.nsfas.org.za for funded programmes in these areas.
Example: MERSETA-funded learnerships for fitters, electricians, and welders often include public-entity placements.
3. Monitor DPSA Circulars and Government Bulletins
Many government departments advertise artisanship learnerships, which AGSA may support indirectly. Look out for:
- DPSA Circulars: Weekly job circulars listing government training programmes.
- Department of Public Works: Offers artisan development programmes.
- National School of Government (NSG): Lists public-sector training initiatives.
What Documents Do You Need?
When applying for an artisanship or learnership, prepare the following documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of your highest school qualification (Grade 10, 11, or 12)
- Updated CV with contact details
- Certified proof of residence
- Motivation letter (optional but recommended)
- Medical proof of fitness (for technical trades)
Make sure your documents are recent (certified within 3 months) and under 2MB in size if submitting online.
What Does the Programme Include?
AGSA-supported or affiliated artisanship programmes may offer:
- Monthly stipend (typically R2,500 – R4,000 depending on the SETA)
- Tools of the trade (basic PPE or equipment)
- Placement with a host employer or government department
- Classroom instruction at an accredited TVET college
- Progress tracking and assessments
On successful completion, learners receive an NQF qualification or Red Seal certification, allowing them to work as qualified artisans.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Once you’ve completed the programme, you can:
- Work as an entry-level artisan in the public or private sector.
- Register for the Red Seal trade test if applicable.
- Apply for contract roles in public infrastructure maintenance or operations.
- Join municipalities, state-owned entities, or construction firms.
- Start your own technical business in your chosen trade.
Tips for Success
- Apply early – positions are competitive and often limited.
- Follow instructions carefully – incomplete or incorrectly submitted applications will be rejected.
- Keep all documents certified and updated.
- Stay connected to AGSA and SETA updates via email and online portals.
- If placed, show up every day, be punctual, and maintain a learning attitude.
Final Thoughts
While AGSA may not directly host artisan training every year, it often plays a supportive role in South Africa’s skills development landscape. Whether through its internal facilities, partnerships with SETAs, or public-sector alignment, AGSA helps build pathways for youth interested in technical trades and public-sector infrastructure careers.
If you’re passionate about learning a trade and contributing to South Africa’s economy, applying for an artisanship programme—either directly through AGSA or a related public entity—could be the stepping stone to a meaningful, skilled career.