What is EWSETA?
EWSETA Learnerships and Skills Programmes-The Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA) is one of South Africa’s 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). Its mission is to facilitate and promote skills development in two of the country’s most critical sectors: energy and water. These sectors are essential to sustainable development, economic growth, and social equity in South Africa.
Established under the Skills Development Act, EWSETA plays a central role in identifying skill shortages, creating learning pathways, and improving employment prospects for South Africans. The organisation works with government departments, training providers, and employers to bridge the skills gap in energy and water services.
Why EWSETA Learnerships and Skills Programmes Matters
South Africa faces significant challenges in both the energy and water sectors. From rolling blackouts to water shortages, the need for a skilled, innovative workforce has never been more urgent. EWSETA addresses this need by investing in education and vocational training that aligns with national priorities.
Some of EWSETA’s strategic objectives include:
- Supporting the Just Energy Transition and adoption of renewable energy.
- Promoting green skills for sustainability and climate resilience.
- Enhancing water infrastructure maintenance and management capabilities.
- Developing and funding learnerships, bursaries, and internship programmes.
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EWSETA Learnerships and Skills Programmes
One of EWSETA’s most impactful offerings is its learnership programmes. These structured learning pathways combine theoretical instruction with practical workplace experience. Learnerships are aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and offer learners a recognised qualification upon completion.
Popular learnership fields include:
- Renewable energy technologies
- Electrical engineering
- Water and wastewater treatment
- Solar and wind power installation
- Energy auditing
These programmes are typically aimed at youth, unemployed individuals, and those seeking to upskill. By completing a learnership, participants not only gain valuable technical skills but also increase their chances of formal employment or entrepreneurship in the green economy.
Bursaries and Graduate Opportunities
EWSETA also funds bursaries for students pursuing qualifications in energy and water-related fields. These bursaries cover tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and even a living allowance for qualifying applicants.
Eligible qualifications often include:
- Electrical and Mechanical Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Hydrology and Water Resource Management
- Energy Studies and Power Systems
In addition to bursaries, EWSETA supports graduate internship programmes. These placements offer recent graduates workplace exposure, mentorship, and an opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings.
Support for Employers and Training Providers
EWSETA is not only focused on learners. It also supports employers and training institutions by:
- Accrediting training providers
- Offering discretionary grant funding
- Assisting in the development of Workplace Skills Plans (WSPs)
- Conducting sector skills planning to ensure training aligns with industry demands
This ecosystem approach ensures that skills development remains relevant and responsive to the changing needs of the energy and water sectors.
Aligning with National Development Goals
EWSETA contributes directly to several of South Africa’s broader development goals:
- National Development Plan (NDP) 2030
- Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP)
- Green Economy Strategy
By driving transformation and equity in education and employment, EWSETA also helps meet Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) and youth development targets.
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How to Apply for EWSETA Learnerships and Skills Programmes
Interested in joining an EWSETA-funded programme? Here’s how:
- Visit the EWSETA website – www.ewseta.org.za
- Look for open applications for learnerships, internships, or bursaries.
- Follow the application instructions carefully, including submitting certified documents and qualifications.
- Prepare for interviews or assessments where applicable.
Most opportunities are advertised annually, and deadlines must be strictly adhered to. Always check with accredited training providers or employers offering EWSETA-backed programmes.
EWSETA Learnerships and Skills Programmes: Final Thoughts
The Energy and Water SETA is more than a training authority—it’s a vital driver of economic development, innovation, and sustainability in South Africa. Through strategic investment in people, EWSETA is equipping the nation with the skills needed to tackle today’s challenges and embrace tomorrow’s opportunities.
Whether you’re a young South African looking for a career path, an employer in the green economy, or a training provider seeking accreditation, EWSETA offers the tools, support, and funding to help you succeed.