Are you passionate about hands-on work, solving real-world problems, and building a meaningful career in trades like electrical work, plumbing, welding, or mechanics? If so, the Artisan Training Learnership Programme 2025/2026 is your opportunity to step into a high-demand field and gain skills that South Africa urgently needs. From government municipalities to SETAs and private companies, there are learnerships available across the country — each one designed to help you unlock your full potential.
In this guide, we explore everything you need to know about artisan learnerships in South Africa, including available programmes, eligibility, application processes, and benefits.
What is an Artisan Learnership?
An artisan learnership is a structured training programme that combines theoretical learning (classroom or online) with practical, on-the-job experience. These programmes aim to produce skilled artisans in trades such as:
- Plumbing
- Boiler-making
- Welding
- Fitting & Turning
- Electrical Engineering
- Millwright
- Carpentry
- Automotive Mechanics
- Rigging
Upon successful completion, learners often receive an accredited trade qualification (e.g. NQF Level 4 or a national trade certificate) and are eligible to sit for a trade test, which is essential for becoming a qualified artisan.
Why Choose an Artisan Career?
In a country facing high youth unemployment, artisan skills are increasingly in demand. Whether you’re interested in infrastructure, mining, or construction, skilled tradespeople are the backbone of South Africa’s economic development. Here’s why artisan careers are worth exploring:
- High Employment Demand: Artisans are needed in energy, construction, water infrastructure, transport, and mining.
- Earn While You Learn: Most learnerships come with a monthly stipend (between R3 000 and R7 000).
- Portable Skills: Artisan certifications are recognised nationally — and in some cases, internationally.
- Career Growth: Skilled artisans can advance to become supervisors, inspectors, or start their own businesses.
Top Artisan Learnerships for 2025/2026
1. CETA Artisan Development Learnership Programme 2025
Offered by: Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA)
Duration: 12 months
Trades Offered: Bricklaying, Plumbing, Electrical, Carpentry, Welding, and more
Location: Nationwide
Eligibility Requirements:
- South African citizen, aged 18–35
- Matric certificate with Maths and Science
- N2 or N3 certificate in the relevant trade
- Currently unemployed
- Physically fit
Benefits:
- Monthly stipend (approx. R3 000 – R5 000)
- Accredited training
- Practical work experience
- Eligibility for a national trade test
Application Deadline: 31 July 2025
How to Apply:
Visit sa-seta.com or check the CETA website to download the application form. Submit certified copies of your documents including your ID, CV, Matric certificate, N2/N3 results, and proof of residence.
2. City of Tshwane Artisan Learnership Programme 2025/2026
Offered by: City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Duration: 12–18 months (depending on the trade)
Trades Offered: Electrical Engineering, Plumbing, Fitting & Turning, Boilermaking, Vehicle Mechanics, Welding
Eligibility Requirements:
- N2 certificate with relevant trade theory (or Technical Matric)
- South African citizen
- Unemployed
- Reside within Tshwane/Pretoria area
How to Apply:
Applications must be hand-delivered to the Tshwane HR Department in Pretoria. No email or faxed applications will be accepted.
Deadline: 5 July 2025 at 12:00 PM
3. De Beers Artisan Learnership Programme 2025/2026 (Venetia Mine)
Location: Venetia Mine, Limpopo Province
Duration: 4-year programme
Trades Offered: Electrician, Millwright, C&I Mechanician, Fitter, Boiler-making, Rigging
Entry Requirements:
- Grade 12 with Maths and Physical Science
- N2 trade theory certificates
- Code EB driver’s licence
- Clear criminal record
- Medically fit and pass psychometric assessments
- Reside in Musina or Blouberg Municipality (labour-sending area)
Note: Applications for the 2025 cycle closed earlier this year, but the programme is expected to reopen in early 2026.
4. Tharisa Minerals Engineering Learnership Programme 2025
Location: Marikana, North West Province
Duration: 36 months
Trades: Fitting, Electrician, Auto-Electrician
Requirements:
- South African citizen
- N2 or Technical Matric
- Priority given to locals from Marikana area
Additional Info:
- No accommodation is provided
- Candidates must be willing to undergo medical and criminal checks
Application Deadline: 24 April 2025 (programme may reopen in 2026)
General Requirements Across Learnerships
While requirements vary by programme, here are the most common prerequisites:
- Valid South African ID
- Aged 18–35 years
- Matric certificate with Maths and Science (some require Technical Matric or NCV Level 4)
- N2 or N3 certificate in relevant trade
- Physically and medically fit for the training environment
- Commitment to complete the full duration of the programme
What You’ll Gain
By joining an Artisan Learnership Programme in 2025/2026, you can expect:
✅ Practical, hands-on training in your trade
✅ Mentorship from experienced technicians and supervisors
✅ Nationally recognised qualification
✅ Improved employment prospects
✅ A monthly stipend to support you while you train
How to Apply for Artisan Learnerships
- Choose Your Trade: Decide whether you’re more drawn to mechanical, electrical, or construction-related work.
- Check the Requirements: Match your existing qualifications to the learnership’s minimum criteria.
- Gather Your Documents:
- Certified ID Copy
- Certified copies of your Matric certificate and N2/N3 qualifications
- Proof of residence
- Updated CV
- Write a Motivational Letter: Explain why you want to join the programme, your passion for the trade, and your long-term goals.
- Submit Before the Deadline: Late applications are not considered. Always follow submission instructions carefully.
Tips for Success
- Apply to multiple programmes to increase your chances.
- Visit local municipal websites and SETA pages regularly — new learnerships open year-round.
- Don’t pay anyone to “secure” a learnership. Government and SETA learnerships are free.
- Prepare for trade assessments and psychometric tests.
Where to Find Current Learnership Listings
Check these websites for up-to-date artisan learnership opportunities in South Africa:
The Artisan Training Learnership Programme 2025/2026 is more than just a stepping stone — it’s a launchpad for a sustainable, practical, and fulfilling career. Whether you want to build homes, fix engines, weld metal structures, or wire electrical systems, becoming an artisan gives you the skills to make a real impact.
Don’t wait. If you meet the requirements and have the passion, take that first step toward becoming a qualified artisan. Your future is in your hands — and it starts with the right training.