Looking for a way to gain practical work experience while earning an income? Government-Approved Learnerships 2025 are now open across South Africa, offering free training, nationally accredited qualifications, and monthly stipends.
Whether you’ve just finished matric or you’re an unemployed graduate, these 2025 learnerships are designed to boost your skills and make you job-ready — at no cost to you.
What Are Government-Approved Learnerships?
Government-approved learnerships are structured learning programmes that combine theory (classroom training) and practical experience (on-the-job training). They are registered with the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and meet national qualifications standards (NQF levels).
Successful learners receive a fully accredited qualification and valuable work experience — making them more employable.
What Do You Get?
By enrolling in a government-approved learnership in 2025, you’ll receive:
- Free accredited training (no tuition fees)
- Monthly stipend (R2,000 – R4,500, depending on the programme)
- Practical work experience
- Nationally recognised certificate
- Improved job prospects
2025 Government-Approved Learnerships Now Open
Below are some of the top SETA-accredited learnerships currently open for 2025, with links to apply directly:
1. BankSETA Kuyasa Learnership 2025
Sector: Banking & Finance
Qualification: NQF Level 5 in Banking Services
Stipend: R4,500/month
Duration: 12 months
Requirements: Matric with Maths & English, under 35, unemployed
Apply: https://www.bankseta.org.za
2. ETDPSETA Learnerships – Education & Training
Sector: Education, Training & Development
Programmes: Assessor, Moderator, Facilitator Training
Stipend: R3,000/month
Duration: 12 months
Apply Here: https://www.etdpseta.org.za
3. Merseta Learnerships – Engineering & Manufacturing
Sector: Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive, Welding
Qualification: Various NQF 2–5
Stipend: R3,500/month
Duration: 12–24 months
Apply: https://www.merseta.org.za
4. W&RSETA Learnerships 2025 – Retail & Wholesale
Sector: Wholesale and Retail
Qualification: Business Practice, Retail Operations
Stipend: R2,500–R3,000/month
Apply: https://www.wrseta.org.za
5. LGSETA Municipal Learnerships – Local Government
Sector: Local Government
Programmes: Municipal Finance, Admin, Governance
Stipend: R2,800/month
Apply: https://www.lgseta.org.za
6. HWSETA Learnerships – Health & Social Services
Sector: Health, Social Development
Programmes: Social Auxiliary Work, Community Health Work
Stipend: R3,000–R4,200/month
Apply: https://www.hwseta.org.za
7. TETA Learnerships – Transport Sector
Sector: Transport & Logistics
Programmes: Freight Handling, Transport Supervision
Stipend: R3,200/month
Apply: https://www.teta.org.za
8. Services SETA Learnerships – Hospitality & Call Centre
Sector: Services, Call Centres, Hospitality
Qualification: Customer Services, Office Admin
Stipend: R2,500–R3,000/month
Apply: https://www.serviceseta.org.za
9. CETA Learnerships – Construction & Built Environment
Sector: Construction & Infrastructure
Programmes: Plumbing, Carpentry, Bricklaying, Civil Engineering
Stipend: R2,800/month
Apply: https://www.ceta.org.za
General Requirements to Apply
Most 2025 learnerships require the following:
- South African ID (18–35 years)
- Matric certificate (some programmes accept Grade 10 or 11)
- Currently unemployed
- Not studying full-time
- Willing to commit for 12 months or more
How to Apply for Government Learnerships in 2025
Follow these steps to apply:
- Choose a Learnership: Use the list above to identify programmes in your field.
- Visit the Official Website: Click the provided links.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the age, education, and document requirements.
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Certified ID copy
- Certified highest qualification
- CV with contact details
- Motivation letter (optional but recommended)
- Apply Online or via Email/Post: Follow the instructions on the SETA website or recruitment partner’s platform.
Why Apply for Government Learnerships?
- They are FREE. There are no tuition or registration fees.
- You get paid. Receive a monthly stipend while gaining experience.
- They are credible. Registered and regulated by SETAs and government.
- You gain real skills. Combines training with job exposure.
- They open doors. Many learners get permanent jobs after completion.
Testimonials from Past Learners
“I started with a Services SETA learnership in 2023, and today I’m permanently employed in a call centre. I didn’t even have money to study before — this changed my life.”
— Lerato M., Gauteng
“Thanks to MERSETA, I now have a National Certificate in Welding and a job offer at a manufacturing plant!”
— Sibusiso N., KwaZulu-Natal
Final Tip: Apply Early!
Learnership opportunities fill up fast, especially those with stipends. Make sure you submit all documents correctly and apply before deadlines.
Bookmark and revisit the SETA websites regularly, as new opportunities are posted throughout the year.
Quick Access Links
| SETA Name | Website |
|---|---|
| BANKSETA | www.bankseta.org.za |
| ETDPSETA | www.etdpseta.org.za |
| MERSETA | www.merseta.org.za |
| W&RSETA | www.wrseta.org.za |
| LGSETA | www.lgseta.org.za |
| HWSETA | www.hwseta.org.za |
| TETA | www.teta.org.za |
| Services SETA | www.serviceseta.org.za |
| CETA | www.ceta.org.za |
