Learnerships with Stipend in South Africa-Are you looking for a career path that provides both practical experience and a monthly income? Learnerships with a stipend are an excellent opportunity for unemployed youth and school leavers in South Africa to gain valuable skills and work experience—while earning a monthly allowance. In 2025, various SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities) and companies across different industries are offering these learnerships with stipends to help bridge the skills gap in the economy.

In this comprehensive guide, we explain what a learnership with a stipend is, how to qualify, and where to apply in 2025.

Table of Contents

What is a Learnership?

A learnership is a structured learning programme that combines theoretical training with practical workplace experience. It is usually aligned to a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level and helps learners gain a registered qualification in their chosen field.

Learnerships are part of the South African government’s drive to reduce unemployment and improve the skills of the workforce. These programmes are often funded by SETA bodies and are targeted mainly at unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 35.

What is a Learnership Stipend?

A stipend is a monthly allowance that learners receive during the course of the programme. It is not considered a salary but a financial support payment to help cover basic living expenses such as transport and meals.

The amount of the stipend can vary depending on the organisation and industry, but it typically ranges between R3,000 and R5,000 per month. In some cases, learners may also receive additional benefits like transport allowances, uniforms, or meals.

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Benefits of Learnerships with a Stipend

Participating in a learnership that offers a stipend provides numerous advantages:

✅ Monthly Income: You earn while you learn, which can ease financial pressure.
✅ Recognised Qualification: You receive an accredited qualification registered on the NQF.
✅ Work Experience: You gain hands-on experience in a real working environment.
✅ Employment Opportunities: Many employers offer permanent positions to successful learners.
✅ Skill Development: Learnerships focus on both technical and soft skills, increasing your employability.

Who Qualifies for Learnerships with a Stipend?

To qualify for a learnership with a stipend in 2025, you must meet the following general criteria:

Be a South African citizen
Be between 18 and 35 years old
Have completed Grade 12 (Matric) or a relevant NQF Level 4 qualification
Be unemployed at the time of application
Not currently enrolled in another learnership or full-time studies
Meet any specific entry requirements related to the field (e.g., mathematics for engineering learnerships)

Popular Learnerships That Offer Stipends in 2025

Several industries offer funded learnership programmes with stipends. Here are some of the most in-demand fields:

1. Retail and Wholesale Learnerships (W&RSETA)

Fields: Cashier, Retail Sales, Customer Service, Merchandising
Monthly Stipend: R3,500 – R4,500
Duration: 12 months

2. Business Administration Learnerships (Services SETA)

Fields: Office Administration, Reception, Data Capturing
Monthly Stipend: R3,000 – R5,000
Duration: 12–18 months

3. IT and Digital Learnerships (MICT SETA)

Fields: IT Support, Coding, Cybersecurity, Systems Development
Monthly Stipend: R4,000 – R6,000
Duration: 12–18 months

4. Banking and Finance Learnerships (BANKSETA)

Fields: Banking, Finance, Insurance, Credit Management
Monthly Stipend: R4,500 – R6,500
Duration: 12 months

5. Construction and Engineering Learnerships (CETA & MERSETA)

Fields: Plumbing, Electrical, Welding, Mechanical Engineering
Monthly Stipend: R3,000 – R6,000
Duration: 12–36 months

6. Public Sector Learnerships (LGSETA & PSETA)

Fields: Local Government, Public Administration, HR
Monthly Stipend: R3,000 – R4,500
Duration: 12–24 months

How to Apply for Learnerships with Stipend in 2025

Here’s a step-by-step guide to apply for a learnership in 2025:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

You’ll usually need the following:

Certified copy of your ID
Certified copy of your Matric certificate or highest qualification
Updated CV (Curriculum Vitae)
Proof of residence
Motivation letter (if requested)

Step 2: Search for Available Learnerships

You can find available learnerships through:

Official SETA websites (e.g. www.wrseta.org.za, www.lgseta.org.za)
Company websites (e.g. Transnet, Nedbank, Shoprite)
Government platforms (e.g. www.skillsportal.co.za, www.gov.za)
Job portals like Indeed, PNet, or CareerJunction

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Follow the application instructions carefully. Some learnerships require you to apply online, while others may require email or hand delivery.

Tips for Getting Accepted

✅ Tailor your CV to the specific field you’re applying for.
✅ Highlight any volunteer work or internships you’ve done.
✅ Check deadlines and submit early to avoid last-minute issues.
✅ Follow up politely if you haven’t received a response after a few weeks.
✅ Be professional in communication and use a clear, formal email address.

Learnership Success Stories

Many South Africans have changed their lives through learnerships with a stipend. For example, Nomsa Mokoena, a former retail learnership participant, now works as a store manager at a major retail chain. She says:

“The stipend helped me support my family while gaining experience. I now have a stable job thanks to that opportunity.”

Stories like Nomsa’s show that learnerships are more than just training programmes—they’re stepping stones to a better future.

Final Thoughts: Are Learnerships Worth It?

Yes! Learnerships with a stipend in South Africa offer a pathway out of unemployment, especially for young people eager to gain experience and build qualifications. They are an excellent starting point for anyone looking to break into a new industry or profession without needing a university degree.

If you’re serious about securing your future, start applying for stipend-based learnerships today and take that first step toward a successful career.

Start your application process today, and take the first step towards a better career path!

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