MICT SETA – ICT & Digital Learnerships: Bridging Skills Gaps & Empowering South African Youth
MICT SETA – ICT & Digital Learnerships-In today’s fast‑evolving digital landscape, employers in South Africa’s ICT sector are facing a growing demand for skilled and adaptable talent. Enter MICT SETA—the Media, Information & Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority. As one of 21 SETAs in the country, MICT SETA plays a strategic role in developing and funding ICT, digital, telecommunications, media, and broadcasting skills aligned with the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
What Are Learnerships?
Learnerships are structured, workplace‑integrated programmes linked to qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) . Through a mix of theoretical instruction and practical, on‑the‑job learning, these programmes offer a holistic educational experience—typically with 70% practical training and 30% classroom learning over a 12‑month period, culminating in an NQF‑registered qualification (minimum 120 credits) .
Why Choose MICT SETA – ICT & Digital Learnerships?
1. For Learners:
- Access to employer‑paid stipends throughout the programme .
- Nationally recognised qualification coupled with real workplace experience.
- Broadens future career options or pathways for further training.
- Ideal entry point into high‑growth, digital industries.
2. Employers:
- Opportunity to shape future-ready talent aligned with specific skills gaps.
- Boosts productivity, staff competence, and workforce diversity (BB-BEE credentials).
- Cultivates skilled staff who require less supervision post-completion.
- Supports compliance with skills development targets and empowerment goals.
3. For the ICT Sector:
- Strengthens South Africa’s global competitiveness with a pipeline of skilled professionals.
- Elevates industry standards to world-class competence levels.
Related: Services SETA – Human Resources & Admin Learnerships
Fields Covered by MICT SETA – ICT & Digital Learnerships
MICT SETA offers learnerships across a wide spectrum of ICT-digital disciplines, typically ranging from NQF Levels 3–5 (sometimes higher). Representative programmes include:
- Systems Development – foundational to advanced IT systems design and implementation . Curriculum includes problem-solving, programming basics, communication, and teamwork.
- IT Technical Support – equips learners with hardware, software, and network support skills .
- Cybersecurity, Telecommunications Engineering, Digital Marketing, Broadcasting, and Media Studies .
Training providers accredited by MICT SETA include renowned names like Boston City Campus, Torque IT, CTU Training Solutions, Richfield, iCollege, and more . They ensure learners receive quality education aligned with both academic standards and industry needs.
Who Can Apply?
MICT SETA learnerships are open to both unemployed and employed South Africans:
- Unemployed candidates between ages 18–35 with at least a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate and basic computer literacy . No prior work experience needed.
- Employed learners can also join to upskill, with their current contract maintained—covered by the employer’s training plan .
Learners enter a formal agreement with the employer and training provider, recorded with MICT SETA, outlining the rights, responsibilities, and stipends . For minors, a legal guardian must cosign. Additionally, learners receive a 1% UI Fund contribution from their stipends, matched by employers .
Related: W&R SETA Funded Learnership by Pepkor Lifestyle
How to Apply
1. Explore and Identify
Regularly check:
- MICT SETA website for updates.
- Trusted recruitment platforms (SAYouth.mobi, Indeed, Careersportal).
- Training providers’ channels (website and social media) for available opportunities .
2. Prepare Essential Documents
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Matric certificate (or higher qualification)
- Proof of residence
- Cover letter (recommended)
3. Submit Your Application
Applications typically follow multiple channels:
- Online via provider/MICT website
- Email submission
- Portal uploads (e.g., Z83 form)
- Physical delivery, if specified .
4. Interviews and Assessments
Shortlisted applicants may be required to complete:
- Aptitude tests
- Group or one-on-one interviews
- Pre-training sessions
5. Program Commencement
Selected learners start a 12‑month experiential programme combining workplace output, formal training, and modules. They are evaluated at intervals to ensure competency and progress .
Upon successful completion, learners receive full qualification certification — a formal proof of their competence.
What to Expect as a Learner
- A monthly stipend between R3 000–R4 500 covering transport, meals, and living costs.
- Active engagement in real-world work, development tasks, and digital projects.
- Preparation for assessments—internally and via external summative exams.
- Very real opportunity to land a permanent role or pursue higher qualifications afterward.
Complete Package for South Africa’s Tech Future
MICT SETA learnerships offer more than just training—they’re a stepping stone into the digital economy. Learners not only earn while they learn, but also become globally competitive digital professionals. Employers benefit by investing in a custom-skilled workforce, and the ICT sector benefits from a growing pool of qualified talent.
Final Thoughts
With South Africa rapidly transforming under the Fourth Industrial Revolution, MICT SETA learnerships are timely, impactful, and accessible. They bridge the gap between academic theory and industry demands, offering practical exposure alongside accredited qualifications. If you’re a young South African aspiring to thrive in the digital arena, or an employer aiming to future‑proof your workforce, MICT SETA learnerships are an opportunity not to miss.
Take action today – explore opportunities on the MICT SETA site, prepare your documents, and apply early. Your future in tech starts now.
SA-SETA is a registered non-profit organization, NPO No: 256 – 362, and a Public Benefit Organisation (PBO): 360077984. We want to inform you that SA-SETA never asks for money or CVs from individuals in exchange for job opportunities. Please be cautious of fake job postings and recruitment scams.