BANKSETA Disability Skills
BANKSETA Disability Skills Programme 2026: Free Training for Youth with Disabilities
Role Overview
BANKSETA Disability Skills Programme applications are now open for 2026. The Banking Sector Education and Training Authority (BANKSETA) is offering free digital skills training for young South Africans living with disabilities. If you are between 18 and 35 years old, have a Matric certificate, and live in Limpopo, Free State, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga or KwaZulu-Natal, you can train as a Technopreneur or Cybersecurity Defender at no cost. Applications close on 6 August 2026, so interested candidates should apply as soon as possible.
About the BANKSETA Disability Skills Programme
BANKSETA is the Sector Education and Training Authority responsible for skills development across South Africa’s banking and microfinance sector. It funds learnerships, internships, bursaries and skills programmes that prepare young people for careers in one of the country’s most important industries. The Disability Skills Development Programme is delivered in partnership with Masithuthuke Holdings (Pty) Ltd, a training provider appointed to run the initiative.
The programme was created to address two challenges at once: the shortage of digital skills in South Africa’s financial sector, and the exclusion of people with disabilities from the labour market. Employment rates for South Africans with disabilities remain far below the national average, and structured training programmes like this one are designed to close that gap. Participants choose between two high-demand streams that reflect where the banking industry is heading: technology entrepreneurship and cybersecurity.
Technopreneur stream: how to build and run a technology-based business, from idea development to digital operations
Cybersecurity Defender stream: practical skills to protect organisations from online threats, a critical need in banking and finance
Hands-on projects that build a portfolio you can show employers
Workplace readiness and professional communication skills
Access to a network of mentors and potential employers in the tech and banking sectors
South African citizen with a valid ID
Matric certificate (Grade 12) or equivalent qualification
Proof of disability in the form of a confirmation letter, official documentation or medical report
Resident of Limpopo, Free State, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga or KwaZulu-Natal
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Recently certified copy of your South African ID (smart cards must be scanned on both sides)
Recently certified copy of your matric certificate
Recently certified copies of your highest qualifications or certificates
Latest medical report or proof of disability
Gather and certify all the documents listed above. Certification must be recent.
Decide which stream you want: Technopreneur or Cybersecurity Defender.
Complete the official online application form, including your personal details, province, type of disability and preferred skill programme.
Alternatively, email your application with all documents attached to admin@masithuthukeholdings.co.za with a clear subject line such as “Application – BANKSETA Technopreneur Programme”.
Keep copies of everything you submit and watch your email and phone for feedback.
Submit your application online here: Apply at BANKSETA (official application form)
The closing date for the BANKSETA Disability Skills Development Programme 2026 is 6 August 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
South Africa’s youth unemployment rate remains among the highest in the world, and young people living with disabilities face even steeper barriers to entering the workforce. At the same time, the country has a serious shortage of cybersecurity and digital skills, with banks and financial institutions actively recruiting for these roles.
This programme sits exactly at that intersection: it gives participants skills that employers are searching for right now, while opening a door that has too often been closed. Completing a recognised digital skills programme can lead to employment in the financial sector, freelance consulting work, or the launch of your own tech business. For many participants, it is the first step towards financial independence.
No. The programme is designed for entry-level candidates. You only need a matric certificate, proof of disability, and the required documents.
The programme is open to residents of Limpopo, Free State, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal.
Stipend details are confirmed during the application process. Contact admin@masithuthukeholdings.co.za if you need clarity before applying.
Graduates leave with industry-relevant digital skills, a project portfolio, and access to a professional network. Many use the qualification to pursue jobs in banking and tech or to start their own businesses.
Key Responsibilities
As an intern, your responsibilities will typically include assisting senior team members with daily tasks and project deliverables, conducting research and preparing reports as directed by your supervisor, and attending team meetings to contribute ideas. In this internship, you will be expected to learn and apply company processes, systems, and tools, complete assigned projects within specified deadlines, and maintain accurate records of your work and learning progress.
Entry Requirements
South African citizenship or valid work permit, and a relevant qualification or current enrolment at a recognised tertiary institution. Strong communication skills in English and basic computer literacy including proficiency in Microsoft Office are required for this role.
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from Nasi-Ispani. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Gather and certify all the documents listed above. Certification must be recent. Decide which stream you want: Technopreneur or Cybersecurity Defender. Complete the official online application form, including your personal details, province, type of disability and preferred skill programme. Alternatively, email your application with all documents attached to admin@masithuthukeholdings.co.za with a clear subject line such as “Application – BANKSETA Technopreneur Programme”. Keep copies of everything you submit and watch your email and phone for feedback. Submit your application online here: Apply at BANKSETA (official application form)
About BANKSETA Disability Skills
This internship is offered by BANKSETA Disability Skills.
Why This Is Good for Starters
Internships are one of the most effective ways to break into the South African job market. According to the National Youth Development Agency, candidates with internship experience are up to 3 times more likely to secure permanent employment. This BANKSETA Disability Skills internship gives you real workplace exposure, professional references, and a chance to prove yourself before committing to a long-term role. Many South African companies convert their top interns into permanent staff.
CV Tips for This Application
- Highlight any academic projects, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that show initiative
- Include your university or college details prominently — GPA if above 65%
- Mention any software, tools, or technical skills you learned during your studies
- Keep your CV to one page — hiring managers reviewing intern applications spend under 30 seconds per CV
- Add a short "Career Objective" at the top explaining why you want this specific internship
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Write a brief cover letter explaining why you are a good fit
- Submit before the closing date: 06 August 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Check the requirements section above for education requirements.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this internship paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 06 August 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.
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