Services SETA Learnership Programme 2026: Paid Training for Youth

The Services SETA Learnership Programme 2026 is one of the most accessible ways for unemployed South Africans to earn a salary while they study toward a nationally recognised qualification. Whether you have just finished Grade 10 or Grade 12 and are looking for your first break, this programme combines classroom training with real workplace experience and pays a monthly stipend.

The July 2026 intake is open and places are limited, so register on the Services SETA learner portal and submit your CV as soon as possible.

The Services Sector Education and Training Authority, better known as the Services SETA, is a government body responsible for developing skills across South Africa’s vast services industry, which includes everything from business administration and project management to cleaning, marketing and contact centres. Its primary job is to facilitate learnerships, skills programmes and internships that move unemployed people into work. A learnership is a structured learning programme that mixes theory with practical, on-the-job training, so you earn while you learn. Because the services sector is so broad, Services SETA learnerships are available across many fields and provinces, making this one of the widest entry points into the formal economy for young South Africans.

Core skills in your chosen field, such as business administration, project management, marketing or contact-centre operations

A nationally recognised NQF qualification on successful completion

Practical, hands-on experience in a real business environment

Workplace professionalism, communication and teamwork

A monthly stipend for the duration of the learnership (amount confirmed during the application process)

Mentorship from experienced professionals in your sector

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South African citizens with a valid ID

Typically aged between 18 and 34 years

A minimum of Grade 10 or Grade 12, depending on the specific learnership

Currently unemployed and not enrolled in full-time study

Available to commit to the full duration of the learnership

People living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply

Certified copy of your South African ID

Certified copy of your Grade 10 or Grade 12 results or certificate

Certified copies of any further qualifications you hold

Proof of residential address and any extra documents confirmed during the application process

Visit the official Services SETA learner application portal.

Create your profile and complete the online registration form.

Upload your CV, certified ID and qualification documents.

Register on the learner database so you can be matched to available learnerships and accredited providers in your area.

Submit your application and keep your phone and email active for placement updates.

The Services SETA Learnership Programme 2026 July intake is open now and applications close as soon as the available places are filled. There is no late submission once the intake closes, so register and submit your CV as early as possible.

For a young person with only a Grade 10 or matric certificate, finding a first job can feel impossible. The Services SETA Learnership Programme is designed exactly for this situation. It does not require a degree, it pays you while you train, and it ends with a qualification that employers across the services sector recognise. That combination of income, accredited learning and real experience is a powerful launchpad. Many learners are absorbed into permanent roles by their host employers, and those who are not leave with a qualification and a track record that make the next job far easier to land. In a country where youth unemployment sits above 60 percent, that head start is worth chasing.

No. Learnerships are designed for people with little or no experience, and the programme provides the on-the-job training you need.

Services SETA learnerships run across the country through accredited training providers, so opportunities are spread across multiple provinces depending on demand.

Yes. Learnerships pay a monthly stipend for the duration of the programme. The exact amount is confirmed during the application process and varies by learnership.

You leave with a nationally recognised NQF qualification and real work experience, which open the door to permanent jobs or further study in your field.

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As a learner, your responsibilities will include attending all scheduled theoretical training sessions and completing coursework on time, and applying learned concepts in the workplace under mentor guidance. You will maintain a portfolio of evidence documenting your practical experience and competencies, while meeting all assessment requirements set by the relevant SETA and adhering to workplace policies.

• South African citizens with a valid ID
• Typically aged between 18 and 34 years
• A minimum of Grade 10 or Grade 12, depending on the specific learnership
• Currently unemployed and not enrolled in full-time study
• Available to commit to the full duration of the learnership
• People living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply

This opportunity was sourced from Nasi-Ispani. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.

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Visit the official Services SETA learner application portal. Create your profile and complete the online registration form. Upload your CV, certified ID and qualification documents. Register on the learner database so you can be matched to available learnerships and accredited providers in your area. Submit your application and keep your phone and email active for placement updates. Apply at Services SETA

This learnership is offered by Services SETA.