In South Africa, the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA) play a vital role in workforce development by providing learnerships. These learnerships are essential in helping individuals gain practical skills and work experience while earning a stipend.
This article will guide you through what SETA learnerships are, the various types of learnerships available, how much SETA pays for these learnerships, and the steps to apply for them.
What is a SETA Learnership?
A SETA learnership is a structured learning program that combines theoretical education with practical work experience. The purpose of these learnerships is to address skills shortages in various industries and to help young people and unemployed adults gain the skills they need to find employment. Each learnership is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and results in a nationally recognized qualification.
Benefits of SETA Learnerships
- Practical Experience: Participants gain hands-on experience in their chosen field.
- Nationally Recognized Qualifications: Completion of a learnership results in a qualification that is recognized across South Africa.
- Employment Opportunities: Many learners find employment with their host companies after completing their learnerships.
- Financial Stipend: Learners receive a stipend to cover basic expenses during the learnership.
How Much Does SETA Pay for Learnerships?
The amount paid to learners during a SETA learnership varies depending on the specific program and the industry. However, all learners receive a stipend to help cover living expenses. The stipend is not a salary but an allowance meant to support learners while they gain work experience.
Stipend Range
Typically, stipends range from R1,500 to R4,000 per month. The exact amount can depend on factors such as the level of the qualification, the industry, and the specific SETA managing the learnership. It is essential to check with the specific SETA or the company offering the learnership for accurate stipend details.
Types of SETA Learnerships Available
There are numerous learnerships available across various sectors in South Africa. Each SETA is responsible for a specific sector, and they offer learnerships relevant to their industry. Here are some examples of learnerships provided by different SETAs:
1. BankSETA (Banking Sector Education and Training Authority)
- Financial Services
- Banking and Microfinance
2. CATHSSETA (Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority)
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Sports Management
Related: CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2024/25
3. ETDPSETA (Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority)
- Early Childhood Development
- School Administration
4. FASSET (Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority)
- Accounting
- Bookkeeping
5. HWSETA (Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority)
- Community Health Work
- Social Auxiliary Work
6. MERSETA (Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority)
- Automotive Repair and Maintenance
- Fabrication
7. MICTSETA (Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority)
- Information Technology
- Media Studies
8. TETA (Transport Education and Training Authority)
- Freight Handling
- Professional Driving
9. W&RSETA (Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority)
- Retail Operations
- Sales
Related: SASSETA HR Administrator Vacancy (Salary R352 306)
Steps to Apply for a SETA Learnership
Applying for a SETA learnership involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:
1. Identify Your Career Interests
- Determine which sector you are interested in and find the relevant SETA that offers learnerships in that field.
2. Research Available Learnerships
- Visit the websites of different SETAs to explore the learnerships they offer. Each SETA provides detailed information about the available learnerships, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
3. Meet the Eligibility Criteria
- Ensure you meet the basic requirements for the learnership. These generally include:
- Being a South African citizen
- Being between the ages of 18 and 35
- Having a Grade 12 certificate or equivalent qualification
- Being unemployed
4. Prepare Your Application Documents
- Typically, you will need the following documents:
- A copy of your ID
- A copy of your Grade 12 certificate or highest qualification
- An updated CV
- Any other documents specified in the learnership advertisement
5. Submit Your Application
- Applications can be submitted online through the SETA’s website or via email, depending on the specific instructions provided.
6. Attend Interviews and Assessments
- If shortlisted, you may be required to attend an interview or complete assessments to determine your suitability for the learnership.
7. Acceptance and Enrollment
- If you are selected, you will receive an offer letter and will need to sign a learnership agreement. This agreement outlines the responsibilities of both the learner and the employer.
8. Start Your Learnership
- Begin your learnership, which will include both theoretical training and practical work experience.
SETA learnerships are an excellent opportunity for South African youth and unemployed adults to gain valuable skills and work experience while earning a stipend. By understanding what SETA learnerships are, the types of learnerships available, and how to apply for them, you can take the first step towards building a successful career.
Always keep an eye on the SETA websites for new learnership opportunities and apply as soon as possible to increase your chances of acceptance.