Learnerships are a fantastic opportunity for South Africans to gain workplace experience while studying towards a qualification. However, as the popularity of learnerships has grown, so have scams targeting unsuspecting individuals. Scammers often promise fake learnership opportunities to exploit people financially or steal their personal information. To avoid falling victim, it’s crucial to know how to differentiate between a legitimate learnership and a scam.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the key steps to verify the authenticity of a learnership and protect yourself from fraudulent schemes.
What Is a Learnership?
A learnership is a structured learning program in South Africa that combines theoretical studies with practical workplace experience. Learnerships are registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and are intended to equip participants with skills and qualifications that improve their employability.
Typically, they are funded by employers or Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). They are often free for learners and may include a monthly stipend. Because of their appeal, scams often mimic the structure of legitimate learnerships.
Signs of a Legitimate Learnership
To ensure a it is legitimate, it should meet the following criteria:
- Registered with a SETA
All legitimate are overseen by one of South Africa’s SETAs. These bodies are responsible for regulating and approving workplace training programs. You can contact the relevant SETA to confirm if the learnership is registered. - No Upfront Payment Required
A genuine one does not require learners to pay for registration, application fees, or upfront costs. If you’re asked for money, it’s likely a scam. - Clear and Verifiable Contact Information
Legitimate organizations offering will provide clear contact details, including a business address, telephone numbers, and an official website. Be cautious of organizations using free email accounts (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo) or refusing to provide physical addresses. - Stipend Information
Real ones often offer a stipend to learners. While not all may provide a significant amount, any mention of overly lucrative stipends that seem too good to be true should raise suspicion. - Registered Training Provider
The training institution associated with the learnership should be accredited by SAQA. You can verify their credentials on SAQA’s official website or by contacting them directly.
How to Spot a Scam Learnership
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it challenging to identify fraudulent opportunities. Here are red flags to watch out for:
- Requests for Payment
Scammers often demand money for application processing, study materials, or other “fees.” A legitimate ones will not ask you to pay for anything upfront. - Unrealistic Promises
If the it promises excessively high stipends, guaranteed jobs, or qualifications that can be completed unrealistically quickly, it may be a scam. - Lack of Accreditation
Always check if the learnership is registered with a SETA or SAQA. Scammers often avoid providing specific information about their accreditation. - Poor Communication
Be cautious of organizations with unprofessional communication, poorly written emails, or vague job descriptions. Legitimate programs will be clear and professional in their interactions. - Pressure Tactics
Scammers may use high-pressure tactics, such as telling you to act immediately or risk losing the opportunity. Legitimate programs provide ample time to consider and apply.
Steps to Verify a Learnership
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you confirm if a it is legitimate:
1. Research the Organization
- Look up the organization offering the learnership. A legitimate organization will have a professional website, active social media profiles, and verifiable contact details.
- Search for reviews or complaints about the organization. If others have flagged it as a scam, proceed with caution.
2. Contact the Relevant SETA
- Identify which SETA is responsible for the learnership (e.g., Services SETA, MERSETA, or ETDP SETA). Contact the SETA directly to verify if the learnership is registered.
3. Verify Accreditation
- Confirm that the training provider is accredited with SAQA. You can do this by visiting SAQA’s website or calling them directly at their official contact numbers.
4. Check Job Boards
- Scammers often post fake learnership opportunities on unverified platforms. Stick to trusted job boards like Indeed, Careers24, or the official SETA websites.
5. Speak to Past Participants
- If possible, find someone who has completed the learnership. Their experience can provide valuable insight into the program’s legitimacy.
What to Do If You Encounter a Scam Learnership
If you suspect that a it is a scam, take the following steps:
- Report It
- File a report with the South African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) or the South African Police Service (SAPS). Reporting scams helps protect others from falling victim.
- Warn Others
- Share your experience on social media or forums to alert others about the scam. The more people know, the harder it becomes for scammers to operate.
- Protect Your Information
- If you’ve already shared personal information with scammers, monitor your accounts for unusual activity. Consider changing your passwords or alerting your bank.
Resources to Help You
Below are some useful resources for verifying them:
- SAQA: www.saqa.org.za
- SETAs Directory: Visit the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) website for a full list of SETAs.
- Trusted Job Boards: Use platforms like PNet, Careers24, or the SETAs’ official websites for reliable opportunities.
- Fraud Reporting: Contact the South African Fraud Prevention Service (www.safps.org.za) to report scams.
Check also: How to Apply for SETA Learnerships in South Africa
They are an excellent way to advance your career while gaining valuable skills, but it’s essential to approach opportunities with caution. By doing your research, verifying accreditation, and staying alert to red flags, you can protect yourself from scams. Always trust your instincts—if something feels off, take the time to investigate further.