Every year in South Africa, learnerships present a vital opportunity for young people to combine formal education with on-the-job training, gain recognised qualifications, and increase their employability. For 2025, many organisations, SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities), and private companies still have learnerships open or will open new intakes before the year ends. This article details the current situation as of September 2025 (and beyond where possible), examples of learnerships still open, tips for finding them, eligibility, and how you can apply. Learnerships still open for 2025 in South Africa
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Follow our Whatsapp channel for additional positions without joins: Follow Here
What Is a Learnership?
Before diving into specific programmes:
- A learnership is a structured programme that combines theoretical classroom learning with practical, workplace experience.
- On completion, learnerships lead to a nationally recognised qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
- They are often funded or supported by SETAs, or by companies in partnership with SETAs. Many include a stipend so that learners have some financial support while they train.
- Learnerships help bridge the gap between education and work, especially for those who have matric (Grade 12) but lack work experience.
Why Apply Now
- Deadlines for many learnerships in 2025 are approaching. Some close quickly once their intake quotas are filled.
- Late applications are usually rejected—even if the advertised deadline hasn’t passed.
- Applying early gives you time to prepare important documents: certified ID, matric certificate, proof of residence, sometimes additional qualifications (e.g. Maths, Science), a CV, and motivational letters.
- Also, different SETAs and sectors open new learnerships at different times; keeping track of announcements can help you catch new ones as they launch.
Examples of Learnerships Still Open for 2025
Here are several learnerships that, as of around September 2025, are still open or have upcoming closing dates. These are drawn from reputable sources. Always double-check the official websites for the most up-to-date information.
| Learnership Programme | Sector / Role | Requirements & Location | Key Details & Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sasol Fire Fighter Learnership 2025 | Firefighting / Emergency Services | Matric with passes in Maths (or Technical Maths), English, Physical or Technical Science; Code B driver’s licence; fitness test etc. Mysetalearnerships | 14 posts; Locations: Secunda, Sasolburg. ~15 September 2025 closing date. Mysetalearnerships |
| Film & TV Production Learnership (MICT SETA) | Media / Digital | Matric; interest in TV, film, or media production. Mysetalearnerships | Stipend approx R3,000; closing around 17 September 2025. Johannesburg. Mysetalearnerships |
| Banking & Finance sector (BANKSETA) | Teller, Customer Service, Compliance etc. | Matric (Maths/Accounting preferred). Mysetalearnerships+2sa-seta.com+2 | Applications often close mid-to-late Sept – Oct 2025. Mysetalearnerships |
| Information & Communications Technology (MICT SETA) | IT Technician, Junior Developer, Digital Marketing Assistant etc. | Matric with Computer Studies or IT skills. Mysetalearnerships+1 | Some IT learnerships still open late Sept into October. Mysetalearnerships |
| Health & Welfare (HWSETA) | Community health workers, care giving, etc. | Matric with Life Sciences/Biology in some cases; willingness to work in provincial or rural settings. sa-seta.com+1 | Some health sector programmes remain open until October. Mysetalearnerships+1 |
| Retail & Hospitality | Entry-level roles in stores, merchandising, hospitality services | Matric or sometimes lower; customer service skills; willingness to work shifts or weekends. Mysetalearnerships+2legitjobs.co.za+2 | Many retail/hospitality learnerships extend into November. Mysetalearnerships+1 |
| Engineering & Construction (CETA, MERSETA etc.) | Artisan Assistants, Mechanical Fitters, Pipefitting etc. | Technical Matric (Maths & Science), sometimes N-Dips or N2/N3; physically fit; depending on location. sa-seta.com+1 | Some closing dates stretch out to later in the year (Nov-Dec) in certain sectors. Mysetalearnerships+1 |
| Local/Provincial Government & Public Works | Infrastructure, environmental management, administrative roles | Varies by province; often require Matric, sometimes additional qualifications, must meet residency requirements. sa-seta.com | Opportunities currently in provinces such as Gauteng, Limpopo etc. sa-seta.com |
Where & How to Find Official Listings
To avoid missing opportunities or falling for scams, focus on reliable sources:
- SETA websites
Each sector (e.g., MICT SETA, BANKSETA, HWSETA, CETA, MERSETA, W&RSETA etc.) publishes accredited learnerships. These sites are often the primary authority. sseta.co.za+2sa-seta.com+2 - Government portals
- Department of Higher Education & Training (DHET)
- SA Youth Portal (sayouth.mobi)
- Skills Portal, career development websites supported by government or NGOs. Mysetalearnerships+2sseta.co.za+2
- Company/corporate career pages
Many large companies advertise learnerships on their own websites (e.g. Sasol, Transnet, Standard Bank etc.). Keep an eye there. legitjobs.co.za+1 - Job/learnership aggregators
Websites like CareerDrive, GoCareers, MySetaLearnerships, Matriq etc., tend to gather learnership opportunities in one place. These are useful (but always verify via the primary source). Career Drive+2GoCareers+2 - Local routes
- Local municipal offices
- Local TVET colleges and training providers
- Community centres, youth development organisations.
These sometimes have smaller-scale learnerships that are not heavily publicised but are legitimate and helpful.
What to Look for Before Applying
To improve your chances and make sure the learnership is legitimate, check for:
- Accreditation: The provider should be accredited by the relevant SETA, and the qualification should be on the NQF. sseta.co.za+1
- Stipend/incentive: Is there a stipend? How much? Is it enough to cover basic needs (transport, meals etc.)?
- Required qualifications: Matric, perhaps specific subjects (Mathematics, Science, English etc.), or certain certificates. Be sure you meet the minimums.
- Location and transport: Will you need to relocate or travel long distances? Some learnerships are located in industrial or remote areas.
- Duration and commitment: Learnerships can range from 12 to 24 months or more. Be ready to commit full time if required.
- Eligibility criteria: Age (often 18-35), citizenship, unemployment status, sometimes no prior similar qualification. Check the specific one.
- Application materials: Be ready with certified copies of your ID, your Matric certificate (or latest qualification), your CV, maybe a motivational letter, sometimes proof of residence etc.
- Deadlines: Very important. Even reputable programmes close once the intake is filled, often earlier than advertised.
Sample Application Roadmap & Tips
To make it easier for potential applicants, here’s a step-by-step guide you can follow:
- Identify sectors you’re interested in
Think about what industries excite you (IT, health, engineering, creative media, retail etc.). Filter learnerships by those sectors to focus your efforts. - Set up alerts
On SETA websites, job boards, or aggregators—some allow email or SMS alerts. This way, you’re notified when new learnerships open. - Gather your documents early
Before deadlines:- Certified ID copy
- Matric certificate (or grade results)
- CV, up to date and clearly formatted
- Proof of residence
- Any subject specific certificates (e.g. Maths, Science) or additional qualifications
- Prepare motivation / cover-letter
Many applications ask why you want the learnership, what your goals are. Be honest, concise, and show what you will contribute and why you are a fit. - Apply broadly
Don’t apply for just one; apply for multiple programmes to increase chances. - Follow up
After submission, monitor your email or contact. Sometimes there are assessments, interviews, physical tests etc. - Be cautious of scams
If an opportunity asks for large upfront payments, or the provider cannot prove accreditation; or if the application is only through unofficial channels without verification—be wary. Always cross-check.
Challenges & What to Be Mindful Of
While there are many learnerships, there are also challenges:
- Competition is high. Many applicants for few spots, especially for the more prestigious or well-paid programmes.
- Geographical barriers: Some learnerships are not available in all provinces; transport or relocation can be a problem.
- Required subject gaps: If you didn’t take Maths or Science, some technical learnerships may not be open to you. However, there are learnerships in retail, hospitality, customer service etc., with fewer subject constraints.
- Length and commitment: Some learnerships require you to be available full time, or to travel/relocate. Be certain you can meet these demands.
Real Examples to Watch / Recent or Upcoming Deadlines
Here are a few specific programmes you might still have a chance to apply for:
- Adcock Ingram Learnership Programme 2025 — closing date: ~31 October 2025. Unisasapplication
- Msobo Coal Learnership Programme 2025 — closing date: ~31 October 2025. Unisasapplication
- Dept of Energy Learnership Programme 2025 — closing around 27 October 2025. Unisasapplication
- W&RSETA, LGSETA, Services SETA—various programmes still open via SA-SETA portal. sa-seta.com
Remember: These dates might shift or become obsolete if the intake fills early, so always check the advertised source just before applying.
Conclusion
Learnerships remain one of the most effective routes for young South Africans to gain skills, work experience, and a pathway into employment. As of September 2025, there are still many opportunities across sectors such as firefighting, media, banking and finance, health, engineering, retail, local government, and more. Many SETAs and companies are still taking applications, with deadlines stretching into October, November, and in some cases December.
If you want to maximise your chance:
- Stay informed via official SETA and government portals.
- Be ready with your documents.
- Apply early to avoid missing out.
- Don’t limit yourself to one field; consider sectors you might not have considered that have less competition or lower subject requirements.
With careful preparation, some persistence, and applying widely, you can secure a learnership that suits your interest and skills. These programmes not only build your resume but can sometimes lead to permanent employment.