If you are unemployed and love cooking, the window to start a professional career in hospitality is open now – the African Global Skills Academy Professional Cookery Learnership Programme 2026 closes on 12 June 2026, and spots are filling fast.
What the learnership offers
This is a 12‑month, NQF Level 4 learnership based in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. Learners receive a blend of classroom theory and hands‑on kitchen work. On successful completion, you will be awarded a CATHSSETA‑accredited certificate that is recognised across South Africa’s hospitality sector.
Who can apply
- South African citizens aged 18 – 27
- Currently unemployed
- Living in Johannesburg or nearby areas
- No prior work experience required
- Matric certificate or Grade 11 report (certified copy)
- Valid South African ID (certified copy)
- Recent SARS tax compliance letter (dated within 6 months)
- Updated CV in PDF format
All documents must be clear, legible PDFs – image files will not be accepted.
What you will gain
- Monthly stipend of R3 000 to help with transport and daily costs
- Structured training that covers food preparation, cooking techniques, kitchen hygiene and hospitality service standards
- Real workplace exposure in a professional kitchen
- Mentorship from experienced chefs
- Teamwork, time‑management and communication skills
- A CATHSSETA‑accredited qualification to boost your CV
How to apply – step by step
- Prepare your documents. Gather a certified copy of your ID, Matric/Grade 11 report, SARS letter and an up‑to‑date CV. Save each file as a PDF.
- Write a short application email. Keep it professional and to the point (see tip below).
- Attach the PDFs. Double‑check that every required file is attached before sending.
- Email your application. Send everything to agsarecruitment@africanglobalacademy.co.za with the subject line Professional Cookery 2026.
- Wait for confirmation. The recruitment team will review applications after the closing date. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for assessments or interviews.
Tips to improve your chances
- Include a brief personal profile in your CV that explains why you are passionate about cooking and hospitality.
- Mention any informal experience – home cooking, school events, church catering, volunteer food work – even if it was unpaid.
- Proofread your email and CV for spelling or grammar errors.
- Submit before the 12 June deadline. Late or incomplete applications are usually dismissed.
- Keep your phone and email active after you apply so you don’t miss any follow‑up messages.
Final thoughts and next steps
This learnership is a practical way to turn a love of food into a qualified career path. The stipend, mentorship and recognised certificate together give you a solid foundation for entry‑level roles such as Commis Chef, Line Cook or Kitchen Assistant, and open pathways to senior positions later on.
Start by gathering your documents today, write a concise application email, and send it before 12 June 2026. Taking this step now could be the first move towards a stable and rewarding career in South Africa’s vibrant hospitality industry.