Time is running out to turn a three‑month free training into real work or a small business. Mthashana TVET College is offering NSF‑funded Skills Training Programmes in Food Preparation and Entrepreneurship – no tuition fees and a monthly stipend – for unemployed South Africans who are not currently studying.
What the opportunity is
The National Skills Fund (NSF) is funding two practical training streams at Mthashana TVET College. Each programme runs for three months, is completely free, and includes a monthly stipend to help with living costs. The aim is to give you hands‑on skills that can lead to employment or a small‑business start‑up.
Who can apply
- South African citizen
- Unemployed and not enrolled in any study programme
- Never previously received NSF funding
- Willing to attend the full three‑month course
- Have the required educational level (see below)
- People living with disabilities are encouraged to apply
What you will gain
- Practical food‑service skills for catering, hospitality, restaurant work or community feeding projects
- Foundations in starting, managing and growing a small business
- A recognised certificate at no cost
- Monthly stipend to cover transport and basic expenses
- Improved employability and confidence for self‑employment
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents: a certified copy of your ID, a certified copy of your highest school results (Grade 10–12, Matric or NQF Level 2/4 as required), and proof of residence.
- Visit the official Mthashana TVET College student portal: https://mthashana.coltech.co.za/#year.
- Create a new account and fill in your personal details.
- Select the campus or skills centre where you want to study (see sites below).
- Choose either the Food Preparation or Entrepreneurship three‑month programme.
- Upload clear, legible copies of all required documents.
- Submit the application before the closing date.
Programme details
Provider: Mthashana TVET College
Funding partner: National Skills Fund
Type: Skills Training Programme
Duration: 3 months
Stipend: Yes, monthly
Application method: Online only
Closing date: 19 June 2026
Food Preparation – sites and spaces
- Babanango Skills Centre (Vryheid Campus 06) – 15 places
- Mashiyinduku Skills Centre (Maputa Campus 05) – 15 places
Eligibility: Grade 10, 11 or 12 results, Matric Certificate or NQF Level 2 qualification.
Entrepreneurship – sites and spaces
- Dan Nkosi Skills Centre (Vryheid Campus 01) – 20 places
- Maputa Skills Centre (Maputa Campus 05) – 20 places
Eligibility: Grade 12/Matric or NQF Level 4 qualification.
Tips to improve your chances
- Prepare all documents early and ensure they are clear and certified.
- Choose the programme that matches your real goal – food‑service work or small‑business development.
- Read the eligibility criteria carefully; only submit if you meet them.
- Do not wait until the last day – spaces are limited (30 for Food Preparation, 40 for Entrepreneurship).
- All applications are reviewed electronically; a blurry ID can cause rejection.
Insider tip: If you want to sell food, work in catering or start a food‑related venture, pick Food Preparation. If you aim to launch or run a small business, Entrepreneurship is the better fit.
Next steps
Make a checklist of the required documents, decide which programme aligns with your career plan, and submit your online application before 19 June 2026. If you have questions, contact the Occupational Programmes Unit at 034 980 1010 or email Info.Skills@mthashana.edu.za.
This three‑month, fully funded training can give you the practical skills you need now. Take action today and secure your place before the deadline.