Finding the right learnership or apprenticeship can change your career today, especially with the economy shifting fast – that’s why you need to know which SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) controls your field of interest. Visit Student Office for up‑to‑date listings.
What a SETA learnership is
A SETA learnership blends classroom study with real‑world work experience. Each of South Africa’s 21 SETAs focuses on a specific industry, so the programmes they support are tailored to that sector’s needs.
Who can apply
- School leavers (Grade 10‑12) or graduates – depending on the programme
- South African citizens (or permanent residents where stated)
- Applicants who meet the subject, age, or licence requirements listed for each opportunity
- Unemployed learners, current employees, or specific community groups – as specified by the sponsor
What you gain
- Nationally recognised qualification or occupational certificate
- Paid work placement – stipend amounts vary by programme
- Practical skills that match the demands of South African industry
- Better job prospects once the learnership ends
How to apply – step by step
- Identify the career you want (e.g., engineering, tourism, finance).
- Find the SETA that covers that sector (see the list below).
- Read the specific programme description on the employer’s or SETA’s website.
- Check the eligibility criteria – grades, subjects, licences, age, location.
- Gather required documents: ID, proof of qualification, CV, and any licences.
- Submit the application via the method stated (online portal, email, or hard copy).
- Keep a copy of your submission and note the closing date.
- Follow up if you do not hear back within two weeks.
Tips to improve your chances
- Tailor your CV to the skills listed in the learnership advert.
- Write a short, clear cover letter that shows why you want the role.
- Highlight any work experience, volunteer work, or projects related to the sector.
- Ensure all documents are legible and signed where required.
- Apply early – many programmes fill quickly.
- Register with the SETA’s learner database, but remember this does not guarantee placement.
Key SETAs and the careers they support
merSETA – Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services
Focuses on engineering, manufacturing and technical trades.
- Mechanical & electrical engineering
- Automotive and motor trades
- Metalworking, plastics, production and artisan development
CETA – Construction
Covers all skills needed to build and maintain infrastructure.
- Bricklaying, carpentry, plumbing
- Building & civil construction
- Construction supervision and technical occupations
MICT SETA – Technology, Digital and Communications
For anyone interested in the digital economy.
- IT, software development, programming
- Data analysis, cybersecurity, telecommunications
- Digital media and communications
BANKSETA – Banking and Financial Services
Supports traditional and tech‑driven finance roles.
- Banking, financial services, risk management
- Customer service, data management, digital banking
- IT and business administration in finance
Insider tip: Don’t pick a SETA just because you recognise the companies in that sector. Start with the type of work you want. A software‑development role, for example, is listed under MICT SETA even if the employer is a bank.
AgriSETA – Agriculture
Encompasses modern farming, agribusiness and related machinery.
- Plant and animal production
- Farm management and agricultural machinery
- Agribusiness training
HWSETA – Health and Welfare
Offers pathways into health, social work and community services.
- Healthcare services, social auxiliary work
- Community support, child and youth care
- Health promotion and welfare programmes
W&RSETA – Wholesale and Retail
Targets careers in sales, store operations and supply chains.
- Retail and wholesale operations
- Customer service, merchandising, sales
- Business administration and supervisory development
TETA – Transport and Logistics
Covers movement of goods and people across the country.
- Logistics, warehousing, freight handling
- Professional driving and transport administration
- Supply‑chain management
CATHSSETA – Tourism, Hospitality, Arts and Sport
Focuses on people‑focused industries.
- Tourism, hospitality, professional cookery
- Food & beverage services, travel services
- Arts, culture, sport and recreation
FASSET – Finance and Accounting Services
Designed for those who enjoy numbers and business processes.
- Accounting, bookkeeping, tax services
- Financial management, auditing, consulting
- Business administration and finance operations
Which SETA matches your career?
Match your desired field with the SETA that governs it:
- Engineering & manufacturing – merSETA
- Construction – CETA
- IT & digital – MICT SETA
- Banking – BANKSETA
- Agriculture – AgriSETA
- Health & social services – HWSETA
- Retail & wholesale – W&RSETA
- Transport & logistics – TETA
- Tourism, hospitality, arts, sport – CATHSSETA
- Finance & accounting – FASSET
If your career falls outside these, explore the remaining SETAs that cover sectors such as mining, energy, insurance, education, safety and public service.
What to verify before you apply
- Who is recruiting – employer, SETA or training provider?
- The exact programme name and qualification offered
- Education and subject prerequisites
- Age limit, if any
- Location of training and work placement
- Duration and start date
- Closing date for applications
- Stipend amount (if disclosed)
- All required supporting documents
- Whether the opportunity is for unemployed learners, employees, or a specific group
Final thoughts
Knowing which SETA aligns with your career goal narrows your search and saves time. South Africa’s 21 SETAs cover every major industry, from agriculture to technology. Use the steps above to find a learnership that matches your qualifications, apply early, and keep your documents ready. Remember, SETAs set the sector, not the individual programme – requirements, stipends and deadlines will differ for each opportunity. Good luck on your journey to a skilled future!