The Mpumalanga Regional Training Trust (MRTT) is now accepting applications for its three‑year Chef Apprenticeship Programme 2026 – a chance for unemployed youth to start a career in professional cookery right now.
What the programme offers
The apprenticeship is run through the MRTT Hospitality & Tourism Academy at the Kanyamazane Training Centre in Nelspruit. It lasts three years and provides structured, on‑the‑job training in culinary arts. The deadline for applications is 19 August 2026.
Who can apply
To be eligible you must meet all of the following:
- South African citizen
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Aged between 18 and 32
- Completed Grade 12 (Matric)
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy – Level 2 or higher
- English – Level 3 or higher
- Household income < R60 000 per year (proof required)
- Not currently receiving funding from SETA, NSFAS, Funza Lushaka or any other government programme
- Willing to relocate to Kanyamazane, Nelspruit for the full three years
- Genuine interest in professional cookery or culinary arts
What you gain
Successful apprentices will develop more than basic cooking skills. You will learn:
- Advanced food preparation and plating
- Kitchen hygiene and safety standards
- Teamwork and time‑management under pressure
- Discipline and consistency required in commercial kitchens
The three‑year period gives you time to build a solid foundation for a long‑term culinary career.
How to apply – step by step
- Request or download the application form from the official page: MRTT apprenticeship application page.
- Complete every section of the form – incomplete forms are rejected.
- Get a certified copy of your ID (must be dated within the last three months).
- Obtain a certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate.
- Prepare a short CV that includes a current phone number and email address.
- Provide proof of household income (pay slips, tax certificates, or a signed affidavit).
- Attach all documents and submit them to the email addresses admin.academic@rttrust.co.za or lindiwe@rttrust.co.za, or hand‑deliver them to the Kanyamazane Training Centre.
- Keep a copy of everything you send for your records.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that your ID, matric certificate and CV all show the same name and ID number.
- Verify that your Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy and English results meet the minimum levels before you apply.
- Gather the household‑income proof early – informal income can be tricky to document.
- If you are unsure about any funding restriction, call MRTT on 063 647 8526 for clarification.
- Confirm whether a relocation allowance or accommodation is offered before you commit, as the advertisement does not specify these benefits.
- Beware of an outdated R50 application fee on older forms; ask MRTT directly if a fee applies to the 2026 intake.
Next steps
If you meet all the criteria, act now. Obtain the form, certify your documents, and send a complete application before 19 August 2026. This apprenticeship can be the first step toward a professional culinary career, but only if you plan for the three‑year commitment, the relocation, and the income requirements.