What Is a SETA and Why Does It Matter for Your Career?
Before you can find the right learnership, you need to understand the system behind them. In South Africa, learnerships are not simply company training programmes — they are government-regulated qualifications funded and overseen by bodies called Sector Education and Training Authorities, or SETAs.
SETAs were established under the Skills Development Act of 1998 to address South Africa’s skills shortage by channelling money from the Skills Development Levy into workplace training. Every company with a payroll above R500,000 per year is legally required to pay 1% of that payroll into the levy. SETAs collect these funds and redistribute them to employers who run accredited learnership programmes.
This matters to you as a job seeker for one reason: companies are financially incentivised to take you on as a learner. They receive grants for doing so. That means there are real, funded opportunities available — you just need to know which SETA covers the industry you want to work in, and where to look.
South Africa currently has 21 SETAs, each responsible for a specific sector of the economy. Below is a complete breakdown of each one, what industries they cover, what learnerships they typically offer, and how to access them. If you are ready to start applying, you can browse current learnership openings on Jobs South Africa while you research which sector suits you best.
The Complete List of SETAs and Their Learnerships
1. AGRISETA — Agriculture Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Farming, forestry, fishing, agro-processing, veterinary services, nature conservation.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Agribusiness Management
- Agricultural Engineering
- Animal Production
- Plant Production
- Nature Conservation
- Forestry
- Fishing and Aquaculture
Who should apply: If you are interested in food production, farming, or environmental work, AgriSETA is your entry point. Many programmes accept matric candidates with Life Sciences or Agricultural Science as subjects.
Website: agriseta.co.za
2. BANKSETA — Banking Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Commercial banking, retail banking, investment banking, microfinance.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Banking Services (NQF Level 4)
- Retail Banking (NQF Level 5)
- Financial Markets (NQF Level 6)
- Call Centre Operations in Banking
- Credit Management
Who should apply: BANKSETA learnerships are among the most competitive in South Africa, but also among the best-paid, with stipends often reaching R6,000 to R8,000 per month. A matric with Mathematics (not just Literacy) is typically required. Major banks including Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank, Absa, and Capitec all participate in BANKSETA-funded programmes.
Website: bankseta.org.za
3. CATHSSETA — Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Hotels, restaurants, guesthouses, tourism operators, sport and recreation, arts and culture organisations.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Accommodation Services
- Food and Beverage Services
- Professional Chef Training
- Tour Guiding
- Travel and Tourism
- Event Management
- Fitness and Recreation
Who should apply: South Africa’s tourism and hospitality industry is one of the largest employers in the country. CATHSSETA learnerships are ideal for people who enjoy working with people, have a passion for food, travel, or sport, and want a qualification that opens doors internationally. Most programmes require only a matric certificate.
Website: cathsseta.org.za
4. CETA — Construction Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Civil engineering, building construction, quantity surveying, plumbing, electrical installation, roads and infrastructure.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Bricklaying and Plastering
- Carpentry and Roof Work
- Plumbing
- Quantity Surveying Support
- Construction Project Management
- Site Agent
- Roads Construction
Who should apply: With South Africa’s ongoing infrastructure investment, CETA-funded learnerships feed directly into government projects, housing developments, and private construction firms. Physical fitness is required for many trades-based programmes. Matric with Maths or Technical subjects is preferred but not always mandatory at entry level.
Website: ceta.org.za
5. CHIETA — Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Petroleum, plastics, explosives, pharmaceuticals, paint, cleaning products, polymer industries.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Chemical Plant Operations
- Laboratory Analysis
- Petroleum Operations
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
- Environmental Monitoring
Who should apply: CHIETA learnerships suit candidates with a strong background in Physical Sciences and Mathematics. Companies like Sasol, Engen, AECI, and various pharmaceutical manufacturers participate in CHIETA-funded programmes. These are technically demanding roles with good long-term career prospects.
Website: chieta.org.za
6. COMPASSETA — Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration SETA
Industries covered: Labour dispute resolution, arbitration, mediation, and conciliation services.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Dispute Resolution Services
- Labour Relations Practice
Who should apply: A smaller, specialised SETA focused on labour law and dispute resolution. Best suited to candidates interested in labour relations, law, or human resources at a more advanced level. Most programmes require post-matric qualifications.
Website: compasseta.org.za
7. CTFL SETA — Clothing, Textiles, Footwear and Leather Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Clothing manufacturing, textile mills, footwear production, leather goods.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Clothing Production
- Textile Manufacturing
- Footwear Manufacturing
- Pattern Making and Design
- Quality Control in Clothing
Who should apply: The clothing and textile sector employs a large number of South Africans, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. CTFL SETA learnerships are accessible to matric candidates and provide practical manufacturing and design skills.
Website: ctflseta.org.za
8. EWSETA — Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Electricity generation and distribution, water treatment and supply, renewable energy, petroleum pipelines.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Electrical Engineering (Power Systems)
- Water and Wastewater Treatment
- Solar Energy Installation
- Wind Energy Technology
- Gas and Petroleum Pipeline Operations
Who should apply: Given South Africa’s energy challenges and growing renewable energy sector, EWSETA learnerships are increasingly valuable. Eskom, municipalities, and private energy companies participate in these programmes. Mathematics and Physical Science are typically required at matric level.
Website: ewseta.org.za
9. FASSET — Financial and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Accounting firms, auditing firms, tax consulting, financial advisory, investment management, development finance.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Bookkeeping (NQF Level 3 and 4)
- Accounting Technician
- Tax Administration
- Internal Auditing
- Financial Management
Who should apply: FASSET is one of the most structured SETAs for career advancement. Learners who complete FASSET programmes often go on to study towards SAICA, SAIPA, or CIMA qualifications. Matric with Accounting and Mathematics is the standard entry requirement. The Big Four accounting firms — Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, and EY — run FASSET-registered programmes.
Website: fasset.org.za
10. FOODBEV SETA — Food and Beverages Manufacturing Industry Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Food processing, beverage production, dairy, bakeries, meat processing, grain milling.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Food Processing
- Beverage Production
- Dairy Technology
- Baking
- Food Safety and Quality Assurance
Who should apply: South Africa’s food and beverage industry is a major employer. Companies like Tiger Brands, Pioneer Foods, Clover, and SAB participate in FoodBev SETA programmes. Entry-level learnerships are accessible to matric candidates; technical roles may require additional science subjects.
Website: foodbev.co.za
11. HWSETA — Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Hospitals, clinics, community health centres, social welfare organisations, pharmacies, disability care.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Auxiliary Health Care
- Community Development
- Early Childhood Development (ECD)
- Social Auxiliary Work
- Pharmacy Assistance
- Healthcare Administration
Who should apply: HWSETA learnerships are in consistently high demand given South Africa’s public health needs. The Early Childhood Development learnership is particularly accessible and addresses a critical social need. Both government health departments and private healthcare providers run HWSETA programmes. A medical fitness certificate is required for clinical learnerships.
Website: hwseta.org.za
12. INSETA — Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Short-term insurance, long-term insurance, medical aid administration, reinsurance, pension funds.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Short-Term Insurance (NQF Level 4)
- Long-Term Insurance (NQF Level 4)
- Risk Management
- Claims Management
- Underwriting
Who should apply: South Africa’s insurance sector is large and relatively stable as an employer. INSETA learnerships are available at major insurers including Hollard, Momentum, Discovery, Santam, and Old Mutual. Many programmes lead to FAIS compliance qualifications, which are required for anyone who gives financial advice in South Africa.
Website: inseta.org.za
13. LGSETA — Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Municipalities, district councils, metro governments, municipal entities.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Municipal Finance and Administration
- Municipal Supply Chain Management
- Community Development
- Infrastructure and Engineering Services
- Water Services Management
Who should apply: LGSETA learnerships are run by municipalities across all nine provinces. They are particularly valuable for candidates who want to work in public administration. Matric is the standard entry requirement, though some programmes require prior administrative experience or post-matric study.
Website: lgseta.org.za
14. MICT SETA — Media, Information and Communication Technology Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Software development, IT infrastructure, telecommunications, broadcasting, digital media, cybersecurity.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Systems Development (NQF Level 5)
- IT Technical Support (NQF Level 5)
- Network Administration
- Cybersecurity Fundamentals
- Digital Marketing
- Broadcasting and Media Production
- Database Administration
Who should apply: MICT SETA is one of the most sought-after SETAs in South Africa given the demand for technology skills. Learners who complete IT learnerships are highly employable, and stipends are competitive. Mathematics at matric level is typically required. Major companies including Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, and various IT firms participate in MICT SETA programmes.
Website: mict.org.za
15. MERSETA — Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Metal fabrication, automotive manufacturing, electrical engineering, plastics manufacturing, new tyre manufacturing.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Fitting and Turning
- Boilermaking
- Electrical Engineering (Trade)
- Welding
- Automotive Repair and Maintenance
- Production Management
- Mechanical Engineering Technician
Who should apply: MERSETA covers South Africa’s critical manufacturing base and runs some of the most established learnership programmes in the country. Toyota, Ford, Volkswagen, and Transnet are among the major employers who participate. Matric with Mathematics and Physical Science is required for technical programmes; some trade learnerships have more flexible entry requirements.
Website: merseta.org.za
16. MQA — Mining Qualifications Authority
Industries covered: Gold, platinum, coal, diamond, chrome, manganese, and other mineral mining operations.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Mining Operations
- Rock Drill Operations
- Blasting Operations
- Mine Surveying
- Mine Environmental Control
- Safety Management in Mining
Who should apply: South Africa’s mining sector remains one of its largest employers, particularly in Gauteng, the North West, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga. MQA learnerships are physically demanding but offer good stipends and long-term employment prospects. Medical fitness certificates and underground medical examinations are required for most programmes. Anglo American, Implats, Sibanye Stillwater, and Exxaro participate extensively.
Website: mqa.org.za
17. PSETA — Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: National and provincial government departments.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Public Administration (NQF Level 4 and 5)
- Human Resources Management in Government
- Project Management in the Public Sector
- Records and Archives Management
Who should apply: PSETA programmes are for candidates who want to build a career in the public sector. Learnerships are hosted across various government departments at national and provincial level. These are particularly relevant if you want to understand how government works from the inside, and they often lead to permanent employment in the civil service.
Website: pseta.org.za
18. RCL SETA — Retail and Consumer Services Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Supermarkets, retail stores, pharmacies, wholesale trade, motor dealerships, hairdressing, beauty therapy.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Retail Management (NQF Level 4)
- Wholesale and Retail Operations (NQF Level 2 and 3)
- Wholesale and Retail Supervision (NQF Level 4)
- Hairdressing
- Beauty Therapy
- Motor Dealership Operations
Who should apply: The retail sector is one of the largest employers of young South Africans. RCL SETA learnerships are accessible to matric candidates and sometimes even to learners who have not completed matric, depending on the NQF level. Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Mr Price, and Clicks all run RCL SETA-registered programmes. This is one of the most practical starting points for young job seekers with no prior experience.
Website: rclseta.org.za
19. SASSETA — Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Private security companies, policing support services, fire services, correctional services, court administration.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Security Guarding (NQF Level 3)
- Close Protection (NQF Level 4)
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Fire Fighting
- Emergency and Disaster Management
Who should apply: SASSETA learnerships suit candidates with an interest in security, protection, and emergency services. Physical fitness standards apply. The security industry is one of South Africa’s largest private sector employers, meaning learnership completions often translate directly into employment.
Website: sasseta.org.za
20. SERVICES SETA — Services Sector Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Real estate, legal services, business consulting, cleaning services, waste management, call centres, laundry services.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Real Estate (NQF Level 4 and 5)
- Business Administration Services
- Customer Management
- Contact Centre Support
- Generic Management
- Paralegal Services
Who should apply: Services SETA covers a wide range of service industries and is one of the more flexible SETAs in terms of learnership variety. The Contact Centre learnership is particularly popular and in demand, as South Africa has a large call centre industry. Most programmes require matric.
Website: serviceseta.org.za
21. TETA — Transport Education and Training Authority
Industries covered: Road transport, rail, aviation, maritime, freight logistics, courier services, taxi industry.
Typical learnerships offered:
- Road Transport Management (NQF Level 4)
- Freight Handling
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Aviation Ground Handling
- Freight Forwarding and Customs
- Forklift Operations
Who should apply: South Africa’s logistics sector is critical to the economy and consistently short of skilled workers. TETA learnerships suit candidates interested in transport, operations, and supply chain. Matric is typically required; some operational learnerships have additional physical fitness requirements. Companies like Transnet, DHL, Bidvest Panalpina, and various road hauliers run TETA-registered programmes.
Website: teta.org.za
How to Use This List Effectively
Knowing which SETA covers your sector of interest is only the first step. Here is how to move from research to application:
Step 1: Choose your sector
Do not apply randomly across multiple SETAs. Identify one or two sectors that genuinely interest you and where your matric subjects give you an advantage. Employers can tell the difference between a motivated applicant and someone who applied everywhere.
Step 2: Visit the SETA website
Every SETA lists its accredited training providers and, in many cases, companies currently running learnership programmes. Look for sections labelled “Learnerships”, “Skills Programmes”, or “Opportunities”. Application windows typically open between January and March, and again around July for mid-year intakes.
Step 3: Contact companies directly
You do not have to wait for advertised positions. If you know which companies in your chosen sector work with a particular SETA, contact their HR departments directly in November or December to ask about upcoming learnership intake. Many companies fill their programmes before they are publicly advertised.
Step 4: Apply through job boards
Advertised learnerships are listed on company career portals and job sites. Jobs South Africa maintains a dedicated learnership listings page updated regularly with verified opportunities across all sectors and provinces.
Step 5: Prepare the right documents
Have certified copies of your ID, matric certificate, and proof of residence ready before you apply. Also prepare an affidavit confirming unemployment if you are not currently employed. Applications submitted without the correct documents are routinely disqualified.
Stipend Ranges by Sector (2026)
Stipend amounts vary significantly by sector and NQF level. Below are realistic ranges based on current SETA guidelines and employer practice:
- Banking and Finance (BANKSETA, FASSET): R5,000 – R8,500 per month
- Information Technology (MICT SETA): R4,500 – R7,500 per month
- Insurance (INSETA): R4,000 – R7,000 per month
- Mining (MQA): R4,000 – R6,500 per month
- Engineering and Manufacturing (MERSETA, CETA): R3,500 – R6,000 per month
- Energy (EWSETA): R3,500 – R6,000 per month
- Retail (RCL SETA): R2,800 – R5,000 per month
- Hospitality and Tourism (CATHSSETA): R2,500 – R4,500 per month
- Public Service (PSETA, LGSETA): R3,000 – R5,000 per month
- Health and Welfare (HWSETA): R3,000 – R5,500 per month
Stipends are not negotiable — they are set by the company within SETA guidelines. However, higher NQF level programmes and learnerships with large corporates tend to pay toward the upper end of these ranges.
Common Mistakes That Get Applications Rejected
Learnership programmes receive thousands of applications for a limited number of places. These are the most common reasons candidates are eliminated before they even reach the interview stage:
- Uncertified documents: Copies of your ID and certificates must be certified by a commissioner of oaths. Uncertified copies are rejected without exception.
- Missing documents: Submitting an incomplete application is treated as not applying at all.
- Applying outside the intake window: Most programmes have fixed application periods. Late applications are not considered.
- Not meeting the age requirement: The majority of SETA-funded learnerships are targeted at candidates aged 18 to 35. Some programmes have stricter age bands.
- Already employed: Most learnerships are specifically for unemployed South Africans. Submitting an application while employed may disqualify you.
- Applying to the wrong SETA: Each SETA only funds learnerships in its own sector. Contacting BANKSETA about a hospitality learnership, for example, wastes your time and theirs.
Where to Search for Advertised Learnerships Right Now
Once you know which sector and SETA you are targeting, use these channels to find advertised opportunities:
- Jobs South Africa — Learnerships: A dedicated listing of verified learnership vacancies updated regularly across all sectors and all nine provinces.
- Individual SETA websites: Each SETA website lists accredited training providers and sometimes current vacancies.
- Company career portals: Go directly to the careers page of companies in your target sector. Most large employers advertise learnership intakes several months in advance.
- Jobs South Africa main site: Alongside learnerships, the site also lists internships, graduate programmes, and entry-level vacancies for candidates at different stages of their careers.
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET): The DHET website publishes national skills development updates and sometimes lists SETA contact information for applicants.
A Final Word on Competition and Persistence
South Africa has over 3,200 SETA-accredited training providers operating across the country, and tens of thousands of learnership places are funded each year. The challenge is not that opportunities do not exist — it is that far more people want them than there are places available.
The candidates who succeed share a few common traits: they apply early, they apply to multiple programmes in their chosen sector, they keep their documents ready at all times, and they treat every application with the same seriousness they would give a job application. A learnership is not a backup plan. For hundreds of thousands of South Africans who have gone through the system, it was the direct path to a stable career.
Your next step is straightforward. Identify the two or three SETAs most relevant to your interests, visit their websites to understand which companies run their programmes, and check the current learnership listings on Jobs South Africa to see what is open right now. The sooner you start, the better your chances of securing a place in the next intake.
