South Africa's Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) are responsible for managing skills development in their respective industries. Each SETA offers funded learnerships that combine classroom learning with practical workplace experience — and they're one of the best routes into employment for young South Africans.
What Is a SETA?
SETAs were established under the Skills Development Act to promote and facilitate skills development across different economic sectors. There are currently 21 SETAs in South Africa, each covering a specific industry. They receive funding through the Skills Development Levy paid by employers and use it to fund learnerships, apprenticeships, and bursaries.
Major SETAs and Their Learnerships
MERSETA — Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services
MERSETA covers the manufacturing, engineering, automotive, and metals sectors. Popular learnerships include:
- Mechanical fitting
- Electrical engineering
- Automotive repair and maintenance
- Welding and fabrication
CETA — Construction Education and Training Authority
CETA focuses on the construction and built environment sector. Learnerships available:
- Bricklaying and plastering
- Plumbing
- Carpentry and joinery
- Civil engineering support
HWSETA — Health and Welfare SETA
HWSETA covers health, social development, and veterinary sciences. Learnerships include:
- Nursing assistant programmes
- Pharmacy assistant
- Community health worker
- Social auxiliary work
MICT SETA — Media, Information and Communication Technologies
MICT SETA is ideal for those interested in IT, telecommunications, and media. Learnerships include:
- IT technical support
- Systems development
- Network administration
- Digital media production
Other Key SETAs
- BANKSETA — Banking and financial services learnerships
- W&RSETA — Wholesale and retail sector programmes
- TETA — Transport education and training
- AgriSETA — Agricultural sector learnerships
- CATHSSETA — Culture, arts, tourism, and hospitality
- ETDP SETA — Education, training, and development
How to Find and Apply for SETA Learnerships
- Visit the specific SETA's website for current openings
- Check FreshTalent's learnership listings — we aggregate opportunities from multiple SETAs
- Prepare your matric certificate, certified ID copy, and updated CV
- Apply before the closing date — most SETAs have strict deadlines
- Follow up with the SETA or host employer after two to three weeks
Most SETA learnerships require a matric certificate, South African citizenship, and an age between 18 and 35. Stipends typically range from R3 500 to R6 500 per month. Start browsing available learnerships on FreshTalent today.