If you’re a young person living in Mpumalanga and you’ve been searching for a real chance to gain valuable skills, build a career, or even start your own manufacturing business, the Mpumalanga Stainless Initiative (MSI) may have the perfect opportunity for you. The fully funded 12-month Coded Welding & Steel Fabrication Training and Business Incubation Programme is now open for applications, offering both technical training and entrepreneurship development for committed youth.
This programme is designed to support young people who want to build a future in the steel industry—whether by qualifying as artisans or by launching their own small enterprises. With practical training, business support and access to industrial facilities, the opportunity aims to uplift local youth and strengthen the province’s manufacturing sector.
Applications close on 12 December 2025.
What This Programme Offers
This 12-month initiative gives participants full exposure to the technical and entrepreneurial components needed in the welding and fabrication industry. For the first half of the programme, learners receive accredited coded welding and fabrication training. This includes hands-on workshop practice, industry-level safety instruction, and exposure to real fabrication environments.
Alongside this technical development, participants also receive comprehensive business support. This covers mentorship, compliance assistance, company registration, and guidance in accessing future opportunities within the industrial and manufacturing sector. The programme further includes monthly stipends, essential training materials and access to shared equipment and industrial workspace.
This combined approach ensures that participants can either pursue employment as skilled welders or build their own enterprises with confidence.
Who Is Offering This Programme?
Mpumalanga Stainless Initiative (MSI)
MSI supports the development of South Africa’s stainless steel sector through artisan training, small business support and industrial workspace provision. The organisation collaborates with government, educational partners and technical institutions.
Nkangala TVET College
A leading training provider in Mpumalanga that specialises in engineering and vocational courses aligned with local industry needs.
Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT)
The provincial department focused on supporting youth employment, enterprise development and industrial growth across Mpumalanga.
These partners have combined their strengths to design a programme that addresses both skills shortages and entrepreneurship challenges in the steel manufacturing sector.
Minimum Requirements
To apply, candidates must:
- Have completed Grade 9 with Mathematics and Science
- Be aged 15 to 35
- Be South African citizens living in Mpumalanga
- Commit to the full 12-month duration
Beneficial but Not Required
Applicants with any of the following will have an advantage:
- N2 Certificate with Plater/Structural Steel Drawing (PSSD)
- NCV Level 3 (with all 7 subjects passed)
- Technical Matric with Mathematics and Science
Even without these added qualifications, applicants who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to apply.
What You Will Learn in the Technical Training
During the first six months, participants receive accredited training in:
- Coded welding processes
- Fabrication principles
- Steel cutting, bending and joining
- Safety standards and workshop procedures
- Practical hands-on fabrication work
This qualification is SETA-accredited and recognised throughout South Africa, offering a strong foundation for both employment and entrepreneurial growth.
Business Incubation and Support
After the technical component, the programme shifts to business development training. Participants receive guidance on:
- Business management and administration
- Understanding markets within the steel industry
- Setting up and managing a company
- Accessing contracts and industrial opportunities
The programme also supports participants with:
- CIPC company registration
- SARS compliance
- COIDA registration
- CSD supplier registration
These steps are essential for operating legally, applying for tenders and securing both public and private sector work.
Access to Industrial Facilities
One of the biggest challenges for young entrepreneurs in manufacturing is access to proper tools, equipment and workspace. This programme provides shared industrial facilities where participants can complete practical projects and build the foundation of their small enterprises.
Limited Intake
Only 25 candidates will be selected. Priority will be given to:
- Youth
- Women
- Township-based entrepreneurs
Because of the limited spaces, applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure all documents are complete.
How to Apply
Submit the following documents:
- CV
- Certified ID copy
- Certified copies of all qualifications
Email all documents to: hr@mpstainless.co.za
If you do not hear back within 14 days after the closing date, your application was not successful.
