The Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA) is now accepting applications for its 2025/2026 skills development programmes. These include learnerships, bursaries, internships, and skills courses designed to support unemployed youth and workers in the education and training sector. Applicants can benefit from monthly stipends, bursary funding, and nationally recognized qualifications. The closing dates vary but are usually in early 2026, often around March.
About ETDP SETA
ETDP SETA plays a vital role in enhancing skills within South Africa’s education and training workforce. Supported by the Department of Higher Education and Training, it focuses on improving quality, productivity, and career opportunities in fields such as Early Childhood Development, Education Management, and End-User Computing. The authority works with accredited providers to deliver programmes that blend theory with practical experience.
Programme Options
Learnerships
Learnerships offer hands-on training combined with classroom learning in areas like Early Childhood Development and End-User Computing. These programmes run from 12 to 18 months and provide stipends ranging between R2,500 and R4,500 monthly. Applicants should have completed Grade 12.
Bursaries
Bursaries support undergraduate and postgraduate studies in fields including BEd and Education Management. They cover tuition fees, books, and accommodation, with a value of up to R80,000. These programmes last from one to four years. Candidates must have Grade 12 and acceptance into a tertiary institution.
Internships
Internships provide practical experience related to diplomas and degrees in Education Management, HR Development, and similar fields. They typically last from 12 to 24 months and include stipends similar to learnerships. Applicants must hold the relevant diploma or degree.
Skills Programmes
Short-term courses lasting from one to six months cover topics like Youth Development and Facilitator Training. These programmes offer partial funding but no stipends and require a Grade 12 certificate.
How the Programmes Work
Each programme combines classroom instruction, practical workplace experience, and formal assessments. Successful completion results in nationally recognized qualifications or certificates that improve career prospects in the education and training sector.
Programmes are delivered through ETDP SETA-accredited institutions, ensuring high-quality training that meets industry standards.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African citizen with valid identification.
- Between 18 and 35 years old for learnerships and bursaries (no age restriction for internships).
- Minimum educational requirements: Grade 12 for learnerships and skills programmes; Grade 12 plus tertiary acceptance for bursaries; diploma or degree for internships.
- Unemployed or currently employed in the education and training sector depending on the programme.
- No previous participation in the same ETDP SETA programme.
- Clear criminal record confirmed by background checks.
Preference is given to candidates from designated employment equity groups, including Black South Africans, Coloureds, Indians, women, and persons with disabilities. Residents of Gauteng, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal are also encouraged to apply.
Desired Skills and Attributes
Candidates should possess:
- Strong verbal and written communication.
- A genuine interest in education and training.
- Facilitation and interpersonal skills, especially for internships and learnerships.
- Basic computer skills and numeracy.
- Professionalism and a dedication to learner development.
Benefits of Participating
Joining ETDP SETA’s programmes offers:
- Monthly stipends between R2,500 and R4,500 for learnerships and internships.
- Bursaries covering tuition, books, and accommodation up to R80,000.
- Nationally recognized qualifications from NQF Level 2 up to Level 7.
- Enhanced employment opportunities within South Africa’s education sector.
- Access to mentorship and accredited training institutions.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by early 2026, with bursary deadlines usually in March. To apply:
- Email your application to info@etdpseta.org.za, or
- Deliver it in person to ETDP SETA House, 2-6 New Street, Gandhi Square, South Marshalltown, Johannesburg CBD, or
- Mail to Private Bag X105, Melville, 2109.
Required documents include:
- A detailed CV.
- Certified copies of your South African ID.
- Certified academic certificates or proof of acceptance to a tertiary institution for bursaries.
- Certified proof of residence, no older than six months.
- Clearly state the programme you are applying for (e.g., Learnership: Early Childhood Development, Bursary: BEd).
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. No application fees are charged.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 60 to 90 days after the closing date. Background checks on criminal records, citizenship, and qualifications will be conducted. If you do not receive feedback within 90 days, consider your application unsuccessful.
Contact Information
For questions or assistance, contact ETDP SETA at:
- Email: info@etdpseta.org.za
- Phone: +27 11 372 3300
- Address: ETDP SETA House, 2-6 New Street, Gandhi Square, South Marshalltown, Johannesburg CBD
- Postal Address: Private Bag X105, Melville, 2109
Visit the official website at www.etdpseta.org.za.
Participating in ETDP SETA’s skills development programmes is a powerful way to build a career in South Africa’s education and training sector. Apply early to take advantage of these opportunities in 2025/2026.