Gain Practical Skills and Build a Career in South Africa’s Food & Beverage Sector
If you’re looking to build a career in the fast-growing world of food and beverage manufacturing, the FoodBev SETA Skills Development Programmes for 2025/2026 could be your stepping stone. These nationally funded initiatives are designed to support young South Africans, both unemployed and working in the industry, through structured learnerships, bursaries, internships, and short skills programmes.
With training opportunities available in Gauteng, the Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, these programmes offer more than just education — they offer real opportunities for transformation and employment.
What is FoodBev SETA and Why Does it Matter?
The Food and Beverage Manufacturing Sector Education and Training Authority (FoodBev SETA) was established to build and enhance skills in one of South Africa’s most essential industries — food and beverage manufacturing.
Backed by the Department of Higher Education and Training, FoodBev SETA plays a pivotal role in promoting inclusive growth and creating a skilled workforce. Through its programmes, learners can access accredited training in areas such as:
- Food Processing
- Beverage Manufacturing
- Food Science
- Quality Assurance
- Food Safety and Compliance
By improving access to skills training, FoodBev SETA not only helps individual careers but also strengthens the entire industry.
What is the Goal of These Programmes?
These development programmes aim to:
- Set and uphold high-quality learning standards
- Improve access to education in food and beverage manufacturing
- Promote transformation by supporting previously disadvantaged groups
- Strengthen the workforce in a key economic sector
More than just academic exercises, these programmes are designed to deliver real, employable skills aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Structure of the FoodBev SETA Programmes
Each programme is made up of theoretical training, hands-on experience, and formal assessments. They are delivered through FoodBev SETA-accredited training providers, and participants who complete them successfully earn nationally recognized certificates or qualifications.
Learnerships
Qualification: NQF Level 2–5 (e.g., Food Processing, Beverage Manufacturing)
Duration: 12–18 months
Eligibility: Grade 12
Stipend: R2,500–R4,000 per month
Bursaries
Qualification: Undergraduate studies (e.g., Food Science, Quality Assurance)
Duration: 1–4 years
Eligibility: Grade 12 and tertiary institution acceptance
Funding: Up to R60,000 (covers tuition, books, accommodation)
Internships
Qualification: NQF Level 5–7 (e.g., Food Technology, Quality Assurance)
Duration: 12–24 months
Eligibility: Diploma or Degree
Stipend: R2,500–R4,000 per month
Skills Programmes
Qualification: Short courses (e.g., Food Safety, Baking Technology)
Duration: 1–6 months
Eligibility: Grade 12
Funding: Partial funding, no stipend
These programmes are carefully structured to meet both learner and industry needs.
Responsibilities Within Each Programme
Depending on the stream you join, your responsibilities will vary. Here’s what you can expect:
Learnership Participants:
- Take part in practical tasks such as food production and quality control
- Attend classroom-based learning and write assessments
- Follow food safety protocols and industry standards
Bursary Recipients:
- Maintain academic performance throughout the study period
- Submit progress reports and complete assigned coursework
- Participate in projects related to food manufacturing or quality assurance
Interns:
- Assist with quality checks, product testing, and compliance monitoring
- Support production line improvements and process efficiency
- Join workshops and mentorship sessions for professional growth
Why You Should Apply (Programme Benefits)
Participating in the FoodBev SETA Skills Development Programmes can offer you a wide range of benefits:
- Monthly stipends of R2,500–R4,000 for interns and learnership participants
- Bursary support covering tuition, accommodation, and learning materials (up to R60,000)
- Official national qualifications between NQF Level 2 and Level 7
- Greater employability within a high-demand sector
- Mentorship and guidance from industry professionals
In today’s job market, these advantages could make all the difference.
Are You Eligible?
Before applying, make sure you meet the minimum criteria for the programme you’re interested in:
- Must be a South African citizen with a valid ID
- Between the ages of 18 and 35 (applies to bursaries and learnerships)
- Completed Grade 12 (and tertiary acceptance for bursary applicants)
- Hold a relevant diploma or degree if applying for internships
- Must be unemployed or employed within the sector, depending on programme
- No prior participation in the same FoodBev SETA programme
- Clean criminal record (verified through background checks)
Who Gets Preference?
FoodBev SETA is committed to equity and empowerment. As such, preference may be given to:
- Applicants from Employment Equity groups (Black, Coloured, Indian, women, and persons with disabilities)
- Residents of Gauteng, Western Cape, or KwaZulu-Natal
- Candidates who demonstrate a clear commitment to completing the programme
What Skills Should You Have?
Although the programmes are designed to build your capabilities, there are a few foundational skills that will help you succeed:
- Good written and verbal communication
- Interest in food and beverage manufacturing
- Manual dexterity and physical coordination (important for learnerships/internships)
- Basic numeracy and computer skills
- Strong focus on food safety and attention to detail
These qualities are especially important in maintaining the high standards required in food production environments.
How to Apply for FoodBev SETA Programmes
Applications for the 2025/2026 cycle are open until early 2026. For bursary applicants, March is typically the closing month — but deadlines can vary, so keep an eye on official announcements.
To apply, submit:
- Your updated CV
- Certified copies of your ID and academic qualifications
- A university acceptance letter (for bursary applicants)
- Proof of residence, certified within the past 6 months
- A clear indication of the programme you’re applying for (e.g., Internship: Food Technology)
Where to send your application:
- Email: info@foodbev.co.za
- Hand delivery: 7 Wessel Road, Rivonia
- Postal: PO Box 245, Gallo Manor, 2052
Be sure to submit a complete application — late or incomplete submissions will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 60–90 days. If you haven’t heard back by then, your application was unfortunately not successful. Importantly, no application fees are charged.
Contact Details for Enquiries
For more information or to ask questions about your application, use the following contact information:
Email: info@foodbev.co.za
Phone: +27 11 253 7300
Physical Address: 7 Wessel Road, Rivonia
Postal Address: PO Box 245, Gallo Manor, 2052
Website: www.foodbev.co.za