Build Your Career in Public Service with PSETA
The Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA) invites young South Africans to apply for its 2025/2026 Skills Development Programmes. Whether you are looking to start your career or enhance your skills in the public sector, PSETA offers learnerships, bursaries, internships, and skills programmes designed to prepare you for roles in national and provincial government departments, public entities, and legislatures.
About PSETA
Funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training, PSETA plays a vital role in nurturing a skilled workforce for South Africa’s public service. Its programmes focus on fields such as Public Administration and Human Resource Management, all aligned with the National Skills Development Plan 2030. By investing in youth and current public sector employees, PSETA supports transformation and improved service delivery.
Purpose of the Programmes
PSETA’s Skills Development initiatives aim to:
- Integrate skills development into government capacity building
- Identify and address sector skills needs through strategic planning
- Deliver quality training programmes with a focus on practical application
- Enhance public sector performance through funded learnerships, bursaries, and internships
Programme Details and Structure
| Programme | Qualification | Duration | Eligibility | Funding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Learnerships | NQF Level 3–6 (e.g., Public Administration, Financial Administration) | 12–18 months | Grade 12 | R2,500–R4,500 monthly stipend |
| Bursaries | Undergraduate (e.g., BAdmin, BCom Public Management) | 1–4 years | Grade 12 + tertiary acceptance | Up to R70,000 for tuition, books, accommodation |
| Internships | NQF Level 6–7 (e.g., Public Management, Human Resources) | 12–24 months | Diploma or degree | R2,500–R4,500 monthly stipend |
| Skills Programmes | Short courses (e.g., Policy Development, Records Management) | 1–6 months | Grade 12 | Partial funding, no stipend |
Each programme combines theoretical learning, hands-on experience, and assessments. All qualifications are nationally recognized and delivered through PSETA-accredited providers, including the National School of Government.
Key Responsibilities by Programme
Learnerships
- Perform administrative and financial support tasks in public service
- Attend classroom sessions and complete workplace assessments
- Follow public sector policies and ethical standards
Bursaries
- Maintain good academic standing and submit progress reports
- Engage actively in public service-related studies and projects
Internships
- Assist with administrative operations, policy rollout, and HR activities
- Support records management, stakeholder relations, and compliance work
- Participate in mentorship and development workshops
Benefits of Joining PSETA Programmes
- Monthly stipends ranging from R2,500 to R4,500 for learnerships and internships
- Bursary funding up to R70,000 covering tuition, books, and accommodation
- Nationally recognized NQF Level 3 to 7 qualifications
- Practical experience boosting employability in the public sector
- Access to accredited training providers and mentorship
Who Is Eligible?
- South African citizen with a valid ID
- Aged between 18 and 35 years for learnerships and bursaries (no age restriction for internships)
- Minimum Grade 12 for learnerships and skills programmes; tertiary acceptance required for bursaries; diploma or degree for internships
- Unemployed or currently employed in the public sector, depending on the programme
- No prior participation in the same PSETA programme
- Must pass a criminal record and background check
Candidate Preferences
Priority is given to:
- Applicants from Employment Equity groups such as Black, Coloured, Indian, women, and persons with disabilities
- Residents of Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, or rural areas
- Candidates committed to completing the programme and contributing positively to the public sector
Essential Skills and Qualities
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Genuine interest in public service and a readiness to learn
- Analytical thinking and attention to detail, especially in learnerships and internships
- Basic computer literacy and administrative competence
- Commitment to ethical conduct and public sector values
Why Choose PSETA Skills Development Programmes?
Joining PSETA’s Skills Development Programmes is a valuable step towards a stable and impactful career in public service. These programmes offer nationally recognized qualifications alongside practical experience and mentorship, all designed to empower you to contribute to South Africa’s government and community development.
How to Apply
Applications close in early 2026, with bursary deadlines typically in March. To apply:
- Prepare these documents:
- CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of your qualifications (Grade 12, diploma/degree, or tertiary acceptance letter)
- Certified proof of residence (issued within the last 6 months)
- Clearly state the programme you’re applying for (e.g., Learnership: Public Administration or Bursary: BAdmin).
- Submit your application by:
- Email: info@pseta.org.za
- Hand delivery: Woodpecker Building, Hillcrest Office Park, 177 Dyer Road, Hillcrest, Pretoria, 0083
- Postal mail: PO Box 11303, Hatfield, 0028
Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 60 to 90 days. If you don’t hear back within 90 days, your application was unsuccessful. There are no application fees.
Contact Information
- Email: info@pseta.org.za
- Phone: +27 12 423 5700
- Physical address: Woodpecker Building, Hillcrest Office Park, 177 Dyer Road, Hillcrest, Pretoria, 0083
- Postal address: PO Box 11303, Hatfield, 0028
- Website: pseta.org.za