Mpumalanga Wood & Furniture NQF Level 2 Skills – Apply by 27 Aug 2026

Young people in Mpumalanga who want to start a career in furniture making have a time‑sensitive chance to learn hands‑on skills – the deadline is only 27 August 2026 at 12:00. This training is being run by the Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism together with the Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality and the training provider FURNTECH.

What the opportunity is

The programme is a 14‑week, full‑time Wood Machining and Cabinet Making course at NQF Level 2. It is designed to give you practical experience in the furniture‑manufacturing sector, with roughly 70 % practical work and 30 % theory. After successful completion you will have a recognised NQF‑Level 2 qualification.

Who can apply (eligibility)

• South African citizen
• Resident of Empuluzi or surrounding areas
• Minimum Grade 10 pass **with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy** (Matric is not required)
• Physically fit to handle workshop tools
• Positive attitude and willingness to build a career or business in woodworking
• Recent certified copy of ID (not older than 3 months)
• Current CV
• Copies of all relevant certificates, including school‑leaving certificate
• Proof of address

What you gain (benefits and skills)

• Formal NQF Level 2 qualification in Wood Machining and Cabinet Making
• Hands‑on experience with industry‑standard machinery and tools
• Understanding of furniture design, production and assembly processes
• Preparation for employment in workshops, furniture factories or for starting your own business
• Participation in a two‑day Business Bootcamp that covers entrepreneurship basics
• Networking with local industry players and potential employers

How to apply – step‑by‑step

1. Gather documents: certified ID copy, CV, qualifications, school‑leaving certificate and proof of address.
2. Check file names (if applying by email):
   • Name‑Surname‑CV.pdf
   • Name‑Surname‑ID.pdf
   • Name‑Surname‑Qualifications.pdf
   • Name‑Surname‑Proof‑of‑Address.pdf
3. Email application: send the complete set of attachments to the three addresses below (any one is sufficient). Use a clear subject such as “Wood and Furniture Manufacturing Skills Development Application”.
   maryz@furntech.org.za
   wendyz@furntech.org.za
   mpmokoena@mpg.gov.za
4. Physical application: deliver the same set of documents to:
   Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality
   Empuluzi Unit Office
   Mpuluzi 2335
5. Submit before the deadline: 27 August 2026, 12:00 noon. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Tips to improve your chances

• Double‑check that every document is clear, legible and certified where required.
• Make sure your ID copy is not older than three months.
• Highlight any relevant practical experience (even informal) in your CV.
• Explain honestly why you want to work in woodworking and how you plan to use the skills after training.
• Submit early – avoid a last‑minute rush that could cause technical glitches.
• Keep a copy of everything you send, and note the date and time of submission.

Next steps and encouragement

If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to a two‑day Business Bootcamp. Treat it as a key part of the selection process and be ready to discuss your motivation and future plans. Remember, the programme is competitive – only 30 candidates will be selected for the technical training at FURNTECH White River.

Take action now: gather your documents, apply before the deadline, and give yourself a solid foothold in the furniture‑manufacturing industry.

Contact details

• Phone: 013 750 3066 or 082 069 1046
• Email: see the three addresses listed above

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When does the application close? 27 August 2026 at 12:00 noon.
2. Do I need Matric? No. A Grade 10 pass with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is sufficient.
3. Where must I live? In Empuluzi or the surrounding area.
4. How long is the training? 14 weeks, full‑time.
5. How many trainees will be selected? 30 candidates will receive technical training.
6. Is there a stipend? The advertisement does not mention a stipend. Contact the organisers for clarification.
7. Where is the training held? At FURNTECH, White River.
8. Is the programme mostly practical? Yes – about 70 % practical work.
9. What happens after shortlisting? Shortlisted applicants attend a two‑day Business Bootcamp, after which the final 30 are selected.
10. Can I apply in person? Yes, at the Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality office (address above).
11. Can I apply by email? Yes – use any of the three email addresses listed.
12. Does applying guarantee a place? No. Submission does not guarantee selection.

Good luck, and take the first step towards a skilled future in wood and furniture manufacturing!