Are you unemployed and looking for a practical career that pays you while you learn? Mthashana TVET College apprenticeship programmes for 2026 are open now, and the deadline is fast approaching. This is a chance to gain real‑world skills in electrical, plumbing or chef trades without paying any fees.
What the opportunity is
Mthashana TVET College, a public TVET institution under the Department of Higher Education and Training, is offering 83 fully funded apprenticeship places for 2026. The programmes are supported by LGSETA and CATHSSETA and run for 36 months. Successful learners will receive a monthly stipend during training.
Who can apply
To be eligible you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be unemployed and not currently studying
- Never have completed an apprenticeship programme before
- Be ready to commit to the full 36‑month training period
- Be willing to apply for the trade that matches your qualifications
The college especially encourages unemployed youth and persons with disabilities to apply.
Trade‑specific entry requirements
- Electrician (22 places – Nquthu Campus): Grade 12 with Mathematics/Technical Mathematics AND Physical Sciences, **or** an N2 in the electrician trade.
- Plumber (30 places – Nongoma Campus): Grade 12 with passes in English **and** Mathematical Literacy, **or** an N2 in plumbing.
- Chef (31 places – Vryheid Campus): Grade 12 with passes in English **and** Mathematical Literacy.
What you gain
- Structured, on‑the‑job training for 36 months
- No registration, tuition or consumable fees – the programmes are fully funded
- A monthly stipend while you study
- Nationally recognised qualifications in a high‑demand trade
- Improved employability after completion
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the Mthashana TVET College Student Portal.
- Click “Register a new account” and create your profile.
- Select the appropriate year on the right‑hand side.
- Choose the campus that matches your chosen trade:
- Electrician – Nquthu Campus
- Plumber – Nongoma Campus
- Chef – Vryheid Campus
- Find the list titled “Apprenticeship – 36 months” and select your desired programme.
- Complete the online form and upload the required documents (see next section).
- Submit the application and keep the confirmation screen or email for your records.
Documents you need
- Certified copy of your South African ID (recent)
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate **or** N2 certificate in the relevant trade (if you have an N2, upload it together with your Grade 12 certificate)
- Recent proof of residence
Prepare these files beforehand and give them clear names such as “ID‑YourName.pdf”, “Grade12‑YourName.pdf”, “N2‑YourName.pdf”, “Residence‑YourName.pdf”.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that you meet the specific academic requirements before you start the application.
- Make sure all uploaded documents are clear and legible.
- Verify that you have selected the correct campus for your trade.
- Complete the application well before the closing date to avoid portal overload or internet issues.
- Keep a copy of the confirmation reference after you submit; you may need it for future communication.
- Use the contact details below only for genuine enquiries – do not send your CV to the email address.
Next steps and contact information
The application deadline is Friday, 28 August 2026. Submit your application early and keep the confirmation proof.
For any questions, contact the Occupational Programmes Unit at:
- Phone: 034 980 1010
- Email: Info.Skills@mthashana.edu.za
Remember, applications must be submitted online only. Hand‑delivered, faxed or emailed applications will not be considered.
Why this matters
An apprenticeship combines classroom learning with real work experience. It prepares you for a skilled trade that is always in demand in South Africa. Whether you are interested in wiring, plumbing systems or professional cooking, these programmes give you a clear pathway to a stable career.
Conclusion
If you meet the requirements, this is a solid opportunity to start a qualified trade without paying fees. Take the time to gather your documents, follow the steps carefully, and submit before 28 August 2026. Good luck on the road to a new career!
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does the application close? Friday, 28 August 2026.
- How many places are available? 83 in total – 22 electrician, 30 plumber, 31 chef.
- How long is the training? 36 months.
- Is a placement test required? No, a placement test is not needed.
- Will I receive a stipend? Yes, a monthly stipend is paid to eligible participants (amount not disclosed in the advert).
- Are there any tuition or registration fees? No, the programmes are fully funded.
- Can employed people apply? No, you must be unemployed.
- Can current students apply? No, you must not be enrolled at any educational institution.
- Can I re‑apply if I have done an apprenticeship before? No, previous apprenticeship beneficiaries are not eligible.
- Are persons with disabilities encouraged to apply? Yes, the college specifically invites applications from persons with disabilities.
- Can I email my application? No, only the online portal is accepted.
- What documents are required? Certified ID, Grade 12 (or N2) certificate, and proof of residence.
Disclaimer
SETA SA is not Mthashana TVET College, LGSETA or CATHSSETA and does not take part in the selection of applicants. The information above is based on the official apprenticeship advertisement from Mthashana TVET College. Verify all details on the college’s official channels before applying. SETA SA does not guarantee placement in any apprenticeship programme.
Editorial Integrity
SETA SA provides clear explanations of education and training opportunities for South African job seekers. All programme names, locations, numbers of learners, entry requirements, duration, application conditions and closing dates are taken from the official advertisement. Where the exact stipend amount was not disclosed, it has not been estimated.
