Unemployed youth who want a career in cooking, hospitality and catering have a time‑sensitive chance to apply for a fully‑funded chef training programme offered by the Royal Bafokeng Institute.
What the opportunity is
The Royal Bafokeng Institute (RBI) is recruiting candidates for a three‑year, QCTO‑accredited Occupational Certificate: Chef. The programme blends classroom theory, hands‑on kitchen practice and workplace learning in hotels, restaurants and catering (HORECA) establishments.
Who can apply – eligibility requirements
- Unemployed South African youth
- Grade 12 (Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy) – a certified copy of the results is required
- Valid South African ID (copy not older than three months)
- Certified copies of both parents’ IDs
- Recommendation letter from your local Kgosana or Kgotla
- Either a recent payslip of a working parent or an affidavit confirming parent unemployment (with certified ID copies)
- Motivation letter explaining why you want to become a chef
- Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply (proof of disability required)
What you gain – benefits and skills
- Fully funded tuition and a paid allowance (exact amount not disclosed on the poster)
- Nationally recognised NQF Level 5 qualification
- Practical kitchen experience and workplace exposure
- Training for roles such as Chef, Sous‑Chef and Kitchen Supervisor
- Opportunities for further employment in the hospitality sector after graduation
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Obtain the application form
Download the form labelled Student-Loan-Form-2027-PDF.docx.pdf from the RBI website or collect a hard copy at the RBI campus in Phokeng.
Royal Bafokeng Institute official website - Complete the form
Fill in every required field accurately. Do not leave any mandatory section blank. - Gather supporting documents
- Certified final Grade 12 results
- Certified copy of your ID (≤ 3 months old)
- Certified copies of both parents’ IDs
- Kgosana/Kgotla recommendation letter
- Parent’s recent payslip or unemployment affidavit (with IDs)
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
- Motivation letter
All copies must be clear and certified.
- Submit the application
Deliver the completed form and all documents to the RBI campus in Phokeng, following the instructions on the form.
Application window: 2 September 2026 – 23 September 2026. The closing date is firm; do not wait until the last day to start collecting paperwork.
Tips to improve your chances
- Start gathering documents early – the Kgosana/Kgotla letter and parent affidavits can take time.
- Practice basic numerical and logical reasoning to prepare for the psychometric test.
- Write a personal motivation letter; avoid generic templates.
- Double‑check that every copy is certified and legible before submitting.
- Keep your phone number active – shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a psychometric test and interview.
- Be aware that shortlisted applicants will undergo compulsory drug and toxicology testing, which will continue throughout the programme.
Next steps
If you meet the eligibility criteria, begin by downloading the application form today. Follow the steps above, and remember that the programme is a three‑year commitment that will equip you with professional culinary skills and a recognised qualification.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the RBI Chef Programme?
A three‑year, fully funded training pathway leading to the QCTO Occupational Certificate: Chef. - When does the application close?
23 September 2026. - Is the programme free?
Yes – tuition is fully funded and a stipend is paid, though the exact amount is not disclosed. - Do I need Mathematics?
Grade 12 with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is required. - Is prior chef experience needed?
No prior professional experience is listed as a requirement. - Can persons with disabilities apply?
Yes, they are strongly encouraged to apply and must provide proof of disability. - Will there be an interview?
Shortlisted candidates will attend an interview and sit a psychometric test. - What if I am not contacted after the deadline?
If you hear nothing within three weeks after 23 September 2026, your application was not successful.
