FREE MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Program 2026: Are you an unemployed KZN resident looking for a practical skill that can generate income in weeks? Launch your own business with the FREE MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Programme 2026 in Durban. This is not just a course – it’s a complete small business launch kit, including accredited training, a full repair toolkit, a tablet, business registration support, and three months of mentoring.
If you have Grade 11 with Maths or Maths Lit, this 4-week programme could be your springboard into the booming township economy and mobile device repair industry.
⚠️ Application Deadline: 16 February 2026 – Apply Immediately!
FREE MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Program 2026: Program Snapshot
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Cellphone Repair Training & Business Launch |
| Provider | Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI) |
| Partners | KZN EDTEA, KZN DSD, Human Capital Learning Solutions |
| Duration | 4 Weeks (Monday–Friday) |
| Dates | 23 February – 20 March 2026 |
| Location | 190 K.E. Masinga Road, MKRI Offices, Durban |
| Cost | FREE (Fully funded) |
| Closing Date | 16 February 2026 |
FREE MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Program 2026What You Will Receive – This is HUGE!
- Accredited Technical Training – Industry-recognised skills
- Hands-On Repair Experience – Practical, not just theory
- Cellphone Repair Toolkit – Your starter equipment, FREE
- A Tablet – Included in the programme, FREE
- Business Registration Support – Formalise your venture
- 3 Months Mentoring & Coaching – Ongoing guidance after training
This is more than training. It’s a small business launch opportunity.
FREE MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Program 2026: What You Will Learn
You will gain practical, income-generating skills in:
| Skill Area | What You’ll Master |
|---|---|
| Hardware Diagnostics | Identifying faulty components, motherboard basics |
| Screen & Battery Replacement | Most common and profitable repairs |
| Software Troubleshooting | Flashing, unlocking, boot loops, OS issues |
| Device Maintenance | Cleaning ports, speaker replacement, water damage basics |
| Customer Service Basics | Handling clients, pricing, warranties |
| Small Business Fundamentals | Stock management, marketing, record-keeping |
Cellphone repair is a high-demand service in townships, campuses, taxi ranks, and rural areas. People always need their phones fixed.
FREE MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Program 2026: Are You Eligible?
You must meet ALL of the following criteria:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Residence | KwaZulu-Natal resident (proof required) |
| Education | Grade 11 with 40% Mathematics OR 50% Mathematical Literacy |
| Employment Status | Currently unemployed |
| Citizenship | South African ID holder |
| Priority Groups | Women, Youth, Persons with Disabilities (preference given) |
Applicants must also complete a pre-assessment as part of the selection process.
FREE MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Program 2026: Why This Programme is a Game-Changer
- Zero Cost: Training, toolkit, tablet – all completely free. No hidden fees.
- Immediate Income Potential: Start offering repair services during and immediately after the 4 weeks.
- Complete Launch Package: Most courses give you a certificate. MKRI gives you tools, a device, and business registration.
- Mentorship: 3 months of post-training support – this is where real success is built.
- Township Economy Focus: Designed specifically to empower local entrepreneurs and create sustainable micro-businesses.
- Government-Backed: Delivered in partnership with KZN provincial departments – credible and quality-assured.
FREE MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Program 2026: Career & Business Paths After Completion
| Pathway | Opportunities |
|---|---|
| Entrepreneurship | Start a township repair kiosk, home-based service, or mobile repair van. Run an online repair business via social media. |
| Employment | Work in a cellphone repair shop, electronics store, or device support centre. |
| Advanced Study | Progress to electronics technician certifications, ICT support qualifications, or hardware engineering studies. |
With experience, you can grow into:
- Business owner with multiple staff
- Technical trainer for other youth
- Distributor or supplier of spare parts
Why This Matters in 2026
South Africa has a critical shortage of certified, skilled cellphone repair technicians in townships and rural areas. This programme is a direct intervention to:
- Create jobs through self-employment
- Support the township economy with affordable local services
- Reduce e-waste by extending device lifespans
- Empower youth with a tangible, in-demand skill
This is not just training. This is economic transformation at the grassroots level.
FREE MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Program 2026: How to Apply: Online Only
⚠️ Applications are strictly online via Google Forms. No walk-ins, emails, or phone applications.
Step 1: Access the Official Application Form
APPLY HERE: FREE MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Program 2026
“Do not treat this as just a free course. Treat it as a business opportunity.”
Step 2: Prepare Your Information
Have these ready before you start:
- Your personal details (full name, ID number, contact information).
- Your Grade 11 results – specifically your Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy percentage.
- Proof of KZN residence (municipal account, affidavit, or ward councillor letter).
Step 3: Complete the Form Accurately
- Fill in all required fields.
- Be honest about your qualifications and circumstances.
- Double-check your email address and phone number – this is how they will contact you.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
- Deadline: 16 February 2026.
- Late applications may not be considered.
- Apply immediately – spaces are limited.
ALSO APPLY FOR: Shoprite Money Market Yes Programme 2026
ALSO READ ABOUT: Why Internships are Your Essential Career Launchpad in 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is this REALLY free? No hidden costs?
A: Yes, completely free. The training, toolkit, and tablet are fully funded by the KZN Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs. You pay nothing .
Q2: I have Matric, not Grade 11. Can I apply?
A: Yes. Matric meets and exceeds the Grade 11 requirement. Your Matric certificate is valid .
Q3: I live in Pietermaritzburg / Richards Bay / Newcastle. Can I apply?
A: The training is in Durban. You must be able to attend daily, Monday–Friday, for 4 weeks at the MKRI Offices in Durban. Transport and accommodation are your own responsibility.
Q4: I don’t have any experience with electronics. Is that okay?
A: Yes. This programme is designed for beginners. You will be trained from the basics .
Q5: Do I keep the toolkit and tablet after the training?
A: Yes. The toolkit and tablet are yours to keep, enabling you to start your business immediately after completion .
Q6: Is the training accredited?
A: The programme is delivered by MKRI and Human Capital Learning Solutions, with certification that is recognised in the industry. It is designed to give you practical, employable skills .
Q7: What happens after the 4 weeks?
A: You receive 3 months of mentoring and coaching to help you establish your business, find customers, and overcome challenges
Your Business Starts Here
The MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Programme 2026 is a rare, fully-funded opportunity to gain a high-value technical skill and launch your own business – all in 4 weeks. With a free toolkit, free tablet, business registration support, and ongoing mentorship, this is the most comprehensive youth entrepreneurship programme available in KZN right now.

If you have Grade 11 Maths/Maths Lit and live in KwaZulu-Natal, do not let this opportunity pass you by.
The deadline of 16 February 2026 is just days away. Apply now. Your journey from unemployed youth to business owner starts with this single click.