merSETA learnerships combine paid workplace training with nationally recognised qualifications, offering unemployed youth a realistic entry into technical and manufacturing careers.
Youth unemployment in South Africa is not just a statistic — it’s a daily reality. Many young people finish school eager to work, only to be told they lack experience, skills, or formal qualifications. That frustration is where merSETA learnerships quietly make a difference.
These learnerships are not shortcuts or handouts. They are structured programmes that combine real workplace experience with recognised qualifications, giving unemployed people a genuine chance to enter technical and manufacturing careers.
What Is a merSETA Learnership — and Why It Matters
A merSETA learnership is a structured learning programme that combines theory and practical workplace training, leading to a nationally recognised qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Unlike short courses, learnerships are outcomes-based, not time-based. This means progress depends on competence, not just attendance. Most learnerships last around 18 months, though duration may vary.
For those aiming to become artisans, it’s important to understand that an artisan-equivalent qualification requires four learnerships, progressing from NQF Level 1 to Level 4. It’s a longer journey — but one that leads to credible, employable skills.
Who Can Apply for merSETA Learnerships
merSETA learnerships are open to both employed and unemployed individuals. For unemployed youth, this is often the first structured entry into the labour market.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Meet the entry requirements of the specific qualification
- Satisfy the selection criteria of the employer offering the learnership
- Be willing to commit to both classroom learning and workplace training
Many opportunities are advertised through company websites, social media, newspapers, and the Employment Services of South Africa (ESSA) platform. Registering on ESSA is free and increases visibility to potential employers.
How the Learnership Process Works in Practice
The process begins long before a learner enters the workplace. Employers must be workplace-approved, and training providers must be accredited by the merSETA ETQA.
Once a learner is selected:
- A tripartite agreement is signed between the learner, employer, and training provider
- Unemployed learners receive a short-term employment contract
- The learning programme is agreed upon and implemented
- Learners receive mentoring, feedback, and workplace exposure
Assessment is done by qualified assessors, with internal moderation by the provider and final quality assurance by merSETA. This ensures the qualification has national credibility.
Do Learners Get Paid During a merSETA Learnership?
Yes — but payment depends on employment status.
Unemployed learners receive a monthly allowance, regulated by minimum standards. While it may not replace a full salary, it helps cover basic living costs during training.
Employed learners continue earning their existing salary while completing the learnership.
From the employer’s side, merSETA offers discretionary grants, and businesses may also claim tax rebates from SARS, making learnerships financially viable to offer.
Apply Now : merSETA Official Website
Closing Date 2026 December
What You Receive at the End of the Learnership
On successful completion, learners are awarded a national qualification aligned with their NQF level.
If a learner completes some unit standards but not the full learnership, they still receive a statement of results, which can be used toward future qualifications.
Completion does not guarantee a job — but it significantly improves employability. Employers may:
- Offer permanent employment
- Enrol the learner in a higher-level learnership
- Release the learner with experience and certification for the broader job market
The Reality: Opportunities, Not Promises
merSETA learnerships are not a guarantee of instant employment. They require discipline, attendance, assessments, and patience. Some learners struggle balancing transport costs, family responsibilities, and academic pressure.
However, for many unemployed youth, a learnership is the first real step from exclusion to participation in the economy — with skills that employers actually recognise.
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Frequently Asked Questions About merSETA Learnerships
How long does a merSETA learnership take?
Most take around 18 months, depending on the qualification.
Do I need to pay to join a learnership?
No. Learnerships are funded through employers and merSETA grants
Can I apply if I have no work experience?
Yes. Many learnerships are designed specifically for first-time entrants.
Will I definitely get a job after completing it?
There is no guarantee, but your chances improve significantly.
How do unemployed people apply?
Register on ESSA, monitor company adverts, and apply directly when opportunities are advertised.
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Final Note
merSETA learnerships are not about quick wins. They are about building skills, confidence, and pathways in sectors that still need trained hands. For unemployed youth willing to commit, they remain one of South Africa’s most practical development tools.`
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