How to Apply for W&RSETA Funded Employment and Training Opportunities

Are you passionate about building a career in retail, wholesale, or supply chain industries? The Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) offers fully funded employment and training opportunities for unemployed youth, school leavers, and those already working in the industry but needing further skills. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from how to apply, to who offers the training, and how much stipend you can expect.

What is W&RSETA and Why Does it Matter?

The Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) is one of South Africa’s 21 SETAs. It plays a crucial role in developing skills and increasing employment within the wholesale and retail sectors. The aim is to:

Upskill unemployed youth
Help matriculants access the retail job market
Assist companies with skills development
Create sustainable job opportunities

Each year, W&RSETA funds Learnerships, Internships, Skills Programmes, and Bursaries—all with the goal of creating employable, skilled individuals who are ready for the workforce.

Who Can Apply for W&RSETA Opportunities?

W&RSETA programmes are targeted primarily at:

Unemployed youth between the ages of 18–35
Matriculants who are not studying or working
TVET and university graduates seeking work experience
People living with disabilities
Employed individuals looking to upgrade their skills (via employed learnerships)

Minimum Requirements:

South African citizenship
Matric/Grade 12 certificate for most learnerships
Post-school qualifications for internships
Commitment to complete the programme

Types of Funded Programmes Offered by W&RSETA

Learnerships (NQF Level 2–5)
These combine theoretical learning with on-the-job training. Duration: 12 months.
Examples:
- Wholesale and Retail Operations
- Retail Supervision
- Merchandising
- Customer Management
Internships
Targeted at graduates who need work experience in retail management, logistics, supply chain, and HR.
Skills Programmes
Short-term training modules aimed at addressing specific skills gaps in cash handling, point of sale, or stock control.
Bursaries
Funding for studies in retail-related qualifications at universities and TVET colleges.

The Application Process Step-by-Step

Step 1: Find a Training Provider

Visit the W&RSETA website or their provincial offices.
Look for approved and accredited training providers.

Step 2: Check for Advertised Opportunities

Monitor platforms such as:
- www.edupstairs.org
- www.wrseta.org.za
- SAYouth.mobi
- Department of Labour
- Local newspapers and municipal job boards
- Career portals like Indeed, CareerJunction, and JobMail

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Typical documents required:

Certified copy of ID
Certified Matric certificate
Updated CV
Proof of residence
Bank account confirmation letter
Medical proof (if disabled)

Step 4: Submit the Application

Applications can be submitted to the training provider, host employer, or online.
Some programmes may require interviews or assessments.

Step 5: Wait for Shortlisting

If shortlisted, you’ll be contacted for orientation and further documentation.

List of Accredited Training Providers (2025)

Here are some of the top W&RSETA-accredited providers:

Retail Relate
- Website: www.retailrelate.co.za
- Specializes in retail operations and supervision learnerships.
NCR TVET Academy
- Offers learnerships and internships in store operations and customer service.
Redefined Skills Training
- NQF-aligned learnerships in retail and supply chain fields.
Optimum Learning Technologies
- Offers blended learning solutions for large retailers.
Trade Call Investments (TCI) Apparels
- Provides retail production and merchandising training.

Always confirm that the provider is still accredited with W&RSETA before applying.

How Much is the Stipend?

Stipends vary by programme type, but here’s an estimate based on current industry standards:

Programme Type	Monthly Stipend (ZAR)
Learnership	R3,500 – R4,500
Internship	R4,000 – R5,500
Skills Programme	R1,500 – R2,500
Bursary	Full tuition + Allowance

Note: Stipends are funded by W&RSETA and paid either by the employer or the training provider, usually monthly.

Where to Apply – Key Platforms and Partners

You can find opportunities on these trusted platforms:

Edupstairs Website: www.edupstairs.org
W&RSETA Official Website: www.wrseta.org.za
SAYouth.mobi: Free zero-rated youth portal
NSFAS (for bursaries): www.nsfas.org.za
Department of Employment and Labour Centres
Municipality Youth Desks

Also, check directly with retail chains like:

Pick n Pay
Shoprite Group
Woolworths
Clicks
Mr Price Group

These companies often partner with W&RSETA to offer workplace training.

Benefits of W&RSETA Programmes

Work Experience: Gain hands-on training in the retail industry.
Qualification: Receive a nationally recognised NQF certificate.
Job Placement: Many participants are absorbed by their host companies.
Stipend: Get paid while you learn.
Career Advancement: Pathway to roles such as cashier, store supervisor, merchandiser, or buyer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

Submitting incomplete documents
Applying after the deadline
Ignoring official websites and falling for scams
Applying to non-accredited providers
Not preparing for interviews or assessments

Tip: Always confirm the legitimacy of the opportunity by contacting W&RSETA directly or visiting their offices.

Start Your Retail Career the Right Way

W&RSETA-funded employment and training opportunities are more than just skills programmes—they are gateways to long-term careers in one of South Africa’s largest employment sectors. With thousands of funded slots each year, your chance to join the industry starts with a simple, well-prepared application.

Don’t wait for opportunity—create it! Begin your journey today by checking for available W&RSETA programmes and apply through accredited channels. Empower your future, gain skills, and earn while you learn.

EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE