In the heart of Gauteng, a dynamic initiative is unlocking the potential of South Africa’s youth — the Cellphone Repair Learnership Programme driven by the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) E-Skills CoLab, in proud collaboration with NEMISA, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), and HCLS. This impactful programme empowers unemployed youth with technical, entrepreneurial, and digital skills that meet the demands of the modern digital economy — particularly in mobile technology.
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF TECHNICIANS
The Cellphone Repair Learnership Programme is designed to create employment opportunities by equipping participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the repair and maintenance of smartphones. In a country where mobile devices are central to communication and commerce, the ability to repair and maintain phones is not only a valuable technical trade but also a viable path to self-employment and entrepreneurship.
Through this programme, learners receive both theoretical and hands-on training in areas such as:
- Diagnosing and troubleshooting common cellphone issues
- Replacing hardware components (screens, batteries, charging ports)
- Software installation and mobile operating system troubleshooting
- Basic electronics and soldering techniques
- Business and customer service skills
By integrating practical workshops and real-world simulations, the programme ensures that graduates are ready to either enter the job market or start their own repair businesses with confidence.
STRATEGIC COLLABORATION FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
This learnership is a perfect example of collaborative impact. Each partner brings its strength to the table:
- VUT E-Skills CoLab facilitates training and innovation-driven digital skills development.
- NEMISA (National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa) supports digital capacity building across communities.
- DCDT provides strategic oversight and ensures alignment with the country’s digital transformation agenda.
- NYDA ensures that youth development remains a core focus, offering both funding and mentorship support.
- HCLS, as an implementation partner, provides technical training expertise, industry connections, and access to repair technologies.
Together, they are transforming the cellphone repair industry into a gateway of opportunity for the youth — especially in townships and underserved communities.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
This learnership is targeted at unemployed youth aged 18–35, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds:
- Soweto Residents
- A minimum qualification of Grade 12 with Maths 40% and Maths Lit 50%
- A strong interest in electronics, mobile devices, or entrepreneurship
- Basic computer literacy
- Unemployed South African citizen and a valid ID
- Deemed Competent in the Pre-Assessment
No prior experience is required, making this an ideal entry-level opportunity for passionate and eager individuals looking to build a technical career.
YOU WILL RECEIVE:
- A tablet
- Cellphone repair toolkit
- Business registration
- 3 months mentorship
BENEFITS:
Upon completion, learners can pursue careers as:
- Cellphone repair technicians
- Technical support staff
- Self-employed mobile repair entrepreneurs
- Assistants in retail tech repair shops
HOW TO APPLY:
Applicants should prepare a certified copy of their ID, highest qualification, and a brief motivation letter.
To apply, use this form: https://forms.gle/XoNo8MBcy3HZ4LZF9
DOWNLOAD THE CELLPHONE REPAIR LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME ADVERT HERE
The Vaal University of Technology’s E-Skills CoLab Cellphone Repair Learnership is more than just a technical training opportunity — it is a beacon of hope in the fight against youth unemployment. Through strategic collaboration and skill development, this programme is repairing more than just phones — it is fixing futures.
CLOSING DATE: 27 JUNE 2025
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

