The eThekwini Municipality has once again demonstrated its commitment to empowering South Africa’s youth through skills development by announcing the Artisan Development Programme for 2026. This opportunity is designed for unemployed young people who aspire to become qualified artisans across various technical fields. The programme provides both theoretical and practical training, leading to a formal trade test qualification upon completion.
About the Programme
The eThekwini Municipality is offering training opportunities to individuals with a strong interest in pursuing careers in the technical and engineering trades. Successful applicants will enter a structured apprenticeship that combines hands-on practical experience at municipal facilities and academic learning at accredited training institutions. The programme duration aligns with the specific requirements of each trade but will not exceed three years.
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The initiative aims to develop highly skilled artisans who can contribute to the city’s infrastructure development and maintenance. Upon completion, learners will undergo a formal trade test under the supervision of the National Artisan Moderating Body (NAMB) and the relevant Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA).
Available Trade Programmes
The Artisan Development Programme offers apprenticeship opportunities in the following disciplines:
- Boilermaker and Welder
- Mechanical Fitter
- Air-conditioning and Refrigeration
- Millwright and Carpentry
- Diesel Mechanic
These trades are critical to the municipality’s operations and form the backbone of its infrastructure and service delivery functions.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the programme:
- Possess a minimum N2 certificate including the relevant trade theory subject; or
- Hold a Technical/Grade 12 certificate with Mathematics, Physical Science/Engineering Science, and related trade theory subjects; or
- Have a relevant N6 certificate or National Technical Diploma (S or N stream) directly related to the trade applied for.
- Must be a resident of eThekwini Municipality (proof of residence required).
- Must be a South African citizen with a valid identity document (ID).
- Must be unemployed at the time of application.
- Show a genuine passion and interest in the chosen field.
- Be between the ages of 18 and 35 years.
- Must not have participated in a similar apprenticeship or artisan training programme before.
Candidates will undergo pre-assessments, including written, verbal, and medical evaluations, as part of the selection process.
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Training and Development
During the programme, apprentices will engage in both practical on-site training and theoretical instruction at an accredited institution. The eThekwini Municipality, in partnership with the applicable SETA, ensures that participants receive comprehensive exposure to real-world work environments. This combination of practical and classroom-based learning equips learners with the knowledge and experience needed to excel as qualified artisans.
Why Apply?
This initiative provides unemployed youth with the opportunity to gain industry-recognised qualifications while contributing to the development of their communities. Beyond technical skills, participants will acquire essential professional competencies such as teamwork, safety awareness, and problem-solving — all vital for future employment and career growth.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit applications accompanied by:
- Certified copies of qualifications, ID, and proof of residence.
- A comprehensive CV clearly indicating the trade of interest.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments.
APPLY FOR THE BOILERMAKER AND WELDER ARTISAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME HERE
APPLY FOR THE MECHANICAL FITTER ARTISAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME HERE
APPLY FOR THE AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION ARTISAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME HERE
APPLY FOR THE MILLWRIGHT & CARPENTRY ARTISAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME HERE
APPLY FOR THE DIESEL MECHANIC ARTISAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME HERE
This is a life-changing opportunity for eThekwini’s young residents to gain valuable artisan skills, achieve national certification, and open doors to sustainable employment in South Africa’s growing technical industries.
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CLOSING DATE: 14 NOVEMBER 2025
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