If you’ve been working with your hands for years — fixing electrical faults, welding structures, or building metal components — but you’ve never had the formal certificate to prove your skills, this opportunity is truly for you.
EASTC Technocentric Varsity, in partnership with the FP&M SETA, is opening an exciting Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) programme for highly skilled but uncertified individuals in 2025. Whether you’ve worked in a factory, workshop, or construction site, this programme helps you finally gain official recognition, assessment, and certification for your experience.
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This is one of the most powerful career-boosting opportunities for unemployed artisans — and the best part? There are no age restrictions, and you also receive a R3 000 stipend.
Below is everything you need to know before applying.
Quick Overview
| Opportunity | FP&M SETA & EASTC Technocentric Varsity ARPL Programme 2025 |
| Trades Offered | Electrical (10), Welding (10), Boilermaking (10) |
| Stipend | R3 000 |
| Who Can Apply? | Skilled but unemployed individuals with 3+ years of trade experience |
| Location | Kempton Park |
| Closing Date | Friday, 5 December 2025 |
| Submit Applications | Email: projects@eastc.co.za (Subject: Attention Itumeleng) |
| Physical Submission | 43 Maxwell Street, Kempton Park (Projects Department) |
| SETA Partner | FP&M SETA |
About EASTC Technocentric Varsity
EASTC Technocentric Varsity is a specialised institution focused on skills development, artisan training, and industry-aligned technical programmes. The institution plays a strong role in producing work-ready artisans for South Africa’s manufacturing, construction, and industrial sectors.
Their ARPL initiatives empower individuals who already have hands-on skills to finally gain formal certification and open their path toward becoming recognised artisans.
FP&M SETA Partnership
FP&M SETA (Fibre Processing and Manufacturing Sector Education and Training Authority) supports training across industries such as:
- Manufacturing
- Furniture production
- Forestry
- Textiles
- Printing
- Engineering operations within the sector
Through this partnership, qualified applicants receive funded opportunities, assessment support, and stipends during the ARPL process.
What is ARPL and Why Is It Important?
Many South Africans work for years gaining real technical experience — yet remain unqualified because they never went through a formal apprenticeship.
ARPL (Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning) allows you to:
- Get assessed
- Get recognised
- Get certified
…based solely on your work experience, not classroom learning.
Once certified, you unlock opportunities such as:
- Higher-paying artisan jobs
- Registration with the Department of Employment and Labour
- Possibility to open your own business
- Access to government artisan programmes
- Stronger job security
This programme is designed exactly for people like you — skilled, talented, and ready for the next step.
Trades Offered (30 Total Spaces)
You may apply for one of the following ARPL trades:
Electrical (10 Seats)
For individuals with hands-on experience in:
- Electrical installation
- Fault finding
- Domestic/industrial wiring
- Electrical maintenance
Welding (10 Seats)
For welders experienced in:
- Arc welding
- MIG/TIG welding
- Structural welding
- Fabrication
Boilermaking (10 Seats)
Ideal for applicants skilled in:
- Metal fabrication
- Plate work
- Pipework
- Structural assembly
These trades are in high demand across South Africa — making this an excellent opportunity to formalise your skills.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, you must meet the following:
Must be unemployed
This is a SETA-funded initiative specifically for unemployed individuals.
No Age Restrictions
Whether you are 22 or 62, you may apply.
Updated CV
3+ Years Work Experience (Proof Required)
You must provide:
- A service letter OR
- A reference letter
With an official company stamp.
Certified Documents
- Certified ID copy (recently certified)
- Certified copies of your qualifications
How to Apply
Option 1: Email Submission
Send your application to: projects@eastc.co.za
Subject Line: Attention to Itumeleng
Option 2: Physical Drop-Off
Submit your application at: 43 Maxwell Street, Kempton Park
(Projects Department)
CLOSING DATE: FRIDAY, 5 DECEMBER 2025
Late applications will NOT be considered.
Before you Apply, Check the Edupstairs Youth Tools Hub below that can be helpful in your application
- SA Bursary Probability Checker
- Edupstairs Simple CV Builder Tool
- Edupstairs AI Cover Letter Generator Tool
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- South African Salary Explorer Tool
- TVET College Enrolment Eligibility Checker Tool
- Edupstairs Career Personality Tool
- Daily Career Score Tracker
Edupstairs Advice
- This opportunity is perfect for hands-on workers who never had the chance to study full-time.
- ARPL gives you the certificate that finally matches your skills.
- Applying early increases your chances – only 10 seats per trade!
- Prepare your documents now — late certification and non-stamped letters are the main reasons people are rejected.
- Use this certificate to apply for higher-paying jobs or start your own business.
Career Growth Path After Completing ARPL
Once you receive your trade certification, you can grow into:
- Qualified Artisan
Officially recognised under the Department of Labour.
- Senior Artisan / Technician
Gain promotion opportunities with experience.
- Foreman or Supervisor
Oversee teams of artisans and workshop staff.
- Quality Controller
Ensure compliance and safety on site.
- Assessor or Moderator
Once experienced, you can train and assess new students.
- Start Your Own Workshop
Certified artisans can legally open:
- Electrical installation businesses
- Welding shops
- Metal fabrication workshops
This is a life-changing opportunity for many.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
- What is ARPL?
Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning is a process that certifies your skills based on experience, not formal study.
- Do I need a trade qualification?
No — your work experience serves as your qualification for assessment.
- Is there an age limit?
No. The programme is open to all ages.
- Will I get paid?
Yes, a R3 000 stipend is provided.
- Can I apply if I’m self-taught?
Yes, as long as you can prove your work experience through letters or client records.
- How many positions are available?
30 spots in total across three trades.
- Can I apply for more than one trade?
No. You must choose ONE trade.
- Where will the assessments take place?
Assessments are conducted by EASTC Technocentric Varsity in Kempton Park.
- Is experience in informal jobs acceptable?
Yes — but you must have proof or references.
- When will training start?
Successful applicants will be contacted directly by EASTC after the closing date.
CLOSING DATE: 05 DECEMBER 2025
You can also:
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Disclaimer
Edupstairs does not recruit, process applications, or influence selection outcomes. We simply share verified opportunities to help South African youth access education, training, and employment programmes. Always confirm details on the official provider’s platforms.
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