How to Apply for CHIETA Funded Employment and Training Opportunities

The Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) is one of South Africa’s 21 SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities). It was established under the Skills Development Act to facilitate skills development within the chemical industries sector — which includes everything from petroleum and pharmaceuticals to fast-moving consumer goods and chemical manufacturing.

Each year, CHIETA funds a range of employment and training opportunities such as:

Learnerships
Internships
Apprenticeships
Skills programmes
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) for graduates

These programmes aim to improve youth employability, create career paths, and boost South Africa’s economy by equipping individuals with relevant, accredited skills.

Types of CHIETA Funded Opportunities Explained

Here’s a breakdown of the main opportunities you can apply for:

Learnerships

A structured learning process combining theory and practice, resulting in a full qualification on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

Internships

Workplace experience programmes for graduates who need to gain hands-on experience in their field of study.

Apprenticeships

Trade-oriented programmes where you gain practical training towards becoming a qualified artisan, such as a fitter, welder, or process operator.

Skills Programmes

Short courses focused on building specific competencies in high-demand areas.

Each opportunity offers a monthly stipend to help cover transport, food, and basic living expenses — often aligned with or above the AgriSETA stipend benchmark of R3,500 – R4,500 per month.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Requirements)

You may qualify to apply if you meet the following:

South African citizen
Aged between 18–35 years
Completed Matric (Grade 12) for most programmes
For internships: Completed a relevant Diploma, Degree, or Certificate
Currently unemployed
No criminal record
Committed to completing the full duration of the programme (typically 12–24 months)

Special focus is often given to:

Youth from rural or disadvantaged backgrounds
People living with disabilities
Previously disadvantaged individuals (PDIs)

How to Find CHIETA Opportunities

To find available opportunities:

CHIETA Official Website

Visit www.chieta.org.za regularly. They post learnerships, internships, and funding opportunities on their careers or tenders page.

Training Providers

Many accredited private and public training providers deliver CHIETA programmes. (A list is included later.)

Company Websites

Big chemical companies like Sasol, AECI, BASF, Omnia, and Afrox often advertise CHIETA learnerships on their career pages.

Social Media and Job Boards

Follow CHIETA, training providers, and companies on LinkedIn, Facebook, and platforms like edupstairs and Indeed

Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s a typical application process for a CHIETA funded opportunity:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Have the following ready:

Certified ID copy
Certified Matric Certificate
Certified tertiary qualifications (if applicable)
Updated CV
Proof of residence
Medical proof if applying under disability status

(Certification must be within the last 3 months.)

Step 2: Search for Opportunities

Look for open advertisements with clear application instructions.

Step 3: Apply

Submit your application via:

Email
Online portals
Physical submission (for some training providers)

Important: Use the correct subject line as per advert instructions.

Step 4: Attend Assessments/Interviews

If shortlisted, you may be invited to complete:

Aptitude tests
Psychometric tests
Interviews

Step 5: Placement

If successful, you will receive an offer letter and be placed either at a company or a training centre.

List of Accredited CHIETA Training Providers

Here are some popular accredited training providers who offer CHIETA-funded opportunities:

Training Provider	Specialisation	Location
Optimum Learning Technologies	Chemical Operations Learnerships	Gauteng
Ekurhuleni Artisans and Skills Training Centre	Engineering and Artisan Skills	Gauteng
Resolution Circle	Internships, Work-Readiness Programmes	Johannesburg
Majuba TVET College	Chemical Process Learnerships	Newcastle, KZN
Omnia Academy	Explosives and Chemical Learnerships	Gauteng
CTC College (Mining and Chemicals)	Artisan Development	Mpumalanga

Tip: Always verify that the provider is CHIETA-accredited before registering.

How Much Is the Stipend?

CHIETA-funded programme stipends vary depending on the programme and level. Here’s an estimated range:

Programme Type	Estimated Stipend (Monthly)
Learnership	R3,500 – R5,500
Internship	R4,500 – R6,500
Apprenticeship	R5,000 – R7,000
Skills Programme	R2,000 – R3,500

Comparison:
AgriSETA typically pays stipends ranging between R3,500 and R4,500, similar to CHIETA stipends for learnerships.

Note: Some companies (like Sasol) top up CHIETA stipends with additional travel or food allowances.

Tips for a Successful Application

Apply Early: Applications close quickly once posts are filled.
Neat CV and Motivation: Craft a professional, error-free CV. Include a short, compelling cover letter.
Follow Instructions: Submit all required documents and use correct subject lines.
Be Contactable: Always answer calls and check your emails during the application process.
Prepare for Assessments: Practice basic numeracy and literacy tests if required.
Stay Positive: Many applicants apply, but persistence pays off!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I apply for more than one opportunity?
Yes. Apply for as many as you qualify for.

Q2: What if I have a disability?
CHIETA encourages applicants with disabilities. Include your medical proof for special consideration.

Q3: Is there an application fee?
No! CHIETA applications are completely FREE. Beware of scammers asking for money.

Q4: Can I work while on a learnership?
Usually not. Learnerships are full-time commitments.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

CHIETA-funded employment and training opportunities offer one of the best stepping stones for young South Africans aiming to enter the chemical and manufacturing industries.
By securing a CHIETA-funded learnership, internship, or apprenticeship, you not only earn a valuable stipend but also gain critical workplace skills that can launch your career.

Prepare your documents early.
Apply widely and professionally.
Seize the opportunity to better your future.

For more opportunities and updates, always visit the CHIETA website, and stay connected with trusted training providers.

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