How to Apply for Services SETA Funded Employment and Training Opportunities

Are you looking for a way to build your skills, secure employment, and earn while you learn? The Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA) offers a golden opportunity for South African youth and unemployed adults to gain access to fully funded learnerships, internships, skills programmes, and bursaries. These programmes are specifically designed to bridge the gap between education and employment.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the Services SETA Funded Employment and Training Opportunities—including what they are, how they work, the application process, accredited training providers, and how much you can expect to earn during training.

What is Services SETA?

The Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA) is one of 21 SETAs established in South Africa to promote skills development. Services SETA focuses on the services sector, which includes:

Business and administrative services
Cleaning and hygiene
Hairdressing and beauty
Funeral services
Real estate
Postal and courier services
Call centres and customer care
Marketing and advertising

Services SETA is mandated to facilitate learning programmes that are aligned with the National Skills Development Strategy (NSDS), including Learnerships, Internships, Skills Programmes, Bursaries, and Artisan Development.

Types of Opportunities Offered

Learnerships

A learnership is a structured programme that combines theoretical training with practical work experience. Learnerships lead to a registered qualification on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

Popular Learnerships under Services SETA:

Business Administration NQF Level 4
Contact Centre Support NQF Level 2
New Venture Creation NQF Level 2 & 4
Hairdressing NQF Level 2 – 4

Internships

For graduates, internships provide hands-on workplace experience that prepares them for the job market.

Skills Programmes

Shorter in duration, these focus on specific skills like:

Customer service
Office administration
Reception duties
Sales techniques

Bursaries

Bursaries are offered to those pursuing formal studies in Services SETA-aligned sectors. They cover tuition, books, and sometimes accommodation.

Who Can Apply?

Services SETA opportunities are aimed at:

Unemployed South African youth (aged 18–35)
Matriculants who want to gain workplace skills
Graduates seeking experience in their field
Individuals with disabilities
Previously disadvantaged groups including women, people living in rural areas, and unemployed adults

Basic Requirements:

South African ID
Updated CV
Matric certificate or highest qualification
Proof of residence
Motivation letter (sometimes required)

Application Process – Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Visit the Services SETA Website

Go to www.serviceseta.org.za and navigate to the “Learners” or “Opportunities” section.

Step 2: Look for Open Opportunities

Check for open applications for learnerships, internships, or bursaries. These are often advertised in collaboration with training providers or host employers.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Ensure you have certified copies (within 3 months) of:

ID
Matric certificate
Any post-school qualifications
Updated CV
Proof of address
Disability certificate (if applicable)

Step 4: Apply Through the Training Provider or Employer

Most applications are handled by training providers or host employers. Follow the instructions—some require physical submissions, while others use email or online platforms.

Step 5: Attend Interviews or Assessments

Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview or aptitude test.

Accredited Training Providers

Services SETA only partners with accredited training providers that meet the required quality standards. These providers deliver theoretical training and may help secure workplace placements.

Examples of Accredited Training Providers:

Oxbridge Academy
INTEC College
Boston City Campus
Richfield Graduate Institute
Letaba TVET College
Taal-Net Training Institute
False Bay TVET College
Dynamix Academy
Talent 360 Academy
Richfield Human Resource and Training Institute

You can verify accreditation on the SAQA or Services SETA website.

Understanding the Stipend

One of the great benefits of Services SETA programmes is that you get paid to learn.

Stipend Details:

Learnerships: Typically range from R2,500 to R4,000 per month
Internships: Can range from R3,000 to R7,000 depending on your qualification
Skills Programmes: Sometimes include a small stipend, though not always
Bursaries: Cover study expenses, and in some cases, include a living allowance

Stipends are meant to cover transport, meals, and basic living expenses while you’re enrolled in training.

Success Tips for Applicants

Apply early – Most opportunities are open for a short time.
Tailor your CV – Match your CV to the opportunity you’re applying for.
Check your email regularly – Most communication happens via email or SMS.
Follow up – Call the training provider or host company if you haven’t heard back.
Be honest – Only submit true, accurate information and certified copies.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Challenge 1: “I don’t hear back after applying.”

Tip: Use a professional email address, and check spam folders.

Challenge 2: “I don’t have access to a scanner.”

Tip: Use a scanning app like Adobe Scan or CamScanner with your smartphone.

Challenge 3: “I live in a rural area with few opportunities.”

Tip: Apply to multiple providers across provinces. Many offer online applications.

Challenge 4: “I didn’t finish matric.”

Tip: Apply for skills programmes or contact Services SETA about bridging programmes.

Your Future Starts Now

South Africa’s future depends on a skilled and empowered workforce. The Services SETA is committed to bridging the gap between unemployment and opportunity—but it’s up to you to take the first step.

Whether you’re fresh out of school or looking to change your life’s direction, funded training and employment programmes are a powerful tool for transformation. With stipends, accredited qualifications, and real-world experience, there’s no better time to invest in your future.

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