Are you looking to boost your career in health, social development, or early childhood development sectors? The Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) offers funded employment and training opportunities that could change your life — and pay you a stipend while you study and gain work experience!
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through:
- What HWSETA is
- Opportunities available
- Application requirements
- Step-by-step application process
- List of popular accredited training providers
- Expected stipend amounts
- Tips to increase your chances of success
What is HWSETA?
The Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) is a government-established organization tasked with developing skills within South Africa’s health, social development, and veterinary sectors.
Its main role is to:
- Fund training initiatives (learnerships, internships, bursaries, and skills programs)
- Accredit training providers
- Promote employment opportunities
- Support transformation and skills development goals of South Africa
Through HWSETA-funded programs, you get theoretical training + practical workplace experience, making you highly employable.
Types of HWSETA Funded Opportunities
HWSETA funds a wide range of opportunities such as:
| Opportunity Type | Example Programs | Duration |
| Learnerships | Social Auxiliary Work, Community Health Work, Animal Health Technician | 12-24 months |
| Internships | Public Health, Child and Youth Care, Disability Care | 12-18 months |
| Skills Programs | Home-Based Care, First Aid, Care for the Elderly | 3-12 months |
| Work Experience Programs | Workplace Exposure for graduates | 6-12 months |
| Bursaries | Health Science Degrees (Nursing, Medicine, Veterinary) | Full-time study |
These programs are free for participants and often come with a monthly stipend.
Who Can Apply?
HWSETA funded programs are targeted at:
- South African citizens (with valid ID)
- Youth aged 18–35 years (main focus, but some programs allow older candidates)
- Unemployed individuals
- Matriculants (some programs require only Grade 10, others Grade 12)
- University or college graduates needing work experience
- People with disabilities (special focus groups)
Specific qualifications and criteria will depend on the program you are applying for.
Documents You’ll Need
Before applying, prepare the following:
- Certified copy of your South African ID (not older than 3 months)
- Certified copies of your highest school qualification (Matric Certificate/Grade 10 report)
- Certified copies of post-school qualifications (if applicable)
- Updated CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill or affidavit)
- Police clearance (some programs)
- Medical certificate (for health sector programs)
- Disability confirmation letter (if applicable)
Tip: Make extra copies and scan digital versions for online applications.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for HWSETA Funded Opportunities
Here’s a foolproof step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Check for Available Opportunities
- Visit the HWSETA official website: www.hwseta.org.za
- Check training providers’ websites (list below)
- Look out for adverts in newspapers, radio, and social media
- Visit Department of Labour offices (they often list funded programs)
Step 2: Choose the Right Program
- Match your education level and interests with the opportunity.
- Check if you meet all eligibility criteria.
Step 3: Prepare and Update Your Application Documents
- Ensure all documents are certified.
- Tailor your CV to highlight any volunteer work or studies relevant to health or social development.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
- Follow instructions exactly (some require email, others online portal or physical delivery).
- Complete application forms neatly.
- Attach all required documents in the correct order.
Step 5: Attend Interviews or Assessments
- If shortlisted, you will be called for interviews and sometimes entrance tests.
Step 6: Receive Offer and Sign the Contract
- If successful, you will sign a learnership or internship agreement.
Important: Once you sign, you will receive a monthly stipend and must commit to completing both training and practical workplace assignments.
Accredited HWSETA Training Providers
Here’s a list of popular HWSETA accredited training providers:
| Training Provider | Location | Website |
| Healthnicon | Pretoria, Parow, Vaal Triangle | www.healthnicon.co.za |
| Netcare Education | Nationwide | www.netcare.co.za/Education |
| Medi Clinic Learning Centre | Cape Town, Gauteng | www.mediclinic.co.za |
| Vaal University of Technology | Vanderbijlpark | www.vut.ac.za |
| False Bay TVET College | Cape Town | www.falsebaycollege.co.za |
| Boston City Campus | Nationwide | www.boston.co.za |
| South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP) | JHB, CT, Durban | www.sacap.edu.za |
| Emcare Training Academy | Nationwide | www.emcare.org.za |
Tip: Always check that the provider is currently accredited for the program you are applying for!
How Much Stipend Will You Get?
While amounts vary based on program and funding available, here’s what you can generally expect:
| Program Type | Average Monthly Stipend |
| Learnerships | R3,500 – R5,500 |
| Internships | R4,000 – R6,500 |
| Skills Programs | R1,500 – R3,000 |
| Work Experience | R2,000 – R4,500 |
Note: Some programs also provide uniforms, learning materials, transport allowances, and meals!
Pro Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Apply early: Don’t wait for closing dates.
- Apply to multiple providers: Increase your options.
- Follow instructions carefully: Incorrect applications get disqualified.
- Prepare for interviews: Know about HWSETA and your chosen career path.
- Stay reachable: Keep your phone on and check your emails daily.
- Network: Attend career expos and community events.
- Keep your documents ready: Opportunities can appear at any time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply if I already have a qualification?
A: Yes! HWSETA funds both entry-level and advanced training, including internships for graduates.
Q: Do I need to pay anything?
A: No. HWSETA opportunities are fully funded, and you actually get paid!
Q: What if I fail or drop out?
A: You might have to repay the stipend, and it could negatively affect your chances for future funded programs.
Q: Can I do more than one HWSETA program?
A: Yes, but you usually cannot be funded for the same type of qualification level twice (e.g., two NQF Level 4 qualifications).
Conclusion: Your Future Starts Here!
The opportunity to study, work, and get paid while improving your career is a golden ticket you shouldn’t miss. HWSETA funded employment and training programs are designed to equip you with skills that South Africa desperately needs — making you highly employable nationally and internationally.
Prepare your documents, stay alert for openings, and take your first step toward a successful, meaningful career in health, social development, or veterinary sectors today!
Ready to Apply?
Keep checking www.hwseta.org.za and training providers’ websites.
Prepare your documents now.
Grab your chance when opportunities open
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