Department of Tourism Culinary Skills Programme 2026/2027: R200/Day, Closes 18 October

The Department of Tourism invites eligible South African youth to apply for the Culinary Skills Programme 2026/2027. The 12-month skills development programme focuses on food and beverage services and professional cookery.

Successful applicants will receive a daily stipend of R200 during the training period. The programme targets unemployed youth with Matric who want to develop practical hospitality skills.

Applications close on 18 October 2026. Interested candidates should prepare the required documents and submit their applications online before the deadline.

Culinary Skills Programme 2026/2027: Programme Overview

The programme aims to improve employment opportunities in South Africa’s hospitality and tourism sectors. Participants will receive skills development opportunities in food and beverage services and professional cookery.

Here are the key details:

• Programme: Culinary Skills Programme 2026/2027
• Department: Department of Tourism
• Training areas: Food and Beverage Services and Professional Cookery
• Duration: 12 months
• Stipend: R200 per day
• Target group: Unemployed youth with Matric
• Age requirement: 18 to 35 years
• Closing date: 18 October 2026
• Application method: Online application

The programme offers an opportunity for eligible candidates to develop skills relevant to the hospitality industry.

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Who Can Apply for the Department of Tourism Culinary Skills Programme?

Applicants must meet the programme’s stated requirements to be considered. Review the criteria carefully before completing the application.

Candidates must:

• Be between 18 and 35 years old.
• Be unemployed.
• Hold a Matric certificate.
• Be fluent in English.
• Have a genuine interest in tourism and hospitality.
• Be willing to work flexible hours.
• Be available to work weekends and public holidays when required.
• Submit all the required supporting documents.

The department encourages people living with disabilities to apply.

However, applicants who previously participated in the Department of Tourism’s learnership or skills programmes will not be considered.

Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection. Shortlisted candidates will undergo an interview to assess their suitability.

What Does the Culinary Skills Programme Offer?

The programme focuses on two areas within the hospitality industry.

1. Food and Beverage Services

Food and beverage services support the daily operations of restaurants, hotels and other hospitality establishments. Training in this field can help participants develop relevant service skills.

These skills may support future opportunities in hospitality and tourism. However, the department’s advert does not specify the exact training modules.

2. Professional Cookery

Professional cookery focuses on skills related to food preparation and kitchen operations. This training area may suit candidates interested in developing their cooking skills.

The programme provides a structured 12-month training period. Participants must be prepared to commit to the full duration.

Stipend: Successful candidates will receive R200 per day. The advert does not specify the payment schedule or the total monthly amount.

Documents Required for the Application

Applicants must submit the supporting documents listed in the official advert. Missing documents may result in an application being excluded from consideration.

Prepare the following:

• Updated CV.
• Certified copy of your South African ID.
• Proof of residence.
• Certified copy of your Matric certificate.

Check that your documents are complete and readable before uploading them. Also, ensure that the information on your CV matches your supporting documents.

The department states that applications missing required documents will not be considered.

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How to Apply for the Culinary Skills Programme 2026/2027

Eligible candidates must complete the online application form before the closing date.

Follow these steps:

1. Review the eligibility requirements and confirm that you qualify.
2. Prepare your CV and all required supporting documents.
3. Visit the official online application form using the link below.
4. Complete the form with accurate personal and educational information.
5. Upload or provide the required supporting documents as instructed.
6. Review your application before submitting it.
7. Submit your application before 18 October 2026.

Apply online: Department of Tourism Culinary Skills Programme Application Form

Applicants should retain a copy of their application details for reference.

Training Duration and Selection Process

The Culinary Skills Programme runs for 12 months. Successful candidates must sign a contract covering the training period.

The department will shortlist applicants who meet the requirements. Shortlisted candidates will then attend an interview to determine their suitability.

Only shortlisted candidates will receive further correspondence. If you have not received a response within two weeks after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.

Therefore, applicants should ensure that their contact details are correct. They should also monitor their email and telephone for possible communication from the department.

Enquiries About the Culinary Skills Programme

Applicants who need further information can contact the Department of Tourism using the details below.

• Telephone: 012 444 6649
• Email: msebiloane@tourism.gov.za
• Closing date: 18 October 2026

Contact the department if you need clarification about the application process or programme requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions