The FoodBev SETA Apprenticeship Programme 2026 is officially open for applications. This highly anticipated first intake is offered in partnership with the FoodBev SETA and South West Gauteng TVET College under the Centre of Specialisation (CoS) model.
This programme provides unemployed youth with an opportunity to qualify as artisans in high-demand technical trades. It combines structured institutional training with real workplace experience, preparing learners for nationally recognised trade qualifications and long-term career opportunities in South Africa’s manufacturing and engineering sectors.
About the Centre of Specialisation (CoS) Apprenticeship Model
The CoS model strengthens artisan development by aligning TVET college training with industry needs. Learners receive:
- Structured theoretical training at the college
- Practical workshop-based learning
- On-the-job training with industry partners
- Preparation for a national trade test
Upon successful completion, apprentices become qualified artisans, equipped to enter the formal labour market or start their own businesses.
Apprenticeship Opportunities Available
1. Occupational Certificate: Fitter and Turner
Duration: 36 Months
Campus: Molapo Campus
Intake: 25 Learners
What You Will Learn
The Fitter and Turner trade focuses on precision engineering and manufacturing. Apprentices will gain skills in:
- Reading and interpreting engineering drawings
- Measuring and marking off materials accurately
- Operating lathes, milling machines, drilling machines, and grinders
- Manufacturing and assembling mechanical components
- Maintaining and repairing industrial machinery
- Applying workplace safety standards
This trade develops strong technical precision, problem-solving ability, and mechanical expertise.
Career Opportunities
Qualified Fitters and Turners are employed in:
- Manufacturing plants
- Automotive production facilities
- Mining and heavy industry
- Food and beverage processing factories
- Engineering workshops
They can also start small engineering workshops offering machining services, custom metal fabrication, and machine repair solutions.
2. Occupational Certificate: Mechanical Fitter
Duration: 36 Months
Campus: Molapo Campus
Intake: 25 Learners
What You Will Learn
Mechanical Fitters specialise in assembling, installing, maintaining, and repairing industrial machinery. Training includes:
- Installation of mechanical systems and equipment
- Preventative maintenance techniques
- Fault diagnosis and troubleshooting
- Hydraulic and pneumatic systems
- Alignment and balancing of rotating machinery
- Interpretation of mechanical diagrams and schematics
This trade is essential in ensuring that factories and plants operate efficiently with minimal downtime.
Career Opportunities
Mechanical Fitters are in demand in:
- Manufacturing and production plants
- Petrochemical and energy sectors
- Construction and infrastructure projects
- FMCG production facilities
- Food and beverage processing plants
With experience, artisans can establish maintenance service companies that contract with factories and industrial facilities.
3. Occupational Certificate: Electrician
Duration: 36 Months
Campus: Roodepoort West Campus
Intake: 10 Learners
What You Will Learn
The Electrician apprenticeship equips learners with electrical installation and maintenance skills. Training includes:
- Installation of wiring systems
- Electrical fault finding and repairs
- Reading electrical diagrams and circuit plans
- Working with switchgear and control systems
- Industrial electrical maintenance
- Compliance with electrical safety regulations
This qualification enables artisans to work across residential, commercial, and industrial environments.
Career Opportunities
Qualified Electricians can work in:
- Construction companies
- Industrial plants
- Property development projects
- Municipal infrastructure
- Renewable energy installations
Electricians have strong entrepreneurial potential. Many establish businesses offering electrical installation, maintenance, solar system installation, and compliance certification services.
Minimum Requirements
For Fitter and Turner / Mechanical Fitter:
Applicants must have one of the following:
- Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics (Technical subjects are an added advantage)
- NCV Level 2–4 in Fitting and Turning (All 21 subjects completed)
- N2–N6 Mechanical Engineering (including Fitter and Turner Trade Theory)
For Electricians:
Applicants must have one of the following:
- Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics (Technical subjects are an added advantage)
- NCV Level 2–4 in Electrical Infrastructure and Construction (All 21 subjects completed)
- N2–N6 Electrical Engineering
Additional Requirements:
- Applicants must be under 35 years of age
- Preference will be given to students who previously studied at South West Gauteng TVET College
- All candidates will undergo assessment processes
Successful learners will enter into an ETQA agreement and employment contract.
Why This Apprenticeship Matters
South Africa continues to face a shortage of qualified artisans. Trades such as fitting, turning, mechanical maintenance, and electrical installation remain critical to economic growth and industrial development.
This programme provides:
- Recognised artisan qualifications
- Industry-relevant practical skills
- Improved employability
- Opportunities for entrepreneurship
- Long-term earning potential
Artisans are among the most employable professionals in the technical sector, and many go on to supervise teams, manage projects, or establish independent contracting businesses.
Related: AgriSETA Funded Mixed Farming Systems Skills Programme 2026
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- An application letter clearly indicating the programme applied for
- A comprehensive CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Proof of address
- Proof of bank account
Closing Date
All applications must be submitted before 13 March 2026. Late applications will not be considered.
Enquiries
Molapo Campus: 010 141 8090
Roodepoort West Campus: 010 141 3026
Available during working hours (07:30 – 16:00)
The FoodBev SETA Apprenticeship Programme 2026 offers more than just training. It provides a pathway to becoming a qualified artisan in sectors that power South Africa’s economy. Whether you aim to secure stable employment, work in heavy industry, or build your own technical services business, this apprenticeship can be the foundation of a sustainable and rewarding career.
Prospective students who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply before the closing date and take the first step toward becoming a skilled artisan.
