Are you unemployed and looking to gain practical skills that can improve your chances of finding work or starting your own business? Applications for the NSF-funded Skills Training Programmes 2026 at Mthashana TVET College are now officially open.
As part of Youth Month, eligible South Africans have the opportunity to apply for fully funded skills programmes in Food Preparation and Entrepreneurship, with successful participants receiving monthly stipends throughout the three-month training period.
If you’re ready to invest in your future, be sure to submit your online application before Friday, 19 June 2026.
What Are the NSF-funded Skills Training Programmes?
The NSF-funded Skills Training Programmes are designed to address South Africa’s skills shortage by providing unemployed individuals with practical, industry-relevant training that enhances employability and promotes self-employment.
These programmes are funded by the National Skills Fund (NSF), meaning eligible learners will not have to pay registration or tuition fees.
Participants will also receive a monthly stipend while completing the programme.
Benefits of the NSF-funded Skills Training Programmes
Successful applicants will enjoy several benefits, including:
- Fully funded training
- No registration or tuition fees
- Monthly stipend for the duration of the programme
- Practical skills that improve employability
- Opportunities to become self-employed or start a small business
- Training from one of South Africa’s leading TVET colleges
Available NSF-funded Skills Training Programmes
Food Preparation Programme
The Food Preparation programme equips learners with practical catering and cooking skills suitable for employment in restaurants, catering companies, hotels, or for starting a food business.
Training Sites
- Babanango Skills Centre (Babanango)
- Mashiyinduku Skills Centre (Mange Area – Mkuze)
Available Spaces
- 15 learners per training site
Minimum Entry Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Grade 10, Grade 11 or Grade 12 results, or
- An NQF Level 2 qualification
Entrepreneurship Programme
The Entrepreneurship programme focuses on developing business management skills and teaches participants how to start and manage their own enterprises.
Training Sites
- Dan Nkosi Skills Centre (Bilanyoni – Paulpietersburg)
- Maputa Skills Centre (Thandizwe Area – KwaNgwanase)
Available Spaces
- 20 learners per training site
Minimum Entry Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 (Matric), or
- An NQF Level 4 qualification
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for these NSF-funded Skills Training Programmes, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be unemployed
- Not be studying or registered at any institution
- Not have previously benefited from NSF-funded programmes
- Be willing to complete the full three-month training programme
People living with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Important Notes
- No placement test is required.
- Only online applications will be accepted.
- Hand-delivered, faxed, and emailed applications will not be considered.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of highest school results or qualification
- Proof of residence
Having these documents ready will help ensure a smooth online application process
How to Apply for the NSF-funded Skills Training Programmes
Follow these steps to submit your online application:
- Visit the Mthashana Student Portal.
- Register as a new student if you do not already have an account.
- Create your student profile.
- Log in to the portal.
- Select your preferred campus.
- Choose the Workshop (3 Months) option.
- Select your preferred Skills Programme and complete your application.
The portal provides clear instructions to guide applicants through each st
Why Choose Mthashana TVET College?
Mthashana TVET College is recognised as one of South Africa’s leading Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions. Through quality teaching and practical training, the college continues to bridge the country’s skills gap while empowering young people with qualifications that support employment and entrepreneurship.
The NSF-funded Skills Training Programmes form part of this commitment by providing accessible education opportunities that help participants become economically active and self-sufficient.
NSF-funded Skills Training Programme Closing Date
Applications Close: Friday, 19 June 2026
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid missing this opportunity.
Related: Vhembe TVET College 4IR Training Programme 2026
The NSF-funded Skills Training Programmes 2026 offer unemployed South Africans a valuable opportunity to gain practical skills at no cost while receiving a monthly stipend. Whether you are interested in Food Preparation or Entrepreneurship, these programmes can provide the foundation for employment or starting your own business.
With Youth Month highlighting the importance of investing in the next generation, now is the ideal time to take advantage of this fully funded opportunity and build a brighter future through skills development.
