Young South Africans who want to become qualified artisans now have a powerful opportunity to build a long-term engineering career.

South West Gauteng TVET College, in partnership with FoodBev SETA, has opened applications for its 2026 Centre of Specialisation (CoS) Apprenticeship Programme.

This is not a short course or basic learnership. It is a 36-month structured apprenticeship that leads to an Occupational Certificate and prepares you for trade testing.

If you’re under 35 and serious about mechanical or electrical engineering, this could be your breakthrough.

Programme Overview

Programme: Centre of Specialisation Apprenticeship (2026 First Intake)
Type: 36-Month Apprenticeship
Institution: South West Gauteng TVET College
Partner: FoodBev SETA
Total Posts Available: 60
Closing Date: 13 March 2026
Age Requirement: Under 35 years

Trades Available (2026 Intake)

Occupational Certificate: Fitter and Turner

📍 Campus: Molapo
📌 Positions: 25

Fitters and Turners machine, assemble, and maintain industrial mechanical components used in factories and production plants.

Occupational Certificate: Mechanical Fitter

📍 Campus: Molapo
📌 Positions: 25

Mechanical Fitters install and repair heavy industrial machinery like pumps, turbines, and plant equipment

Occupational Certificate: Electrician

📍 Campus: Roodepoort West
📌 Positions: 10

Electricians work on industrial electrical systems, power installations, and infrastructure projects — a highly in-demand skill across South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

For Fitter & Turner or Mechanical Fitter:

Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics
OR NCV Level 2–4 (21 subjects completed) in Fitting & Turning
OR N2–N6 Mechanical Engineering (with relevant trade theory)

For Electricians:

Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics
OR NCV Level 2–4 Electrical Infrastructure (21 subjects completed)
OR N2–N6 Electrical Engineering

Additional Conditions:

Must be under 35 years old
Preference given to South West Gauteng TVET College students
Must pass assessment processes
Successful candidates will sign an ETQA apprenticeship agreement

Documents Required

Applicants must submit:

Application letter (clearly state the trade)
Updated CV
Certified copy of ID
Certified copies of qualifications
Proof of address
Proof of bank account

Applications must be submitted at the relevant SWGC campus.

QUICK LINKS:

Why This Apprenticeship Matters

Artisan trades remain among South Africa’s most in-demand and scarce skills.

Completing this 36-month programme can lead to:

✔ Trade Test qualification
✔ Employment as a qualified artisan
✔ Higher artisan wage scales
✔ Opportunities in mining, manufacturing, construction, and energy
✔ Entrepreneurship in mechanical or electrical services

With experience, artisans can later pursue:

N6 Diplomas
Engineering diplomas
Supervisory or specialist technical roles

Artisan careers offer long-term stability and growth.

Youthscope Advice for Applicants

If you’re serious about being selected:

Make sure your Mathematics results meet the requirement
Organise certified copies early
Write a focused, clear application letter
Highlight workshop or practical subjects
Prepare for assessment tests

Artisan programmes are competitive — preparation matters.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit:

Application letter clearly stating the programme applied for
Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae
Certified copy of ID
Certified copies of qualifications
Proof of address
Proof of account

Applications should be submitted at South West Gauteng TVET College Campuses

Enquiries:

Molapo Campus
Ms. Mokoatle
010 141 8090

Roodepoort West Campus
Mr. Ntube
010 141 3026

Working hours for enquiries: 07h30 – 16h00

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1️⃣ Is this a paid apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships typically include an employment contract. Stipend details are usually confirmed during selection.

2️⃣ Do I need work experience?

No. Academic qualifications are the main requirement.

3️⃣ Can I apply if I’m older than 35?

No. The advert clearly states applicants must be under 35.

4️⃣ Is this a learnership?

No. This is a formal apprenticeship programme, which is more intensive and leads toward trade testing.

5️⃣ Is employment guaranteed after completion?

Permanent employment is not guaranteed, but qualified artisans are highly employable.

6️⃣ Can non-SWGC students apply?

Yes, but preference may be given to South West Gauteng TVET College students.

7️⃣ What happens after selection?

Successful candidates sign an ETQA apprenticeship agreement and enter into a formal training contract.

Closing Date

13 March 2026

Early application is strongly recommended due to limited spaces (60 posts only).

Final Thoughts

If you want more than just a certificate — if you want a real engineering career — this apprenticeship could change your future.

Mechanical and electrical artisans remain among the most secure technical careers in South Africa. With structured training, national certification, and industry exposure, this programme offers a strong foundation for long-term success.

Mbalizuke Nkosi

Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to sharing opportunities, education updates, and career development information. The editorial team focuses on producing clear, reliable, and easy-to-understand content for students, job seekers, and young professionals.

With a strong interest in youth empowerment, skills development, and access to opportunities, Youth Admin curates and publishes content covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, and study guides across South Africa.

The aim of Mbalizuke Nkosi is to simplify important information and make it accessible to young people who are building their future careers.

South West Gauteng TVET College & FoodBev SETA Apprenticeship Programme 2026 (X60 Posts) Age Requirement: Under 35 years