AgriSETA Learnerships 2026 for Matriculants in South Africa

South African matriculants interested in agriculture, farming, food production, horticulture, animal production, grain handling, poultry, and related industries can benefit from AgriSETA Learnerships. These programmes combine classroom learning with workplace experience and lead to nationally recognised qualifications registered with SAQA.

Opportunity Overview

AgriSETA (Agriculture Sector Education and Training Authority) supports skills development in South Africa’s agricultural sector. Learnerships provide unemployed and employed learners with practical workplace exposure while completing accredited training.

Successful learners obtain recognised qualifications that improve employability and career growth opportunities within the agricultural industry.

About AgriSETA

AgriSETA is responsible for promoting education, training, and skills development within South Africa’s agricultural sector. The organisation works with employers, training providers, commodity organisations, and government stakeholders to address skills shortages and create employment pathways.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants are generally expected to:

• Be South African citizens
• Hold a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate
• Be unemployed when applying for unemployed learnerships
• Have an interest in agriculture and farming-related careers
• Be willing to participate in both theoretical and practical training
• Meet any additional programme-specific requirements

Requirements may vary depending on the learnership provider and qualification level.

Available Learnership Fields

AgriSETA supports qualifications in various agricultural sectors, including:

Farming and Production

• Plant Production
• Animal Production
• Mixed Farming Systems
• Farm Worker Programmes
• Farm Owner Programmes

Horticulture

• Horticulture
• Landscaping

Grain Industry

• Grain Handling Processes
• Grain Handling Management
• Agricultural Machinery Technician
• Agri Sales and Services

Poultry Industry

• Poultry Production
• Poultry Processing

Other Agricultural Fields

• Fruit Packaging and Grading
• Pest Control Operations
• Meat Examination
• Meat Classification
• Abattoir Operations and Supervision

These programmes range from NQF Level 1 to NQF Level 5 qualifications.

Stipend and Duration

According to AgriSETA’s published FAQ information:

• Learnerships generally run from 30 weeks up to 12 months
• Some programmes may extend depending on qualification requirements
• Unemployed learners may receive a monthly stipend
• Historical AgriSETA information references a stipend of approximately R1,203 per month for certain unemployed learner programmes, although current amounts may differ by project and provider.

Applicants should verify stipend details with the specific training provider or employer offering the learnership.

Required Documents Checklist

Prepare the following:

• Updated CV
• Certified copy of South African ID
• Certified copy of Matric Certificate Proof of residence
• Academic transcripts (if applicable)
• SARS Tax Number (if required)
• Bank confirmation letter (if requested)
• Any additional supporting documents specified in the advert

How to Apply

Step 1

Visit the AgriSETA learning programmes portal and monitor new opportunities.

Step 2

Identify an accredited training provider or employer offering AgriSETA-funded learnerships.

Step 3

Review the eligibility criteria carefully.

Step 4

Prepare all required certified documents.

Step 5

Submit your application before the closing date.

Step 6

Attend assessments, interviews, or screening processes if shortlisted.

Closing Date

AgriSETA itself funds various learning programmes annually. Application periods can differ depending on employers, training providers, and specific projects.

Applicants should regularly monitor AgriSETA announcements and accredited providers for active learnership opportunities.

Why You Should Apply

AgriSETA Learnerships offer:

• Nationally recognised qualifications
• Practical workplace experience
• Industry-relevant skills
• Exposure to agricultural careers
• Improved employability
• Potential pathways into permanent employment
• Opportunities for further education and training

Explore More Opportunities:

• Internships
• Bursaries
• Learnerships
• General Worker Jobs
• Guides
• Apprenticeships
• Students News
• Scholarships
• Fellowships

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need Matric to apply?

Many AgriSETA learnerships accept Matric holders, although some programmes may accept lower qualifications depending on the NQF level.

Will I receive a stipend?

Most unemployed learnerships include a stipend, but the amount varies by programme and provider.

Is employment guaranteed after completion?

No. However, the qualification and workplace experience significantly improve employment prospects.

Will I receive a certificate?

Yes. Successful learners receive a nationally recognised qualification and certificate.

Can I apply if I have no farming experience?

Yes. Many entry-level programmes are designed for beginners entering the agricultural sector.

Career Pathways After Completion

Completing an AgriSETA Learnership can lead to careers such as:

• Farm Worker
• Agricultural Technician
• Horticulture Assistant
• Grain Handling Operator
• Poultry Production Worker
• Agricultural Sales Representative
• Farm Supervisor
• Agricultural Machinery Technician
• Pest Control Technician
• Farm Manager (with further experience and qualifications)

Expert Guidance (E-E-A-T – Mbalizuke Nkosi)

Agriculture remains one of South Africa’s most important economic sectors, contributing significantly to food security and rural employment. Matriculants who complete AgriSETA learnerships gain practical skills that employers value. To improve your chances of selection, ensure your CV is professional, your documents are certified, and you apply as soon as opportunities become available. Building experience through learnerships can create pathways to further qualifications, apprenticeships, and permanent employment opportunities within the agricultural value chain.

— Mbalizuke Nkosi

Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational purposes only. Programme requirements, stipends, durations, and application procedures may change without notice. Applicants are encouraged to verify all information through official AgriSETA communications and accredited training providers before submitting applications.

For official information, visit AgriSETA Official Website and review the learnership and learning programme sections.