Bursaries

Q: Where can I find the application form?

A: Most bursary offers no longer make use of paper applications, applications are completed and submitted online. Alternatively, you can download the application form from the respective institution (where applicable) and submit your application. Walk-ins in other Higher Learning institutions are permitted.

Q: How much does the Bursary cover?

A: Bursary cover depends on the tuition fees of the institution you are applying to, the course of study, and accommodation. Most bursary offers cover tuition, books, as well as an allowance for accommodation.

Q: Who is eligible for applying for a bursary?

A: Any academically talented, young –

• learners, currently in Grade 12;
• graduates/students below the age of 35 who want to complete.
• Aspiring bursars must first gain admission at any higher education institution (HEI)

Learnerships

 Q: What is a Learnership?

A: A learnership is a structured learning programme during which the learner spends time learning theory and practical skills in the workplace directly related to an occupation or field of work. I.e. artisan work, Accounting, bookkeeping, project management, etc. This work-based programme leads to an NQF-registered qualification, managed by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).

 Q: Who is eligible for a Learnership?

A: Learnerships are available for young people between the ages of 16-35, who have completed school, college or learning at other training institutions. Unemployed South Africans can only participate in a Learnership if there is an employer prepared to provide the required work experience. The learner is dependent on a contract that legally binds all the parties and requires the learner to be employed by the employer only for the duration of the Learnership where after the employer can decide on whether to continue employment.

Q: What does a learner receive on completion?

A: Once all assignments are completed successfully, the learner will be awarded an NQF-registered qualification that is recognised nationally. The learner will receive a certificate stating the qualification and the area of skill development.

Q: What are the benefits for learners?

• Post Learnership employment opportunities.
• A remunerated Fixed-term employment contract for the duration of the program.
• It improves job performance and ensures that the learner becomes relevant in the job market.
• A nationally-recognized qualification that is relevant to the sector.

Q: How much will a learner earn?

Learner’s allowance:
i) An employer must pay a learner an allowance calculated in terms of clause 3 of Sectoral Determination No. 5: Learnerships
ii) A learner’s allowance must be calculated as a percentage of the qualified wage in accordance with column 3 in Table A
iii) No learner may be paid less than the applicable allowance specified in Table A.
The precise amount of the learner allowance depends on the type of learnership and the level of the qualification. The Minister of Labour has specified the minimum amount that employers must pay as allowance to unemployed learners in learnerships

Q: How do I apply for a learnership if I am unemployed?

A: You have to register with the Department of Labour (DoL) as a work-seeker by completing and handing the relevant forms. You must indicate your interest (preferred Sector) on the form. Ensure that your contact details are up to date. The DoL will then contact you if you meet the minimum criteria for the learnership of a specific employer. If you meet the criteria you may be called in for a briefing session and possible assessment before final selection.

Internships

Q: What is an internship?

A: An internship is an on-site work or on-job experience that is either directly related to your chosen career path/ or major field of study.  It can be paid or unpaid, however, in most instances, interns are remunerated. Internship programmes are mostly offered to graduates.

Q: When is a good time to start looking for an internship?

A: It is advisable to start looking for an internship when you are in your final year of study, however, please note that your academic results play a pivotal role in recruiting institutions to decide on whether to accept you or not. Some potential employers visit institutes of higher learning to scout potential Internship candidates.

Q: How much does an internship pay?

A: Remunerations depend on the industry/sector, level of skill, and the employer.