Does SETA Offer Free Courses in South Africa? (2025 Guide)
Are you looking to improve your skills, boost your career, or start a business? You may be asking, does SETA offer free courses in South Africa? The answer is yes. Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) offer a wide range of free, accredited training programs across various industries. These courses are part of a national drive to reduce unemployment, improve skills, and promote economic growth.
What Is a SETA?
SETA stands for Sector Education and Training Authority. These government-created bodies are responsible for developing skills within specific sectors of the economy, such as agriculture, construction, IT, tourism, finance, and more. There are currently 21 SETAs in South Africa, each focusing on a different industry.
Their role is to implement the National Skills Development Strategy (NSDS) by funding and coordinating skills training, learnerships, internships, and bursaries.
Does SETA Offer Free Courses?
Yes, SETAs offer a variety of free training programs to unemployed youth, graduates, entrepreneurs, and sometimes even employed individuals seeking upskilling. These courses are fully funded, meaning there are no tuition fees.
Types of Free Courses Offered by SETAs
1. Free Online Courses
Many SETAs now offer e-learning options. These online courses are often self-paced and accessible anywhere in South Africa.
Examples:
- MICT SETA offers free training in digital skills such as coding, social media marketing, and data literacy.
- Services SETA provides entrepreneurship training online for individuals and community groups.
2. Learnerships and Skills Programs
These are structured learning programs that combine theoretical study with practical work experience.
- Typically last 12 months
- Include a monthly stipend
- Designed for unemployed youth, matriculants, and graduates
3. Entrepreneurship Development Programs
SETAs like Services SETA and SEDA provide business development training to:
- Entrepreneurs
- Start-ups
- Cooperatives and NPOs
Courses focus on topics such as business planning, budgeting, compliance, and marketing.
4. Bursaries and Internships
SETAs such as AgriSETA and CHIETA offer:
- Bursaries for formal education
- Internships to help graduates gain experience
These opportunities are essential for developing both academic qualifications and job readiness.
5. Artisan and Technical Training
Technical SETAs like MERSETA and CETA offer free training in trades such as:
- Welding
- Electrical work
- Plumbing
- Automotive repair
- Civil engineering
These programs are delivered in partnership with TVET colleges and training centers.
Examples of SETAs Offering Free Courses
- Services SETA: Entrepreneurship, business services, real estate, and hospitality
- AgriSETA: Farming, food safety, and agricultural internships
- MICT SETA: Digital literacy, coding, and media production
- MERSETA: Engineering and manufacturing trade skills
- CETA: Construction skills, plumbing, carpentry, and site management
How to Find and Apply for SETA Courses
1. Visit Official SETA Websites
Each SETA has a dedicated website where you can find current opportunities, bursaries, and application forms.
Examples:
2. Search Online
Use search terms like:
- “Free SETA courses 2025”
- “Accredited learnerships in South Africa”
- “Online SETA training programs”
3. Register on SETA Portals
Some SETAs require users to register on their online training portals. Be sure to have:
- South African ID
- Email address
- Basic digital literacy
4. Contact Local TVET Colleges
Many free SETA courses are offered through TVET colleges. Contact a college near you to see what’s available.
Why Choose a SETA Course?
- Accredited: All courses are SAQA-recognized
- Free of Charge: No tuition or registration fees
- Employment-Boosting: Many programs include practical experience or lead to jobs
- Flexible Learning: Options include online and in-person formats
Final Thoughts
Yes, SETA offers free courses—and they are life-changing. Whether you’re a school leaver, unemployed graduate, or an aspiring entrepreneur, SETA-funded programs give you access to valuable skills, certifications, and experience at no cost.
Visit your relevant SETA’s website, find a course that fits your goals, and take your first step toward a brighter future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who qualifies for SETA courses?
A: Unemployed youth, matriculants, graduates, and in some cases employed individuals seeking upskilling.
Q: Are SETA courses really free?
A: Yes, most are fully funded by government levies. Some include stipends.
Q: Are the certificates recognized?
A: Yes, all SETA-accredited programs are recognized by SAQA.
Q: Where can I apply?
A: On the official SETA websites or at local TVET colleges.
