NSF Funded Skills Training Programmes 2026: Fully Funded Training + Monthly Stipend
Unemployed South Africans can now apply for fully funded short skills programmes in Food Preparation or Entrepreneurship. Training lasts three months and includes a monthly stipend.
The NSF Funded Skills Training Programmes 2026 give unemployed South Africans practical, job-ready skills at no cost. Successful applicants receive a monthly stipend while they train.
These programmes are funded by the National Skills Fund and delivered through Mthashana TVET College. They focus on two high-demand areas: Food Preparation and Entrepreneurship. Both run for three months and equip participants to either find work or start their own small business.
What is the NSF Funded Skills Training Programmes 2026?
The National Skills Fund supports short, practical skills programmes that help close the gap between education and employment. This current call targets unemployed youth and adults who want to gain real skills quickly.
Training takes place at dedicated skills centres in KwaZulu-Natal. Participants learn by doing, not just theory. The goal is clear: finish the programme with skills that employers or customers will pay for.
Key Benefits
● Fully funded training
No tuition or registration fees. The National Skills Fund covers all training costs.
● Monthly stipend
Receive financial support during the three-month programme to cover basic living costs.
● Practical, hands-on skills
Learn real work skills in food preparation or how to run a small business.
● Recognised certification
Receive a certificate or statement of results from Mthashana TVET College upon completion.
Who Can Apply?
You must meet these requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be unemployed and not registered at any school, college or university
- Have not previously benefited from an NSF-funded programme
- Be willing and able to complete the full three-month training
- People living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply
Minimum entry requirements by programme
| Programme | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Food Preparation | Grade 10, Grade 11, Grade 12 or NQF Level 2 |
| Entrepreneurship | Grade 12 (Matric) or NQF Level 4 |
No placement test is required. Only online applications are accepted.
Available Programmes in 2026
Mthashana TVET College is currently offering two NSF-funded skills programmes with limited spaces.
| Programme | Duration | Training Locations | Spaces | Career Path |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Food Preparation | 3 months | Babanango Skills Centre Mashiyinduku Skills Centre (Mkuze area) | 15 per site | Restaurants, hotels, catering companies or start your own food business |
| Entrepreneurship | 3 months | Dan Nkosi Skills Centre (Paulpietersburg) Maputa Skills Centre (KwaNgwanase) | 20 per site | Start and manage your own small business or improve an existing one |
How to Apply for NSF Funded Skills Training Programmes 2026
Applications are online only. Follow these steps exactly:
- Go to the Mthashana Student Portal https://www.mthashanacollege.co.za/online-applications-for-skills-training-programmes/
- Register as a new student
- Create an account if you don’t already have one.
- Complete your student profile
- Select your preferred campus / skills centre
- Choose “Workshop (3 Months)” then select either Food Preparation or Entrepreneurship
- Upload required documents and submit
Documents you must prepare
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your highest school results or qualification
- Proof of residence
Have these documents scanned and ready before you start the application.
Why These NSF Skills Training Programmes Matter
South Africa continues to face high youth unemployment. Short, practical skills programmes like these give people a direct route into work or self-employment without years of study.
Food Preparation skills are in demand in hospitality and tourism. Entrepreneurship training helps participants create their own income instead of waiting for a job. Both options support the National Skills Development Plan goals.
Ready to start?
Applications close on 19 June 2026. Spaces are limited at each training site.
Apply Now on the Official Portal
Only online applications via the Mthashana portal will be accepted. Late or hand-delivered applications will not be considered.
The NSF Funded Skills Training Programmes 2026 offer a real chance to gain practical skills, receive a monthly stipend, and improve your chances of employment or self-employment. If you meet the requirements, apply today before the 19 June deadline.
This opportunity is currently open to South African citizens only. Nigerian readers looking for similar funded training can explore ITF skills programmes and other local initiatives on our site.