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The UIF Labour Learning Skills Programme 2026 offers unemployed South Africans a chance to gain skills, qualifications, and work experience in key sectors like agriculture, construction, ICT, and entrepreneurship. Applications close 30 September 2025.
Introduction: A Lifeline for the Unemployed
South Africa continues to face one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, with millions of people — particularly the youth — struggling to secure sustainable employment. In response, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has expanded its Labour Activation Programme (LAP) to offer meaningful opportunities through learnerships and skills development initiatives.
The UIF LAP is not just another short-term project. It is a strategic government intervention designed to address critical skills shortages while helping unemployed citizens gain nationally recognized qualifications. For 2026, the programme is being implemented in partnership with We Invest Africa (Pty) Ltd, ensuring structured training, mentorship, and practical exposure.
With each intake accommodating 30 unemployed individuals per programme, this initiative is designed to be highly impactful, equipping learners with both technical knowledge and hands-on experience.
What Is the UIF Labour Activation Programme (LAP)?
The Labour Activation Programme is a flagship project under the UIF that invests in training and upskilling unemployed South Africans. The goal is simple:
- Equip learners with scarce and critical skills needed in priority industries.
- Provide real work exposure through structured learnerships and practical training.
- Improve employability by offering qualifications registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
- Encourage entrepreneurship so graduates can create opportunities for themselves and others.
Unlike many short-term workshops, UIF LAP programmes last 12 months, giving participants enough time to build both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.
Learnership Opportunities for 2026
The UIF LAP offers several SAQA-accredited learnerships, each designed to address industry demands. Learners will attend classroom sessions and complete on-the-job training, resulting in a national qualification upon successful completion.
Available Learnerships:
- National Certificate: Mixed Farming Systems — NQF Level 2
- National Certificate: Plant Production — NQF Level 3
- National Certificate: Landscaping — NQF Level 2
- National Certificate: Animal Production — NQF Level 2
- National Certificate: Construction Roadworks — NQF Level 3
- National Certificate: Building Health and Safety — NQF Level 3
- National Certificate: Building a Community House — NQF Level 2
- National Certificate: Process Control for Water and Wastewater — NQF Level 3
These programmes do more than impart technical knowledge. They focus on work readiness, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, making graduates more competitive in the job market.
Skills Programmes for 2026
For applicants looking for shorter, targeted training, the UIF LAP also offers skills programmes. These are designed for individuals who want specific trade or business skills that can quickly translate into employment or self-employment opportunities.
Useful Links:
- Learnerships Programme
- Online courses
- Funding Bursaries
- Internships Programme
- Youth Opportunities
- Learning Programmes 2026
Focus Areas Include:
- Entrepreneurship
- Professional driving
- Farming (including poultry and horticulture)
- Construction health and safety
- Plumbing and bricklaying
- Environmental practices
- Hygiene and cleaning
- Customer service
- Plastering
- End-user computing
- Solar installation
These skill sets align with South Africa’s national development priorities, particularly in areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, and construction, where demand for trained workers continues to grow.
Why the UIF LAP Matters
South Africa faces pressing socio-economic challenges. By offering structured learnerships and skills development, the UIF LAP provides:
- Nationally recognized qualifications — boosting employability.
- Hands-on experience — bridging the gap between classroom learning and workplace practice.
- Entrepreneurship pathways — enabling participants to start small businesses.
- Industry relevance — training in areas directly linked to economic growth.
- Social upliftment — empowering individuals to break cycles of poverty and unemployment.
This programme goes beyond individual impact. By producing skilled graduates, it strengthens communities and contributes to national economic growth.
Minimum Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Be currently unemployed.
- Be between 18 and 55 years old.
- Have at least Grade 10 or higher.
- Show interest in the construction/building sector (priority area).
- Not be currently enrolled in another learnership or skills programme.
These requirements ensure that opportunities are directed to individuals most in need and capable of benefiting from structured training.
Application Process: How to Apply
Applicants must submit their application in person. Required documents include:
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Certified copies of academic qualifications (at least Grade 10).
- Proof of residential address.
Submission Address:
Shulimani Training Academy
Stand No. 102
Old Kurhuleni Creche
Ntsumele B, Kurhuleni Mission, 0933
Closing Date: 30 September 2025
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Tips for a Strong Application
To stand out among the many applicants, consider these tips:
- Prepare a neat, updated CV that highlights any previous training or volunteer work.
- Certify all documents at your nearest police station or commissioner of oaths.
- Submit early to avoid last-minute complications.
- Clearly indicate your field of interest (e.g., farming, construction, ICT).
- Double-check contact details to ensure the academy can reach you.
Benefits of Joining the Programme
By enrolling in the UIF Labour Learning Skills Programme, participants gain access to:
- Free training fully funded by UIF.
- Nationally recognized qualifications through SAQA-accredited courses.
- Monthly stipends (where applicable) to support transport and meals.
- Real-world work exposure in agriculture, construction, ICT, or entrepreneurship.
- Improved employability in industries facing high demand.
- Opportunities for self-employment through entrepreneurship training.
For many unemployed individuals, this programme is a life-changing opportunity.
The Bigger Picture: South Africa’s Skills Revolution
Government interventions like the UIF LAP are central to addressing South Africa’s unemployment crisis. Instead of short-term relief, this initiative offers sustainable, long-term benefits by equipping citizens with tools for economic participation.
The focus on priority industries such as agriculture, construction, ICT, and renewable energy reflects the country’s commitment to inclusive growth. Graduates from these programmes will not only secure jobs but may also create opportunities for others.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss This Opportunity
The UIF Labour Learning Skills Programme 2026 is more than just training — it’s a pathway to a better future. By combining education, practical skills, and nationally recognized qualifications, the programme empowers unemployed South Africans to secure jobs or start businesses in sectors vital to the country’s growth.
With only 30 spots available per programme, competition is high. If you meet the requirements, prepare your documents, and apply before the deadline.
Closing Date: 30 September 2025
Location: Shulimani Training Academy, Kurhuleni Mission
Take the first step today and be part of South Africa’s skills revolution.
