SSETA WIL Programme 2025: A Year of Practical ICT Experience for NCV Graduates

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SSETA Work Integrated Learning Programme 2025: A 12-Month Opportunity for IT Graduates

South Africa’s technology sector continues to grow, creating more demand for young professionals with practical, workplace-ready skills. To meet this need, the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SSETA), in partnership with Ehlanzeni TVET College, has announced the 2025 Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme for qualifying candidates in the field of Information Technology and Communication Studies.

This 12-month skills development opportunity SSETA WIL Programme 2025 is aimed at young people who are unemployed, not in education or training, and eager to gain real workplace experience. If you meet the requirements, this could be the first step toward building a sustainable career in South Africa’s ICT sector.

What is the SSETA Work Integrated Learning Programme?

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is a structured programme designed to help graduates and final-year students gain practical, hands-on experience in their chosen field. The 2025 SSETA WIL Programme for Information Technology and Communication Studies is specifically targeted at NCV Level graduates (Levels 1 to 4).

The main objective of this programme is to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the demands of the workplace, helping participants develop the technical, problem-solving, and professional skills needed in the ICT industry.

Who Can Apply?

This opportunity is aimed at NEET youth — meaning you are Not in Employment, Education, or Training — and you hold the relevant qualification.

Minimum requirements include:

Qualification: NCV Level in Information Technology and Communication Studies (Levels 1–4 certificates required).
Employment status: You must be unemployed.
Education status: You must not be enrolled in any other education or training programme.
Location: While the advert does not specify residency restrictions, preference may be given to candidates within Ehlanzeni TVET College’s catchment area.

Programme Duration and Structure

The programme runs for 12 months and blends practical workplace exposure with mentorship and on-the-job learning. Successful candidates will be placed in relevant host employers where they can apply their theoretical knowledge in real work environments.

Programme features include:

Full-time placement for the duration of the year.
Mentorship from experienced ICT professionals.
Skills development aligned with workplace demands.
Networking opportunities with potential employers in the ICT sector.

Benefits of Participating

Joining the SSETA WIL Programme offers several career advantages, especially for recent graduates looking to break into the competitive ICT industry.

Hands-On Experience: You will work on real projects and tasks that match your field of study.
Professional Growth: The programme builds both technical and soft skills, including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Industry Exposure: You gain insight into how ICT operations function in different work settings.
Employability Boost: Completing a WIL programme strengthens your CV and can lead to further employment opportunities.

Application Process

All applications must be submitted before the closing date of 11 August 2025. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.

To apply:

Prepare your documents — You will need:
- A comprehensive CV outlining your personal details, education, skills, and any prior work experience (if applicable).
- A certified copy of your South African ID.
- Your academic records — NCV Level 1–4 certificates.
Combine all documents into a single PDF file — This ensures your application is organised and easy to review.
Email your application to:
wilplacements@ehlanzenicollege.co.za

Important Tips for a Strong Application

To improve your chances of selection, consider the following tips:

Highlight your ICT skills — Mention specific software, programming languages, or technical abilities you have mastered.
Keep your CV concise but informative — Aim for two pages that focus on skills and achievements.
Double-check your document format — Ensure all pages are clear and legible.
Use a professional email subject line — Example: Application for 2025 SSETA WIL Programme – Your Name.
Submit early — This gives you time to correct any submission errors.

Why Work Integrated Learning Matters

In today’s job market, employers often look for candidates who have both academic qualifications and relevant work experience. Unfortunately, many graduates struggle to secure their first job due to a lack of practical exposure. WIL programmes address this challenge by providing:

Industry-Relevant Skills — Students learn how to apply theory in real workplace situations.
Professional Networking — Participants meet industry contacts who can recommend or hire them in the future.
Career Direction — Exposure to real work environments helps you identify your strengths and interests.

About SSETA

The Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SSETA) is one of South Africa’s 21 SETAs. Its mandate is to facilitate skills development in the services sector, ensuring that learners are equipped for meaningful employment. Through initiatives like the WIL Programme, SSETA helps bridge the skills gap and prepare young South Africans for the modern workplace.

About Ehlanzeni TVET College

Ehlanzeni TVET College is a leading Technical and Vocational Education and Training institution in Mpumalanga, offering a range of qualifications aimed at preparing students for employment and entrepreneurship. Its partnership with SSETA ensures that learners receive opportunities to gain workplace experience after completing their studies.

Key Dates and Deadlines

Programme Start: Early 2025 (Exact date to be confirmed after selection).
Application Deadline: 11 August 2025.
Notification of Results: Applicants will be contacted via email or phone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I get paid during the programme?
Yes, WIL participants typically receive a stipend to cover basic expenses. The exact amount will be confirmed during placement.

2. Can I apply if I’m still studying?
No, this programme is for individuals who are currently unemployed and not enrolled in any other education or training.

3. What if I have an ICT qualification other than NCV?
This call is specifically for NCV Level applicants in Information Technology and Communication Studies. Other qualifications may not be considered for this intake.

4. Will I be placed in a company near my home?
Placement depends on available host employers. While efforts are made to match candidates with convenient locations, relocation may be required.

5. How many positions are available?
The exact number of placements is not stated. Selection will depend on the number of applications and host employer capacity.

How This Programme Supports Career Development in ICT

South Africa’s ICT industry is central to economic growth, supporting sectors like finance, education, healthcare, and manufacturing. By taking part in this WIL programme, candidates gain:

Digital literacy and technical competence relevant to modern workplaces.
Problem-solving skills that make them adaptable to technological changes.
Confidence in professional settings through day-to-day interactions with experienced colleagues.

Such exposure is invaluable for building a long-term career in ICT or related fields.

Final Checklist Before You Apply

Comprehensive CV (updated and tailored to ICT roles)
Certified copy of your ID
Certified copies of NCV Level 1–4 certificates
All documents combined into one PDF
Application sent to wilplacements@ehlanzenicollege.co.za before 11 August 2025

Conclusion

The SSETA Work Integrated Learning Programme 2025 is more than just a placement — it’s a stepping stone into South Africa’s growing ICT industry. If you meet the requirements, this is your chance to gain real-world experience, develop professional skills, and improve your employability.

With the closing date approaching, early preparation is key. Ensure your application is complete, accurate, and professional, and take the first step toward building your ICT career.