Unemployed South Africans looking to gain practical skills and improve their employment prospects can now apply for the National Skills Fund (NSF) Food Preparation and Entrepreneurship Short Skills Training Programmes 2026 offered through Mthashana TVET College.
These fully funded three-month programmes provide participants with industry-relevant training, practical experience, and a monthly stipend throughout the course. There are no registration, tuition, or consumable fees, making this an excellent opportunity for individuals who want to develop new skills or start their own businesses.
Applications close on 19 June 2026.
Programme Overview
- Training Provider: Mthashana TVET College
- Funding Partner: National Skills Fund (NSF)
- Programme Type: Short Skills Training
- Duration: 3 Months
- Location: Various Skills Centres in KwaZulu-Natal
- Monthly Stipend: Yes
- Application Method: Online only
- Closing Date: 19 June 2026
Available Training Programmes
Two practical skills programmes are available for 2026.
Food Preparation Programme
The Food Preparation programme equips participants with practical catering and food production skills that can be used for employment or self-employment.
Learners may develop skills suitable for:
- Catering businesses
- Restaurants
- Hospitality industry roles
- Community feeding projects
- Food production services
- Small food enterprises
Training Centres
Babanango Skills Centre
- Area: Babanango
- Centre Code: Vryheid Campus 06
- Available Spaces: 15
Mashiyinduku Skills Centre
- Area: Mange Area, Mkuze
- Centre Code: Maputa Campus 05
- Available Spaces: 15
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have one of the following:
- Grade 10 results
- Grade 11 results
- Grade 12 results
- Matric Certificate
- NQF Level 2 qualification
Entrepreneurship Programme
The Entrepreneurship programme is designed for individuals who want to create their own business opportunities and develop essential business management skills.
Participants will learn about:
- Starting a business
- Business planning
- Financial management
- Entrepreneurship principles
- Sustainable business operations
- Managing small enterprises
Training Centres
Dan Nkosi Skills Centre
- Area: Bilanyoni, Paulpietersburg
- Centre Code: Vryheid Campus 01
- Available Spaces: 20
Maputa Skills Centre
- Area: Thandizwe, KwaNgwanase
- Centre Code: Maputa Campus 05
- Available Spaces: 20
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 (Matric), or
- NQF Level 4 qualification
General Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be unemployed
- Not currently be studying
- Not be registered for another programme
- Not have previously benefited from an NSF-funded programme
- Be available to complete the full three-month training period
Persons living with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Benefits of the Programme
Successful participants will receive:
- Fully funded skills training
- Monthly stipend payments
- Practical workplace-relevant skills
- No registration fees
- No tuition fees
- No consumable costs
- Improved employability
- Skills that can support self-employment or entrepreneurship
These programmes provide an opportunity to build valuable experience without financial barriers.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare certified copies of:
- South African ID
- Highest school qualification or results
- Proof of residence
Ensure all documents are clear, readable, and properly certified before submitting your application.
Fresh listings:
How to Apply
Applications must be completed online through the Mthashana TVET College student portal.
Application Steps
- Visit the student portal.
- Register a new account if you are a first-time user.
- Create your student profile.
- Select your preferred campus or skills centre.
- Choose the available three-month skills programme.
- Complete and submit your application.
Hand-delivered, faxed, and emailed applications will not be accepted.
Important Notes
Applicants should remember that:
- Placement tests are not required.
- Training is fully funded.
- Monthly stipends are available for participating learners.
- Participants must commit to completing the full programme.
- Only online applications will be accepted.
Closing Date
Applications for the National Skills Fund Food Preparation and Entrepreneurship Short Skills Training Programmes 2026 close on 19 June 2026.
Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid missing out on this funded opportunity.
Final Thoughts
The NSF-funded short skills programmes offered through Mthashana TVET College provide unemployed South Africans with a practical pathway to gain new skills, improve employability, and explore entrepreneurial opportunities. Whether you are interested in food preparation or starting your own business, these fully funded programmes offer valuable training supported by monthly stipends, making them an excellent opportunity for personal and professional growth.