The Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA), in partnership with mLab, is inviting unemployed South African graduates to apply for the Introduction to Internet of Things (IoT) Short Skills Programme 2026.
This three-month programme is designed to equip graduates with practical Internet of Things (IoT) development skills, preparing them for careers in one of the fastest-growing technology sectors. Eligible participants may also receive a monthly stipend, subject to the funder’s eligibility criteria.
Application Closing Date: 15 August 2026
Programme Location: Kimberley, Northern Cape
MICT SETA & mLab IoT Short Skills Programme Overview
| Programme Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Introduction to Internet of Things (IoT) Short Skills Programme |
| Offered By | mLab |
| Endorsed By | MICT SETA |
| Programme Duration | 3 Months |
| Location | Kimberley, Northern Cape |
| Employment Status | Unemployed |
| Minimum Qualification | NQF Level 5 or Higher |
| Stipend | Available (subject to funder eligibility criteria) |
| Closing Date | 15 August 2026 |
About mLab
mLab is one of South Africa’s leading technology innovation hubs dedicated to developing digital skills, supporting entrepreneurship, and preparing young professionals for careers in technology.
Through partnerships with organisations such as MICT SETA, mLab delivers practical, industry-focused training that helps bridge the gap between academic qualifications and workplace requirements.
The organisation focuses on equipping graduates with hands-on experience that aligns with the rapidly evolving digital economy.
What Is the Internet of Things (IoT)?
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to physical devices that are connected to the internet, allowing them to collect, share, and analyse data automatically.
Examples of IoT technology include:
- Smart home devices
- Security cameras
- Smart electricity meters
- Agricultural monitoring systems
- Vehicle tracking systems
- Wearable fitness devices
- Industrial sensors
- Smart traffic management systems
- Healthcare monitoring equipment
IoT technologies are becoming increasingly important across industries as organisations adopt smart solutions to improve efficiency and decision-making.
Why IoT Skills Matter
Demand for IoT professionals continues to grow across various sectors, including:
- Mining
- Agriculture
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Retail
- Logistics
- Telecommunications
- Smart City development
Professionals with IoT knowledge can contribute to the development of connected systems that combine software, hardware, networking, and automation technologies.
What You May Learn
While the official programme advert does not provide a detailed curriculum, participants are expected to gain introductory knowledge in areas such as:
- Internet of Things fundamentals
- Programming for connected devices
- Sensors and actuators
- Microcontrollers
- Networking basics
- Cloud connectivity
- Device communication
- Data collection
- Smart automation
- IoT project development
The programme is designed to strengthen participants’ technical skills and improve their employability within the ICT sector.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the programme, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be unemployed.
- Hold an NQF Level 5 qualification or higher.
- Be available full-time for the duration of the three-month programme.
- Not currently be enrolled in another SETA-funded programme.
Applicants who do not meet these requirements may not be considered.
Who Should Apply?
This programme is particularly suitable for graduates with qualifications in:
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Software Development
- Information Systems
- Networking
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronics
- Mechatronics
- Computer Engineering
Graduates with coding experience who are interested in emerging technologies are also encouraged to apply.
Career Opportunities After Completing the Programme
Although this is a short skills programme, it can strengthen your CV for careers such as:
- IoT Developer
- Junior Software Developer
- Embedded Systems Developer
- IoT Support Technician
- Automation Technician
- Smart Systems Developer
- Firmware Developer
- Industrial IoT Technician
- IoT Testing Technician
- Technology Consultant
Practical IoT skills are increasingly valued by employers across South Africa’s growing technology sector.
Fresh listings:
Benefits of the Programme
Successful participants will have the opportunity to:
- Develop practical technical skills.
- Gain exposure to industry-relevant technologies.
- Improve problem-solving and programming abilities.
- Build a portfolio of practical projects.
- Enhance their employability in the ICT industry.
- Prepare for careers in digital transformation and smart technologies.
Why Choose an IoT Skills Programme?
Technology continues to evolve rapidly, and employers increasingly seek graduates with practical experience rather than academic knowledge alone.
Participating in a programme like this can help you:
- Gain hands-on experience.
- Learn emerging technologies.
- Improve your employment prospects.
- Prepare for future specialised ICT roles.
- Build confidence before entering the workforce.
How to Apply
Eligible applicants should submit their applications through the official mLab application process before the closing date.
Before applying, ensure that you:
- Meet all the eligibility requirements.
- Have your qualification documents available.
- Are available to participate full-time for the programme duration.
- Are not currently enrolled in another SETA-funded programme.
Application Closing Date
Closing Date: 15 August 2026
Late applications may not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline.
Conclusion
The MICT SETA & mLab Introduction to Internet of Things (IoT) Short Skills Programme 2026 is an excellent opportunity for unemployed graduates who want to build practical skills in one of the world’s fastest-growing technology fields. Through three months of hands-on training, participants will gain valuable exposure to IoT concepts, connected technologies, and digital innovation while improving their employability in South Africa’s expanding ICT sector. If you meet the eligibility requirements and are passionate about technology, be sure to apply before 15 August 2026 to take the next step towards a career in the digital economy.