SAFCOL Artisan Development Programme 2027 – Apprenticeship Opportunities
Company: SAFCOL (South African Forestry Company SOC Limited)
Programme: Artisan Development Programme 2027
Duration: 3 Years
Closing Date: 23 November 2026
About the Programme
SAFCOL is offering an exciting opportunity for unemployed South African youth who are interested in building careers in engineering, mechanical and electrical trades. The Artisan Development Programme is designed to equip participants with industry-recognised technical skills, practical workplace experience and the opportunity to qualify as artisans through formal trade testing.
Successful candidates will be enrolled at an accredited training centre where they will complete both theoretical and practical training. In addition, apprentices will receive hands-on workplace exposure at SAFCOL sawmills, allowing them to gain valuable industry experience while learning their chosen trade.
Throughout the programme, learners will receive a monthly stipend to assist with their training journey.
Available Apprenticeship Trades
Applicants can apply for the following trades:
- Fitter and Turner
- Millwright
- Electrical
- Diesel Mechanic
- Boilermaking
Applicants must indicate their preferred trade when applying and ensure they meet the relevant academic requirements.
What the Programme Offers
- Three years of structured artisan training
- Practical workplace experience at SAFCOL operations
- Exposure to industry-standard equipment and processes
- Mentorship from experienced artisans and technical staff
- Monthly stipend throughout the programme
- Opportunity to complete a recognised trade test
- Nationally recognised artisan qualification upon successful completion
Minimum Requirements
To be considered, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be unemployed
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Have completed Grade 12 (recommended)
- Possess a minimum N2 qualification or Level 3 TVET Certificate with relevant trade theory
- Meet the academic requirements for the chosen trade
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Application letter
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of highest TVET qualification
- Certified copy of Matric certificate or statement of results
- Relevant trade certificates or statements of results
- Any additional supporting documents relevant to the chosen trade
Employment Equity
Preference may be given to:
- Previously disadvantaged individuals
- Persons living with disabilities
- Female candidates
- Youth from communities surrounding SAFCOL plantations
- Applicants from communities that have social compact agreements with SAFCOL
How to Apply
Interested candidates must prepare an application letter together with all certified supporting documents and submit their application before the closing date.
Official Application Link at SAFCOL
Enquiries
Contact Person: Thinawanga Reliason Ndou
Telephone: 013 754 2900 / 2700
Important Notes
- Late applications may not be considered.
- Ensure all documents are certified, clear and readable.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- If you do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Why Apply?
The SAFCOL Artisan Development Programme offers a valuable pathway into South Africa's engineering and technical sectors. Participants gain professional training, workplace experience, industry exposure and the opportunity to become qualified artisans in high-demand trades. For young people looking to build sustainable careers and develop scarce technical skills, this programme provides an excellent foundation for future employment and growth.
Closing Date: 23 November 2026. Apply early to avoid missing this opportunity.
