Department of Tourism Professional Cookery Learnership Programme 2025/2026

The Department of Tourism is offering the Professional Cookery Learnership Programme 2025/2026 to provide unemployed South African youth with an opportunity to gain practical experience and formal qualifications in the hospitality and tourism sector. This 12-month programme combines classroom-based learning with hands-on training, enabling learners to develop essential cookery skills, work professionally in a kitchen environment, and prepare for a career in tourism and hospitality.

Participants receive a monthly stipend of R4,600 to support living expenses during the programme, making it ideal for beginners and young people starting their careers.

Programme Overview

Duration: 12 months
Monthly Stipend: R4,600
Location: Provinces including Northern Cape, Gauteng, Eastern Cape, and others across South Africa
Closing Date: 30 September 2025

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Age: Between 18 and 35 years old
Employment Status: Must be unemployed
Education: Minimum requirement of a Matric certificate; fluency in English is required
Additional Advantage: A Tourism or Hospitality qualification will be an advantage
Work Commitment: Willingness to work flexible hours including weekends and public holidays
Documentation: Submission of CV, motivational letter, certified ID, proof of residence, and educational certificates
Previous Participation: Applicants must disclose if they have previously participated in a Department of Tourism learnership or skills programme

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Benefits of the Programme

The Professional Cookery Learnership Programme provides the following benefits:

Monthly Stipend: R4,600 per month to assist with living and transportation expenses
Hands-On Work Experience: Gain practical cookery experience in a professional kitchen environment
Industry-Recognized Skills: Develop skills relevant to careers in tourism and hospitality
Career Development: Enhance employability and prepare for professional cookery or hospitality careers
Networking Opportunities: Build connections with tourism and hospitality industry professionals

Learnership Training Content

During the 12-month learnership, participants will:

Learn professional cooking techniques, food preparation, and presentation
Understand hygiene, health, and safety regulations in a kitchen environment
Gain knowledge of menu planning, costing, and customer service
Participate in practical training sessions under supervision to develop confidence and efficiency
Learn time management and teamwork skills necessary for professional kitchens

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Visit the Official Learnership Page: Access all programme details and application instructions here: Department of Tourism Professional Cookery Learnerships 2025/2026

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents: Make sure you have the following ready:

Certified copy of your South African ID
Proof of residence
Certified copies of your Matric certificate or other qualifications
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Motivational letter explaining your interest in the programme

Step 3: Select Your Province: Decide which province you wish to apply for, such as Northern Cape, Gauteng, or Eastern Cape.

Step 4: Submit Your Application: Follow the instructions on the official page to submit your application form and all required documents. Make sure to include the correct province and submit before the closing date.

Step 5: Confirmation and Follow-Up: You should receive a confirmation email acknowledging your application. Monitor your email for updates regarding shortlisting, assessments, or interviews.

Note: Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, participants receive a monthly stipend of R4,600.

Yes, post-matric qualifications are accepted, provided you meet the other eligibility criteria.

While permanent employment is not guaranteed, successful participants may be considered for job opportunities in the tourism or hospitality sector.

Yes, previous work experience does not disqualify you from applying. The programme is designed for beginners and unemployed youth.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly for assessments or interviews.

Department of Tourism Professional Cookery Learnership Programme 2025/2026 – How to Apply