The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), in partnership with We Invest Africa, has opened applications for the Labour Activation Programme (LAP) for 2025–2026. This programme is designed to give unemployed South Africans access to accredited learnerships and short skills programmes that build employability, support entrepreneurship, and create pathways to sustainable careers.
South Africa continues to face high levels of unemployment, particularly among young people. The UIF Labour Activation Programme directly addresses this challenge by providing fully funded opportunities that combine classroom training, practical exposure, and industry-recognised qualifications.
What the Programme Offers
The programme is not just about short-term training. It provides:
- Accredited learning opportunities through both full learnerships and shorter skills programmes.
- Nationally recognised qualifications at NQF Level 2 and 3, helping participants enter or re-enter the job market with competitive credentials.
- Practical and theoretical training in fields like agriculture, business, and technical trades, so learners gain real-world skills.
- Entrepreneurship development, allowing participants to create their own employment opportunities through small businesses.
- In some cases, stipend support during training to help learners meet basic needs while completing the programme.
This makes the UIF LAP a holistic approach to skills development, aiming to empower unemployed individuals and reduce dependency on grants or short-term employment.
Learnerships Available (NQF Accredited)
The learnerships lead to full national certificate qualifications, and cover key economic areas such as:
- Mixed Farming Systems (NQF Level 2): Training across crop and livestock systems.
- Plant Production (NQF Level 3): Skills in crop cultivation, farm management, and agricultural technology.
- Animal Production (NQF Level 2): Basics of caring for and managing livestock.
- Horticulture (NQF Level 2): Training in plant care, landscaping, and nursery management.
- Poultry Production (NQF Level 2): Focused training in poultry farming operations.
- Business Practice (NQF Level 2): Skills in administration, workplace readiness, and organisational communication.
- New Venture Creation (NQF Level 2): Designed to support entrepreneurship and starting small businesses.
These learnerships not only provide technical skills but also improve long-term employability.
Skills Programmes Available
For those who want shorter, focused training, the UIF LAP also offers skills programmes. These include:
- Entrepreneurship Skills: Practical knowledge for starting and running small businesses.
- Plant and Animal Production Basics: Short courses in agriculture for entry-level farming skills.
- Poultry Handling and Management: Focused training in poultry industry operations.
- Horticulture Practices: Training in landscaping and plant care.
- Professional Driving: Equipping learners with professional driving skills and workplace readiness.
- Business Administration: Office support and clerical skills.
- Computer Literacy: Essential IT and workplace computer skills.
These shorter programmes are ideal for those who want to quickly improve their employability.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be South African citizens with a valid ID.
- Be unemployed at the time of application.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Have completed at least Grade 10 (NQF Level 2) or higher.
- Not currently be enrolled in or receiving a stipend from another government learnership or training programme.
These requirements ensure the programme benefits the intended group: unemployed youth who need opportunities the most.
Required Application Documents
To be considered, applicants must provide:
- A completed application form (available from the training academy).
- A certified copy of South African ID.
- A certified copy of highest qualification (Grade 10 or higher).
- An updated CV with personal and contact details.
- Proof of residence (not older than 3 months).
Incomplete applications or uncertified documents will not be accepted.
Selection Process and Assessments
The process involves several steps:
- Screening: Applications checked for eligibility and completeness.
- Verification: All documents (ID, qualification, proof of residence) verified for authenticity.
- Shortlisting: Candidates who meet the requirements are shortlisted.
- Assessments/Interviews: Some programmes may include interviews or basic competency tests.
- Final Selection: Successful applicants are confirmed and enrolled.
This structured process ensures transparency and fairness.
Disqualification Conditions
Applications may be disqualified if:
- Documents are incomplete or not certified.
- Applicants are older than 35 years on the start date.
- Applicants are already enrolled in another government-funded programme.
- False or misleading information is provided.
These measures protect the integrity of the programme and ensure fair access.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted in person at:
We Invest Africa Training Academy
43 Voortrekker Avenue
Edenvale
Johannesburg, 1609
Closing Date: 30 September 2025 at 16:00
Late applications and emailed submissions will not be considered.
Why You Should Apply
The UIF Labour Activation Programme with We Invest Africa provides more than just a certificate. It offers:
- Free access to accredited qualifications in agriculture, business, and technical trades.
- Skills that match labour market demand, improving employability.
- Entrepreneurship knowledge for starting small businesses.
- Workplace discipline and exposure, bridging the gap between unemployment and employment.
- A chance to become self-reliant and contribute to South Africa’s economic growth.
For young, unemployed South Africans, this is a life-changing opportunity to build a career path and secure a better future.
Important Notice on Fraud
UIF and We Invest Africa will never request money or personal details outside official application channels. All applications must be submitted directly to the training academy at the address provided. Beware of fake job posts or learnership scams.