UIF Labour Activation Programme (LAP) & We Invest Africa Learnerships and Skills Programs 2025/2026

The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), in collaboration with We Invest Africa (Pty) Ltd, is offering an exciting Labour Activation Programme (LAP) for the 2025/2026 period. This initiative provides unemployed South Africans with structured learnerships and skills programs that combine practical, hands-on training with formal qualifications. The programme aims to improve participants’ employability, equip them with relevant skills, and create opportunities for entrepreneurship and self-employment.

The LAP is suitable for beginners, youth with limited work experience, and individuals who want to gain professional qualifications in high-demand sectors.

What the Programme Offers

The UIF LAP & We Invest Africa Learnerships provide the following benefits:

Structured Learnerships: Participants receive a mix of classroom-based theoretical knowledge and practical, on-the-job experience to ensure they gain comprehensive skills.
Nationally Recognized Qualifications: All learnerships are accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), giving participants credentials that are recognized by employers across the country.
Skill Development in High-Demand Sectors: The programme focuses on areas such as agriculture, construction, ICT, entrepreneurship, environmental practices, and more.
Stipend Support: Participants receive a monthly allowance to assist with living and transport expenses while completing the programme.
Mentorship: Experienced industry professionals guide participants, providing advice, feedback, and support throughout the learnership.
Employment and Entrepreneurship Opportunities: Completing the programme increases your chances of finding employment or starting your own business.

Learnership and Skills Programmes Available

Participants can choose from the following learnerships and skills programs:

Learnerships (12-month full-time programs)

National Certificate: Mixed Farming Systems – NQF Level 2
National Certificate: Plant Production – NQF Level 3
National Certificate: Landscaping – NQF Level 2
National Certificate: Animal Production – NQF Level 2
National Certificate: Construction Roadworks – NQF Level 3
National Certificate: Building Health and Safety – NQF Level 3
National Certificate: Building a Community House – NQF Level 2
National Certificate: Process Control for Water and Wastewater – NQF Level 3

Skills Programs (Short-term training)

Entrepreneurship and business management
Professional driving
Poultry and horticultural farming
Construction Health and Safety
Plumbing and bricklaying
Environmental practices
Hygiene and cleaning
Customer service
Plastering and finishing
End-user computing
Solar installation

These programs provide practical skills that can be used to gain employment or start small businesses, especially in sectors that are currently in high demand.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in the UIF LAP & We Invest Africa programs, applicants must:

Be a South African citizen with a valid ID
Be currently unemployed
Be between 18 and 55 years of age
Have at least a Grade 10 qualification
Demonstrate an interest in the chosen field (priority is given to construction and building sectors)
Not be currently enrolled in another learnership or skills programme

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

Certified copy of your South African ID
Certified copies of academic qualifications (Grade 10 or higher)
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Proof of residential address
Proof of unemployment status
Motivation letter explaining your interest in the programme and career goals

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Visit the Official UIF LAP & We Invest Africa Page: Go to the official application page for the programme: UIF LAP & We Invest Africa Learnerships

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required documents including your ID, academic certificates, CV, proof of residence, proof of unemployment, and motivation letter.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form: Download the application form from the official page and fill it out accurately.

Step 4: Submit Your Application: Submit your completed application and all documents via the contact details provided on the official page.

Step 5: Confirmation: After submitting your application, you should receive a confirmation email or notice acknowledging receipt.

Step 6: Monitor Your Email: Check your inbox regularly for updates on shortlisting, assessments, or further instructions.

Note: Applications submitted after the closing date will not be considered.

Closing Date

All applications must be submitted by 30 September 2025. Ensure your application is complete and submitted before this date.

Benefits of the Programme

Work Experience: Gain hands-on experience in your chosen field, improving your employability.
National Qualifications: Earn a SAQA-accredited certificate that is recognized nationally.
Mentorship: Receive guidance from industry professionals.
Stipend Support: Monthly financial support helps with transport and living expenses.
Career and Business Opportunities: Successful participants can find employment or start their own business using the skills acquired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, participants receive a monthly stipend to assist with living and transport costs during the programme.

Yes, applicants with post-matric qualifications are eligible as long as they meet the other criteria.

While permanent employment is not guaranteed, successful participants may be considered for job opportunities after completion.

Yes, applicants with or without work experience can apply. The programme is designed for beginners and unemployed youth.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly for assessments or interviews.

UIF Labour Activation Programme (LAP) & We Invest Africa Learnerships and Skills Programs 2025/2026 – How to Apply