SETA-Accredited ICAN Learnerships 2026 Bring New Hope for Unemployed South African Youth
For many young South Africans, finding work after school is not just difficult — it feels impossible. Even those willing to start at entry level are often blocked by one thing they cannot control: lack of experience. With youth unemployment still one of the country’s most pressing challenges, practical skills programmes have become a lifeline rather than a luxury.
This is where the SETA-accredited ICAN Learnerships 2026 come in. The programme has officially opened applications, offering unemployed youth and adults a structured 12-month learnership that combines workplace experience, accredited training, and a monthly stipend. For many applicants, it represents a realistic path into the job market rather than another closed door.
What Are ICAN Learnerships 2026 and Why They Matter
The ICAN Learnerships 2026 are SETA-accredited training programmes designed to help individuals gain practical, job-ready skills in sectors where entry-level opportunities still exist. Unlike short courses or informal training, these learnerships are aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and are recognised by employers across South Africa.
Each learnership runs for 12 months and combines classroom learning with real workplace exposure. Participants receive a monthly stipend of approximately R5,000, allowing them to focus on learning without the pressure of daily survival costs like transport and food.
In a labour market where employers increasingly demand both skills and experience, ICAN’s model addresses both at the same time.
Who Can Apply for SETA-Accredited ICAN Learnerships 2026
One of the strengths of the ICAN Learnerships is accessibility. The programme is not limited to university graduates and is open to individuals who may not have completed Matric.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following:
- Completed ABET (Adult Basic Education and Training), or
- Have at least a Grade 10 qualification
Some learnership streams may require learners to complete Grade 12 by the end of the programme, depending on the qualification level.
Age and Employment Status
- Applicants must be 16 to 35 years old
- Unemployed youth and long-term unemployed adults are prioritised
This makes the programme particularly relevant for school leavers, early job seekers, and those who have struggled to re-enter the workforce.
Available ICAN Academy Learnership Programmes for 2026
ICAN places an average of 600 learners per year across various accredited programmes. The 2026 intake includes the following learnerships:
Domestic Services
- NQF Level 1
- No minimum qualification required
- Basic literacy required
Hygiene and Cleaning
- NQF Level 1
- ABET Level 2 communication and mathematical literacy
Business Practice
- NQF Level 1
- Minimum Grade 10
- ABET Level 3 communication and maths literacy
Business Administration
- NQF Level 2
- Minimum Grade 12
- Communication and mathematical literacy at NQF Level 1
These programmes are structured to prepare learners for real entry-level roles that exist in the South African economy, rather than theoretical positions with limited demand.
USEFUL LINKS
What Learners Gain Beyond the Monthly Stipend
While the stipend provides short-term relief, the long-term value of ICAN Learnerships lies in what learners walk away with after 12 months.
Participants gain:
- A nationally recognised SETA qualification
- Practical workplace experience
- Improved employability and confidence
- Exposure to professional work environments
- References and industry-relevant skills
For many learners, this becomes the first credible line on their CV — something employers consistently look for but many young people struggle to obtain.
How to Apply for ICAN Learnerships 2026
Applications for SETA-accredited ICAN Learnerships 2026 are completed online only. ICAN has made it clear that applications sent via email will not be considered.
Important Notes
- 📧 The email address info@ican-sa.co.za is for enquiries only
- ❌ Do not submit applications via email
Applicants are advised to prepare certified copies of their ID and highest qualification before starting the online process, as incomplete submissions may not be processed.
Why Learnerships Remain Critical in South Africa
In a country where formal jobs are scarce, learnerships remain one of the few structured bridges between education and employment. They offer dignity, routine, income support, and skills — all at once.
Programmes like ICAN’s are particularly important because they:
- Do not require university access
- Are aligned with real labour market needs
- Offer formal accreditation, not informal certificates
- Support learners financially during training
For many families, one successful learnership can change the trajectory of an entire household.
Frequently Asked Questions About ICAN Learnerships 2026
Are ICAN Learnerships paid?
Yes. Learners receive a monthly stipend of around R5,000 for the duration of the programme.
Do I need Matric to apply?
No. Some programmes accept applicants with Grade 10 or ABET qualifications.
How long does the learnership last?
Most ICAN learnerships run for 12 months.
Is employment guaranteed after completion?
Employment is not guaranteed, but learners significantly improve their chances of finding work.
Can I apply if I have never worked before?
Yes. These learnerships are designed for entry-level and unemployed applicants.
Final Thoughts: A Practical Step Forward in 2026
The SETA-accredited ICAN Learnerships 2026 are not a quick fix for unemployment, but they are a realistic step forward for people who are ready to learn and work. In an economy where opportunities are limited, structured programmes like this remain one of the most reliable ways to gain experience, income, and recognised skills at the same time.
For those who qualify and apply on time, 2026 could mark the beginning of a more stable and independent future.
I writes about SETA opportunities in South Africa, focusing on learnerships, internships, bursaries, and skills development programs. My goal is to provide clear, reliable information that helps students and job seekers access funded career opportunities.
