The CHIETA Skills Development Programmes 2026 are opening doors for young people who want to build real careers in the chemical and engineering industries.
If you are serious about gaining practical skills, earning a recognised qualification, and improving your chances of employment, this opportunity is worth your attention.
Offered by the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority, these programmes are designed to support both unemployed youth and workers already in the chemical sector.
What Is the CHIETA Skills Development Programme?
The CHIETA programme focuses on developing skills that are in demand across the chemical industry.
It combines:
- Classroom learning
- Practical workplace experience
This means you do not just study theory. You gain real, hands-on experience in environments such as laboratories and chemical plants.
Training areas include:
- Chemical Operations
- Process Control
- Chemical Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
Types of Opportunities Available
There are several options depending on your qualifications and career goals.
Learnerships
Learnerships are ideal if you have Grade 12 and want to gain workplace experience.
- Duration: 12 to 18 months
- Monthly stipend: R2,500 to R4,500
- Focus: Practical training in chemical plant operations
This is one of the best entry points into the industry.
Bursaries
Bursaries support students who want to study further.
- Funding: Up to R90,000
- Covers: Tuition, books, and accommodation
- Fields: Chemical Engineering or Chemistry
To qualify, you must:
- Have Grade 12 with Mathematics and Science
- Be accepted at a tertiary institution
Internships
Internships are designed for graduates.
- Duration: 12 to 24 months
- Monthly stipend: R2,500 to R4,500
- Focus: Real work experience in labs or chemical plants
This helps you move from theory into professional work.
Skills Programmes
These are short courses for quick skills development.
- Duration: 1 to 6 months
- Areas: Welding, safety, and plant operations
- Funding: Partial (no stipend)
These programmes are useful if you want to upgrade specific skills quickly.
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Who Can Apply?
To qualify, you must meet the following:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 35 years old (for learnerships and bursaries)
- Hold the required qualifications for your chosen programme
- Be unemployed or working in the chemical sector
- Have a clean criminal record
- Not have participated in the same CHIETA programme before
Preference is given to candidates from:
- Employment equity groups
- Provinces like Gauteng, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal
Why You Should Apply
This programme is more than just training.
You will gain:
- Recognised qualifications
- Practical workplace experience
- Industry-relevant skills
- Exposure to accredited training providers
Most importantly, it improves your chances of getting a job in a competitive industry.
How to Apply for CHIETA 2026
To apply, you need to submit your application before the deadline.
Where to Send Your Application
- Email: info@chieta.org.za
- Hand delivery: 72 New Road, Glen Austin AH (Grand Central), Midrand, 1685
- Postal: Same address
Documents Required
Make sure your application includes:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Proof of residence (not older than 6 months)
- Acceptance letter (for bursary applicants)
You must also clearly state the programme you are applying for.
Important Notes
- Incomplete applications will not be accepted
- Late submissions will be rejected
- Shortlisted candidates are contacted within 60 to 90 days
- If you do not hear back within 90 days, consider your application unsuccessful
- There are no application fees
Contact Details
- Email: info@chieta.org.za
- Phone: +27 11 628 7000 / +27 87 357 6608
- Address: 72 New Road, Glen Austin AH (Grand Central), Midrand, 1685
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are usually submitted in early 2026, with bursaries often closing around February.
Can I apply without Mathematics and Science?
Most programmes require Mathematics and Science, especially for technical fields.
Do all programmes offer a stipend?
No. Learnerships and internships offer stipends, but skills programmes usually do not.
Can graduates apply?
Yes. Graduates can apply for internships.
Final Thoughts
The CHIETA Skills Development Programmes 2026 offer a real opportunity to build a future in the chemical industry.
If you meet the requirements, do not wait until the last minute. Prepare your documents early and apply on time.
For many young South Africans, this programme is not just training. It is the first step into a stable and rewarding career.