The Tsolo Agriculture and Rural Development Institute (TARDI), in partnership with the Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA), is inviting applications from suitably qualified and unemployed South African youth for the Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship Programme 2026.
This 36-month artisan development programme forms part of South Africa’s efforts to address scarce and critical skills while creating employment opportunities for young people interested in mechanical engineering, diesel mechanic training, heavy equipment maintenance, and technical trades. The programme offers successful candidates the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification, workplace experience, and trade test preparation that can lead to long-term employment within the automotive, transport, mining, agriculture, and engineering sectors.
This is an excellent opportunity for TVET College graduates, N2 Engineering graduates, and individuals seeking artisan jobs in South Africa to develop valuable technical skills while participating in a SETA-funded training programme.
Programme Details
| Programme Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Qualification | Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic |
| Qualification ID | 117237 |
| NQF Level | 4 |
| Credits | 544 |
| Duration | 36 Months |
| Number of Apprentices | 25 |
| Monthly Stipend | R3,000 per month |
The monthly stipend is subject to attendance requirements, programme performance, and applicable SETA conditions.
Apprenticeship Programme Structure
The Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship Programme consists of three structured phases designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical industry experience:
- Phase 1: Institutional theoretical and practical training (6 Months)
- Phase 2: Workplace experiential training (24 Months)
- Phase 3: Trade Test preparation and assessment (6 Months)
This structured learning pathway ensures that apprentices acquire the skills, knowledge, and workplace competencies required to qualify as professional diesel mechanics.
Training Venue
Applicants should note that the institutional training component will not take place at the Tsolo Campus in the Eastern Cape.
Institutional Training Centre:
Try Easy Electrical Solutions
181 Immelman Road, Unit 3
Wadeville
Johannesburg
Gauteng Province
Subject to final QCTO approval.
Applicants must be willing and able to relocate to Gauteng during the institutional training phase of the programme.
Why Apply for This Apprenticeship?
A Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship offers valuable opportunities for career growth in South Africa’s engineering and technical sectors.
Benefits include:
- Nationally recognised artisan qualification
- Practical workplace experience
- Trade Test preparation and assessment
- Monthly stipend during training
- Industry-relevant technical skills development
- Exposure to heavy machinery and diesel engine maintenance
- Increased employment opportunities after qualification
- Career pathways in mining, logistics, transport, construction, manufacturing, and agriculture
Qualified diesel mechanics remain in high demand across various industries, making this apprenticeship an excellent stepping stone toward a sustainable career.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 33 years old
- Be currently unemployed
- Provide an affidavit as proof of unemployment
- Possess an N2 qualification or higher in:
- Diesel Mechanic
- Mechanical Engineering
- Motor Mechanics
- Related Engineering Studies
- Have passed:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science or Physical Science
Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection.
Preference Will Be Given To
Preference will be given to:
- Youth from the Eastern Cape Province (proof of locality required)
- TVET College graduates
- Female applicants
- Persons living with disabilities
These preference categories support skills development, transformation, and increased participation in artisan training programmes.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
- A strong interest in diesel mechanics and artisan development
- Technical aptitude and willingness to learn
- Good problem-solving and analytical skills
- Commitment, discipline, and professionalism
- Ability to work independently and within a team
- Willingness to work in workshop and industrial environments
- Readiness to relocate for training purposes
- Dedication to completing the full apprenticeship programme
Candidates who are passionate about mechanical engineering careers and technical trades are strongly encouraged to apply.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit a complete application package containing the following documents:
- Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID document
- Affidavit confirming unemployment status
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified academic transcripts or statements of results
- Proof of residence
- Motivational letter explaining interest in the apprenticeship programme
- Proof of disability (where applicable)
- Driver’s licence (if available)
- Additional supporting certificates
Applications that are incomplete or missing supporting documents may not be considered.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should prepare and submit all required documentation before the closing date.
Before You Submit Your Application
Ensure that you have included:
- Comprehensive CV
- Certified South African ID copy
- Affidavit confirming unemployment
- Certified qualifications
- Academic transcripts or results
- Proof of residence
- Motivational letter
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
- Driver’s licence (if available)
- Additional supporting certificates
Application Tips
To improve your chances of being shortlisted:
- Submit a professional and updated CV
- Ensure all copies are properly certified
- Clearly explain your interest in diesel mechanic training in your motivational letter
- Include all required supporting documents
- Double-check your application before submission
- Submit your application as early as possible
Due to the limited number of available apprenticeship positions, only applicants who meet the minimum requirements and submit complete applications will be considered for further assessment and selection.
