Closing Date: Varies (early 2026, typically March for bursaries, check MQA announcements)
Location: Parktown, Gauteng; Rustenburg, North West; Witbank, Mpumalanga; Polokwane, Limpopo
Programme Types: Learnerships, Bursaries, Internships, Skills Programmes
Start Date: To be confirmed (2025/2026)
Stipend: R3,500–R6,000 per month for learnerships/internships (estimated)
Bursary Value: Up to R80,000 for tuition, books, accommodation (estimated)
Join MQA Skills Development Programmes 2025/2026! Learnerships, bursaries, and internships for unemployed youth in mining and minerals, offering stipends and qualifications. Apply by early 2026!
About MQA Skills Development Programmes
The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) empowers unemployed youth and sector employees by ensuring competent personnel in the mining and minerals sector. Funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training, MQA offers learnerships, bursaries, internships, and skills programmes in fields like Rock Breaking, Mineral Processing, and Mining Engineering, improving health, safety, and employment equity.
Programme Purpose
MQA’s programmes aim to promote work-based skills development, facilitate access to occupationally-directed learning, and ensure quality training to support transformation in the mining sector. By funding learnerships, bursaries, and internships, MQA enhances productivity and community access to economic opportunities.
Programme Structure
| Programme | Qualification | Duration | Eligibility | Funding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Learnerships | NQF Level 2–5 (e.g., Rock Breaking, Diesel Mechanics) | 12–24 months | Grade 12 with Mathematics and Science | R3,500–R6,000/month stipend |
| Bursaries | Undergraduate (e.g., BEng Mining Engineering, Geology) | 1–4 years | Grade 12 with Mathematics and Science, tertiary acceptance | Up to R80,000 (tuition, books, accommodation) |
| Internships | NQF Level 6–8 (e.g., Mining Engineering, Metallurgy) | 12–24 months | Diploma/Degree | R3,500–R6,000/month stipend |
| Skills Programmes | Short courses (e.g., Blasting Certificate, Safety Training) | 1–6 months | Grade 12 with Mathematics and Science | Partial funding, no stipend |
- Components: Theoretical training, practical experience, and assessments.
- Outcome: Nationally recognized NQF qualifications or certificates.
- Delivery: Through MQA-accredited training providers.
Key Responsibilities
Learnerships
- Participate in mining tasks (e.g., rock breaking, equipment maintenance).
- Complete classroom-based training and workplace assessments.
- Adhere to health and safety regulations.
Bursaries
- Maintain academic performance and submit progress reports.
- Engage in mining-related studies or projects.
Internships
- Support mining operations, geological surveys, or safety audits.
- Assist in production, equipment maintenance, or technical support.
- Participate in mentorship and skills development workshops.
Benefits
- Stipends of R3,500–R6,000/month for learnerships and internships.
- Bursaries covering tuition, books, and accommodation (up to R80,000).
- Nationally recognized qualifications (NQF Level 2–8).
- Enhanced employability in the mining and minerals sector.
- Access to mentorship and accredited training providers.
Eligibility Criteria
- South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Aged 18–35 for learnerships and bursaries; no age limit for internships.
- Grade 12 with Mathematics and Science for learnerships and skills programmes; Grade 12 with Mathematics and Science and tertiary acceptance for bursaries; diploma/degree for internships.
- Unemployed or employed in the mining sector (depending on programme).
- No prior participation in the same MQA programme.
- Clear criminal record, verified via background checks.
Preferences
- Candidates from Employment Equity groups (e.g., Black, Coloured, Indian, women, persons with disabilities).
- Residents of Gauteng, North West, Mpumalanga, or Limpopo.
- Commitment to completing the programme and contributing to the sector.
Skills and Attributes
- Strong problem-solving and technical skills.
- Interest in mining and minerals and willingness to learn.
- Physical fitness and safety awareness (learnerships/internships).
- Basic numeracy and computer literacy (all programmes).
- Commitment to health, safety, and industry standards.
Why Join MQA Skills Development Programmes?
MQA Skills Development Programmes 2025/2026 offer unemployed youth and sector professionals a chance to gain nationally recognized qualifications, stipends, or bursary funding in a critical industry. Participants will develop skills in rock breaking, mineral processing, or mining engineering, contributing to South Africa’s mining sector while building rewarding careers.
Application Process
Submit your application by early 2026 (typically March for bursaries, check MQA announcements) via email to info@mqa.org.za or hand-deliver to 7 Anerley Road, Parktown. Postal applications can be sent to Private Bag X118, Marshalltown, 2107. Include a CV, certified copies of your ID, qualifications (Grade 12, diploma/degree, or acceptance letter for bursaries), and proof of residence (certified within the last 6 months). Specify the programme (e.g., Learnership: Rock Breaking, Bursary: BEng Mining Engineering). Incomplete applications or late submissions will not be considered. For enquiries, contact info@mqa.org.za or +27 11 547 2600. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 60–90 days of the closing date. Background checks (criminal record, citizenship, qualifications) will be conducted. If you do not hear back within 90 days, consider your application unsuccessful. No application fees are charged.
Contact Information
For enquiries, contact: info@mqa.org.za or +27 11 547 2600. Physical: 7 Anerley Road, Parktown. Postal: Private Bag X118, Marshalltown, 2107.