South African Forestry Company Limited (SAFCOL) invites unemployed South African youth to apply for the Artisan Development Apprenticeship Programme 2027.
Apprenticeship Application Closing Date: 20 November 2026
Apprenticeship Location: Timbadola Sawmill near Louis Trichardt (Makhado), Limpopo, South Africa
Programme Duration: 3 years
Stipend: Monthly stipend provided
About the SAFCOL Artisan Development Programme
SAFCOL is offering unemployed young people an opportunity to train and develop as qualified artisans through a structured three-year apprenticeship programme.
Successful candidates will be enrolled at a recognised training centre and will complete workplace training at the Timbadola Sawmill near Louis Trichardt in Limpopo.
The programme combines occupational knowledge, practical training and workplace experience.
Available Artisan Trades
The apprenticeship programme is available in the following trades:
- Fitter and Turner
- Millwright
- Electrical
- Diesel Mechanic
- Boilermaking
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Be unemployed.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Have a minimum N2 qualification or Level 3 Technical and Vocational Education and Training certificate.
- Have the relevant trade theory for the trade being applied for.
Grade 12 is recommended but is not a compulsory prerequisite.
Programme Structure
Successful candidates will undergo artisan development training over a period of three years.
The programme will include:
- Occupational knowledge training.
- Practical training.
- Workplace learning.
- Training at a recognised training centre.
- Workplace exposure at the Timbadola Sawmill.
After successful completion of the required occupational knowledge, practical and workplace learning, apprentices will be required to undergo a final summative assessment or Trade Test.
Successful candidates who pass the Trade Test may be certified as qualified artisans.
Preference
During the final selection process, preference will be given to:
- Previously disadvantaged individuals.
- Persons with disabilities.
- Women.
- Young people from communities adjacent to SAFCOL plantations.
- Youth from communities where SAFCOL has signed social compact agreements.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit certified copies of:
- Highest TVET certificate obtained with the relevant trade theory.
- Matric certificate or statement of results, where applicable.
- Trade certificates or statements of results.
- South African ID.
- Curriculum Vitae.
Applicants must also include an application letter.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by email to:
Email: apprenticeship@safcol.co.za
Click here to apply for SAFCOL Artisan Development Apprenticeships 2027
Applicants should ensure that all required certified documents are attached to the application.
Enquiries
For enquiries, contact:
Thinawanga Reliason Ndou
Telephone: 013 754 2900 / 2700
Important Application Information
Applicants should note that:
- Their CV and personal information may be circulated to members of the interview panel for this vacancy only.
- Information submitted will not be used for other positions or purposes.
- Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
- Successful apprentices will be required to complete the full three-year training programme.
- A Trade Test will form part of the qualification process.
Closing Date
20 November 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.