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 for the duration of the programme
About the SAFCOL Artisan Development Programme
SAFCOL is offering unemployed young people an opportunity to train and develop as artisans through a structured three-year apprenticeship programme.
Successful applicants will be enrolled at a recognised training centre and will complete their workplace training at the Timbadola Sawmill near Louis Trichardt (Makhado).
The programme combines occupational knowledge, practical learning and workplace experience to prepare participants for artisan careers.
Available Artisan Trades
The following trades are available:
- 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 relevant trade theory for the trade being applied for.
Grade 12 is recommended, but it is not a compulsory prerequisite.
Programme Structure
Successful candidates will undergo a three-year artisan development programme consisting of:
- Training at a recognised training centre.
- Occupational knowledge development.
- Practical training.
- Workplace learning.
- On-the-job exposure at Timbadola Sawmill.
After successfully completing the required occupational, practical and workplace learning, apprentices will be required to undergo a final Trade Test.
Successful completion of the Trade Test may lead to certification as a qualified artisan.
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 an application letter together with certified copies of:
- Highest TVET certificate obtained with relevant trade theory.
- Matric certificate or statement of results, where applicable.
- Trade certificates or statements of results.
- Identity document.
- Curriculum Vitae.
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 supporting documents are attached.
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 shared with members of the interview panel for this vacancy only.
- Information submitted will not be used for another position or purpose.
- Successful candidates must be willing to complete the full three-year programme.
- A Trade Test forms part of the artisan qualification process.
- Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Closing Date
20 November 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.