UCL Company (Pty) Ltd invites South African unemployed youth to apply for the Technical Apprenticeship Programme 2026.
Apprenticeship Application Closing Date: 27 February 2026
Apprenticeship Location: KwaZulu-Natal Midlands (±50km from Pietermaritzburg)
Training Institution: Shukela Training Centre (STC), Mount Edgecombe
If you are passionate about engineering and technical trades, this three-year apprenticeship offers practical and institutional training in a dynamic agricultural and industrial environment.
About UCL
UCL is a medium-sized company operating in the beautiful KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. The company works in a diverse agricultural environment and is seeking young, dynamic and self-motivated individuals who can work independently.
Available Apprenticeship Fields
Applicants must specify the position they are applying for in the email subject line. Available trades include:
- Boilermaker
- Electrical
- Instrument Mechanical
- Mechanical Fitter
- Millwright
- Fitter and Turner
Apprenticeship Programme Outline
The apprenticeship is a three-year programme that includes:
- Workplace-based practical training
- Institutionalised training at Shukela Training Centre (STC) in Mount Edgecombe
- Approximately 20 weeks of institutional training over three years
- Exposure in various factory sections during operations and annual maintenance periods
- Mini Trade Tests (Phase Tests) at the end of each training year
- A Final Trade Test leading to a nationally recognised qualification
Contracts are fixed-term and subject to renewal based on performance and satisfactory progress.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following:
- Grade 12 with N2 certificate
- Matric with technical subjects
- NCV Level 4
Candidates should be motivated, independent and committed to completing the full apprenticeship programme.
Training & Exposure
Apprentices will gain:
- Experience in sugar and extract factory operations
- Exposure during annual maintenance shut periods
- Practical industrial skills development
- Opportunity to qualify in a nationally recognised trade
How to Apply
Suitably qualified applicants must submit:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copies of academic records
Applications must be sent to:
Human Resources Department
For attention: HR Department
Email: trainingc@ucl.co.za
Important: Clearly state the trade you are applying for in the email subject line.
Closing Date: 27 February 2026
Late applications may not be considered.
Why Apply?
This apprenticeship offers:
- Structured artisan training
- Exposure to industrial and agricultural operations
- Nationally recognised qualification upon successful completion
- Career pathway into engineering trades
If you are ready to build a technical career in engineering, this is your opportunity to apply.