UCL invites unemployed South African youth to apply for the Technical Apprenticeship Programme 2026 in KwaZulu-Natal.
Apprenticeship Application Closing Date: 01 September 2026
Apprenticeship Location: KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, approximately 50km from Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
UCL Technical Apprenticeship Programme 2026
UCL is offering a three-year Technical Apprenticeship Programme aimed at young, dynamic and self-motivated individuals interested in building careers in technical and engineering trades.
The programme combines workplace experience with institutional training and provides exposure to different factory sections during normal operations and annual shutdown maintenance periods.
Available Apprenticeship Trades
Applicants can apply for the following apprenticeship opportunities:
- Boilermaker
- Electrical
- Instrument Mechanical
- Mechanical Fitter
- Millwright
- Fitter and Turner
Minimum Requirements
Applicants should have one of the following:
- Grade 12 with an N2 Certificate.
- Matric with technical subjects.
- NCV Level 4.
Candidates should also be able to work independently and demonstrate motivation and commitment to completing the training programme.
Apprenticeship Duration and Training
The apprenticeship programme runs for:
3 years
Training consists of both workplace and institutional learning.
Institutional training will take place at the:
Shukela Training Centre (STC), Mount Edgecombe
The institutional training component will run for approximately 20 weeks over the three-year period.
Apprentices will also gain practical exposure in different factory sections during operations and annual shutdown maintenance periods.
Assessment and Trade Testing
At the end of each year of training, apprentices will undergo a:
Mini Trade Test / Phase Test
Continued participation in the programme will depend on satisfactory performance and progress.
After completing the programme, candidates will undergo a final Trade Test.
Successful completion will lead to a nationally recognised qualification.
Contract Conditions
The apprenticeship contracts are fixed-term in nature.
Renewal will depend on:
- Satisfactory progress.
- Performance.
- UCL’s discretion.
Applicants should therefore be prepared to maintain good performance throughout the training period.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Updated CV.
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Academic records.
How to Apply for UCL Technical Apprenticeships 2026
Applications must be submitted by email to the Human Resources Department.
Email: trainingc@ucl.co.za
Applicants must clearly specify the apprenticeship trade they are applying for in the email subject line.
For example:
Boilermaker Apprenticeship
or
Electrical Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship Application Closing Date
Applications close on:
01 September 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline.
Important Application Notes
The programme runs for three years and includes both institutional and workplace training.
Successful completion of the final Trade Test will lead to a nationally recognised trade qualification.
Applicants must ensure that the correct apprenticeship position is stated in the email subject line and that all required supporting documents are attached.