OHS Skills Development Programme 2026 – 3,850 Paid Learning Posts

Meta Description: Applications are open for the OHS Skills Development Programme 2026. 3,850 South African graduates in engineering, health, and environmental sciences can earn R7,860.50 monthly. Apply online at SA Youth before 21 Nov 2025.

OHS Training Academy 2026: Preparing South Africa’s Future Safety Professionals

South Africa is strengthening workplace safety and youth empowerment through the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Training Academy Learning Programme 2026. This national initiative provides practical skills and hands-on training for unemployed graduates, preparing them for careers in one of the country’s most critical fields.

Supported by the Department of Employment and Labour, this programme plays a vital role in implementing the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993) across industries.

A total of 3,850 learners will be recruited nationwide, each receiving a monthly stipend of R7,860.50. Participants will gain valuable experience in workplace inspections, compliance management, and risk prevention.

What Is the OHS Learning Programme?

The OHS Training Academy Learning Programme is a structured, workplace-based development opportunity for young South Africans with relevant qualifications. The programme bridges the gap between academic learning and professional experience, offering graduates hands-on exposure in:

• Workplace inspections and safety audits
• Compliance monitoring and incident investigations
• Promoting safety awareness campaigns
• Enforcing occupational health and safety standards

Learners are mentored by professional OHS inspectors, equipping them with both technical and managerial skills required in the field.

Programme Highlights

Available Positions by Province

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Be South African citizens aged 18–35
• Be unemployed and not currently studying
• Hold a three-year tertiary qualification (National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree) in one of the following fields:
  • Environmental Health / Environmental Science
  • Occupational Health / Industrial Hygiene / Analytical Chemistry
  • Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Construction, Mining, or Industrial Engineering
  • Mechatronics, Explosives Engineering / Management, Chemistry, or Safety Management
• Have strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills
• Demonstrate a passion for creating safer workplaces

Key Responsibilities

Participants will gain hands-on experience in:

• Supporting workplace inspections and ensuring compliance with OHS regulations
• Assisting in incident reports, data collection, and document management
• Conducting safety audits and participating in investigations
• Promoting health and safety awareness through campaigns and workshops
• Maintaining accurate and confidential records

This combination of fieldwork and administrative tasks prepares graduates for long-term careers in occupational health, environmental management, and compliance.

How to Apply

1. Visit the SA Youth portal: https://sayouth.mobi/Home/Index/EN
2. Log in or create a free profile
3. Search for “Project 20K”
4. Select the relevant province-specific OHS opportunity
5. Complete the online application form and upload all required documents
6. Review and submit your application

⚠️ Note: Only online applications via SA Youth will be accepted. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Why the OHS Programme Matters

Workplace safety is essential for economic growth, employee wellbeing, and productivity. The OHS Learning Programme empowers graduates to reduce workplace hazards and ensure regulatory compliance.

The initiative also aligns with South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) by:

• Addressing the skills shortage in occupational health and safety
• Providing employment opportunities for young graduates
• Enhancing industry compliance across construction, mining, manufacturing, and other sectors

Expert Perspective: Building the Next Generation of Safety Leaders

Industry experts stress the need for trained OHS professionals to handle challenges such as automation, chemical exposure, and sustainability.

The OHS Training Academy ensures graduates gain:

• Mentorship from senior inspectors
• On-site practical training
• Policy and regulation education

This combination equips learners to enter the workforce as competent and compliant safety professionals.

Programme Benefits

Participants receive:

• Monthly stipend: R7,860.50
• Professional training: Hands-on mentorship
• Career development: Skills for public and private sector employment
• National exposure: Work across multiple provinces and industries
• Government-recognized experience: Certification to strengthen your CV

Important Dates and Contact Information

• Application Deadline: 21 November 2025
• Walk-in Submissions: Close at 16:00
• Online Submissions: Close at Midnight
• Application Portal: https://sayouth.mobi/Home/Index/EN
• Contact Centre: 0800 727 272

Useful Links

• Learnerships Programme
• Internships Programme
• Funding & Bursaries
• Youth Opportunities
• Learning Programmes 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply?
   Unemployed South African youth with relevant diplomas or degrees.
2. Do I need work experience?
   No, this is a training programme for graduates.
3. Will I earn a stipend?
   Yes, R7,860.50 per month.
4. Can I apply if still studying?
   No, applicants must be available full-time.
5. Where will training take place?
   At provincial offices and field sites under qualified OHS inspectors.
6. Is this programme offered annually?
   Yes, subject to funding availability.
7. Duration of learning programme?
   As per the appointment letter; typically fixed-term.
8. Can international applicants apply?
   No, only South African citizens with IDs.
9. Required documents?
   ID, qualifications, CV, proof of residence.
10. Notification of successful candidates?
    Shortlisted applicants are contacted via SA Youth after the closing date.

Final Thoughts: Build a Safer and Brighter Future

The OHS Training Academy Learning Programme 2026 is more than a learning opportunity — it’s a career-launching step for South African graduates. With nearly 4,000 paid posts, the programme offers financial support and practical experience that enhance employability across industries.

By participating, learners help create safer workplaces while gaining in-demand skills for long-term careers in occupational safety, environmental health, and compliance management.

Apply today via SA Youth before 21 November 2025 and take the first step toward a safer, more sustainable South Africa.