MerSETA Funded Work Integrated Learning Programme 2026: Programme Overview, Requirements, and More

A range of MerSETA-funded Work Integrated Learning and apprenticeship-aligned training opportunities is currently available through Resolution Circle. The programme is designed to support aspiring artisans and technical learners who require structured workplace exposure to complete their qualifications and strengthen their employability in scarce-skill trades.

Unlike single-discipline initiatives, this programme spans multiple technical fields, allowing learners to gain practical experience across key trades that remain in demand within South Africa’s industrial and manufacturing sectors. The initiative aligns with national skills development priorities and focuses on building real workplace competence rather than short-term outcomes.

Understanding Work Integrated Learning in Artisan Development

What Work Integrated Learning Means in Practice

Work Integrated Learning, commonly referred to as WIL, is a structured form of workplace-based training that enables learners to apply theoretical knowledge in real working environments. Within artisan and technical qualifications, WIL is a critical component that bridges the gap between classroom learning and industry practice.

For many occupational pathways, WIL is either a formal requirement for qualification completion or an essential step toward apprenticeship progression. Learners are placed in supervised environments where they work with industry-standard tools, equipment, and processes while developing practical competence.

Why WIL Is Essential for Trade and Technical Careers

In technical and artisan fields, employability depends heavily on demonstrated practical ability. Work Integrated Learning supports this by helping learners:

• Translate theoretical knowledge into practical skills
• Understand workplace safety, quality, and compliance standards
• Develop problem-solving, communication, and teamwork abilities
• Prepare for trade testing or further occupational training

These elements are essential for learners aiming to progress into sustainable technical careers.

MerSETA’s Role in Supporting Skills Development

How MerSETA Funding Supports Learners

The Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority plays a central role in funding skills development initiatives across manufacturing and engineering-related sectors. Through mechanisms such as Work Integrated Learning, MerSETA contributes to addressing skills shortages while improving access to structured, accredited training.

MerSETA-funded programmes are structured to:

• Support the development of scarce and critical skills
• Improve youth employability through practical exposure
• Maintain quality standards through accredited providers

The programmes offered at Resolution Circle are aligned with these objectives, providing learners with credible pathways into technical and artisan careers.

Discover New Internships and Learnership Programs Below

• Apprenticeships
• Blog
• Bursaries
• Government Vacancies
• Internships SA
• Learnerships
• Uncategorized
• Yes Programme

About Resolution Circle

A Multi-Trade Technical Training Provider

Resolution Circle is a South African technical training provider specialising in occupational and workplace-based learning. Its programmes are aligned with QCTO accreditation requirements, industry standards, and national skills development frameworks.

The organisation’s training approach focuses on:

• Hands-on, practical learning
• Supervised workplace exposure
• Trade-specific outcomes and competencies
• Ethical and transparent learner support

This model ensures that learners develop measurable skills that are relevant to their chosen trade.

Trades and Programmes Covered

Electrical Apprenticeship and WIL Pathways

Electrical training at Resolution Circle exposes learners to electrical installations, industrial systems, basic fault finding, testing procedures, and workplace safety compliance. This pathway supports learners working toward electrician trade qualifications.

Mechanical, Fitting and Turning Pathways

Mechanical-focused training includes fitting and turning practices, machining fundamentals, use of workshop tools, and preventative maintenance principles. These skills are widely used across manufacturing, engineering, and industrial maintenance environments.

Boilermaking and Welding Training

Fabrication-related programmes focus on boilermaking processes, welding techniques, metal fabrication, and the interpretation of technical drawings. These trades remain essential within infrastructure development, mining, and manufacturing sectors.

Millwright Training Opportunities

Millwright training combines mechanical and electrical competencies. Learners gain exposure to machinery installation, fault finding, preventative maintenance, and industrial safety practices. Millwrights play a key role in maintaining production continuity in industrial operations.

Plumbing and Instrument Mechanician Training

Additional pathways include plumbing systems installation and maintenance, as well as instrument mechanician training focused on control systems and measurement. These programmes support technical careers beyond traditional engineering roles.

Programme Duration and Structure

How Long the Programmes Run

Programme duration varies depending on the trade and qualification level. Apprenticeships typically range between 36 and 40 months, while Work Integrated Learning components may span several months based on qualification requirements.

Learners participate in structured, supervised workplace exposure and are required to complete trade-relevant tasks aligned with their training outcomes.

What Learners Can Expect

Participants can expect supervised practical training, trade-specific skills development, and exposure aligned with QCTO and MerSETA frameworks. The focus remains on competence development rather than employment guarantees.

Who Should Apply

Suitable Candidates

These programmes are suited to TVET college graduates, learners who have completed theoretical training, individuals seeking practical trade exposure, and aspiring artisans pursuing formal qualification pathways. Applicants are encouraged to ensure that their chosen trade aligns with their academic background and long-term career goals.

Application Details and Closing Information

The closing date has not been formally announced, and applications will remain open until available training spaces are filled. Due to limited capacity, early application is advised.

Applications must be submitted through the official Resolution Circle website at www.resolutioncircle.co.za

Applicants are encouraged to verify programme requirements directly with the training provider before applying.

Career Value of the Programme in 2026

Addressing Artisan Skills Shortages

South Africa continues to experience shortages in critical artisan trades. MerSETA-funded Work Integrated Learning and apprenticeship programmes play an important role in addressing these gaps by supporting structured training aligned with industry needs.

Supporting Long-Term Employability

By prioritising workplace competence and qualification progression, these programmes support long-term employability rather than short-term outcomes. Learners gain experience that is directly relevant to industrial environments and future career advancement.

Conclusion

The MerSETA Funded Work Integrated Learning Programme available through Resolution Circle provides learners with access to structured, multi-trade technical training pathways. Covering electrical, mechanical, fabrication, maintenance, and process-related trades, the programme combines workplace exposure with nationally supported funding to strengthen artisan development.

For learners seeking credible, practical training opportunities in 2026, Resolution Circle’s programmes offer a solid foundation for building sustainable technical careers aligned with South Africa’s skills development priorities.