MerSETA Bursary 2026, Requirements and Application

MerSETA Funded Work Integrated Learning and Apprenticeships at Resolution Circle (2026)

Manufacturing and engineering are at the core of South Africa’s economy. Without these sectors, everyday items such as vehicles, electrical systems, machinery, and industrial infrastructure would not exist. To keep these industries growing, South Africa needs skilled artisans and technicians.

In 2026, MerSETA-funded Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and apprenticeship-aligned programmes at Resolution Circle offer learners practical workplace exposure across multiple scarce-skill trades. These programmes help bridge the gap between theory and real-world experience.

Understanding Work Integrated Learning (WIL)

What Is Work Integrated Learning?

Work Integrated Learning is a structured form of workplace-based training. It allows learners to apply what they have studied in real industrial environments under supervision.

For artisan and technical qualifications, WIL is often:

• A formal requirement for qualification completion
• A pathway into apprenticeships
• A key factor in improving employability

Learners gain hands-on experience using industry-standard tools, equipment, and processes.

Why Work Integrated Learning Is Important

For technical and trade careers, practical competence is essential. Employers look for learners who can perform tasks safely and correctly in real workplaces.

WIL helps learners by:

• Turning classroom knowledge into real skills
• Introducing workplace safety, quality, and compliance standards
• Building problem-solving and teamwork abilities
• Preparing learners for trade tests and further occupational training

MerSETA’s Role in Skills Development

How MerSETA Supports Learners

The Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA (MerSETA) is one of South Africa’s 21 SETAs established under the Skills Development Act of 1998.

MerSETA focuses on skills development within:

• Manufacturing
• Engineering
• Related technical services

Through funding mechanisms such as bursaries, learnerships, apprenticeships, and WIL, MerSETA aims to address scarce and critical skills shortages.

MerSETA-funded programmes are designed to:

• Improve youth employability
• Support priority trades and occupations
• Ensure quality training through accredited providers

The programmes offered at Resolution Circle align with these objectives.

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. The organisation delivers programmes aligned with:

• QCTO accreditation requirements
• Industry standards
• National skills development frameworks

Their training approach focuses on:

• Practical, hands-on learning
• Supervised workplace exposure
• Trade-specific outcomes
• Ethical and transparent learner support

This ensures learners gain measurable, job-relevant competencies.

Trades and Programmes Offered

Electrical Apprenticeship and WIL Pathways

Electrical training includes exposure to:

• Electrical installations and maintenance
• Industrial electrical systems
• Fault finding and testing
• Workplace safety and compliance

These pathways support learners working toward electrician trade qualifications.

Mechanical, Fitting and Turning Pathways

Mechanical training focuses on:

• Fitting and Turning practices
• Mechanical fitting and machining
• Use of workshop tools and equipment
• Preventative maintenance principles

These skills are critical across manufacturing and industrial maintenance environments.

Boilermaking and Welding Training

Fabrication-related programmes include:

• Boilermaking processes
• Welding techniques and safety
• Metal fabrication and assembly
• Reading and interpreting technical drawings

These trades remain in high demand in infrastructure, mining, and manufacturing sectors.

Millwright Training Opportunities

Millwright training combines both mechanical and electrical skills, including:

• Installation and maintenance of machinery
• Mechanical and electrical fault finding
• Preventative and corrective maintenance
• Industrial safety practices

Millwrights play a key role in keeping production systems operational.

Plumbing and Instrument Mechanician Pathways

Additional training options include:

• Plumbing installation and maintenance
• Instrument Mechanician training focused on control systems and measurement
• Process-related technical skills used in industrial and utility environments

These programmes support diverse technical career paths.

Programme Duration and Structure

How Long Do the Programmes Run?

Programme duration depends on the trade and qualification level. Apprenticeships typically run between 36 and 40 months, while WIL components may span several months.

Learners complete structured workplace tasks aligned with their qualification outcomes under supervision.

What Learners Can Expect

Participants can expect:

• Supervised, practical workplace exposure
• Trade-specific skills development
• Training aligned with QCTO and MerSETA frameworks
• A focus on competence, not guaranteed employment

Who Should Apply?

Suitable Candidates

These programmes are suitable for:

• TVET college graduates
• Learners who have completed theoretical training
• Individuals needing workplace exposure to complete qualifications
• Aspiring artisans pursuing formal trade pathways

Applicants should ensure their academic background matches their chosen trade.

Application Details and Closing Date

Closing Date

No official closing date has been announced. Applications will remain open until available training spaces are filled. Early application is strongly recommended due to limited capacity.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the official Resolution Circle website:
https://www.resolutioncircle.co.za

Why These Programmes Matter in 2026

Addressing Artisan Skills Shortages

South Africa continues to experience shortages in key artisan trades. MerSETA-funded WIL and apprenticeship programmes help close this gap by providing structured, industry-aligned training.

Supporting Long-Term Employability

These programmes focus on:

• Real workplace competence
• Qualification progression
• Sustainable career development

This improves long-term employability rather than short-term outcomes.

Transparency for Applicants

Resolution Circle programmes:

• Do not guarantee employment
• Focus on skills development
• Align with national skills priorities
• Are delivered by an established training provider

Applicants are advised to confirm programme requirements directly with Resolution Circle before applying.