How to Verify If a Learnership Is Legitimate or a Scam

Beware of Learnership Scams: How to Identify Legitimate Opportunities

Learnerships offer South Africans a valuable way to gain workplace experience while earning a qualification. However, as these programs grow in popularity, so do scams that target unsuspecting individuals. Fraudsters exploit job seekers by promising fake learnerships, often demanding upfront payments or stealing personal information.

To protect yourself, it's essential to recognize the signs of a legitimate learnership and spot potential scams.

A learnership is a structured program combining theoretical education with practical workplace training. These programs are registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and overseen by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). They are typically employer-funded, free for participants, and may offer a monthly stipend.

Unfortunately, scammers mimic the structure of legitimate learnerships to deceive job seekers. Here’s how to differentiate between real and fake opportunities.

How to Identify a Legitimate Learnership

To ensure a learnership is genuine, check for the following:

✅ SETAs Registration – All legitimate learnerships are registered with a SETA. Verify by contacting the relevant SETA directly.

✅ No Upfront Fees – Genuine learnerships do not require payment for applications, registrations, or materials.

✅ Clear Contact Information – Reputable organizations provide verified business addresses, phone numbers, and websites. Be cautious of those using free email services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo).

✅ Accredited Training Providers – The institution must be accredited by SAQA. Verify its credentials on SAQA’s official website.

✅ Realistic Stipends – While some learnerships offer stipends, exaggerated salary promises should be treated with suspicion.

Red Flags: Signs of a Scam Learnership

🚩 Requests for Payment – If asked to pay upfront fees, it's likely a scam.

🚩 Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers – Unrealistic promises of high stipends or guaranteed jobs are warning signs.

🚩 Lack of Accreditation – Always check if the program is registered with a SETA or SAQA.

🚩 Unprofessional Communication – Poorly written emails, vague job descriptions, and pressure tactics indicate fraud.

🚩 Urgency & Pressure – Scammers often rush applicants to “act fast” to secure a spot.

How to Verify a Learnership

If you're unsure about a learnership, follow these steps:

1. Research the Organization – Look for a professional website, active social media, and verified contact details.

2. Contact the SETA – Identify the relevant SETA (e.g., Services SETA, MERSETA) and verify if the program is registered.

3. Verify Accreditation – Confirm the training provider’s accreditation via SAQA.

4. Check Trusted Job Boards – Use reputable platforms like Careers24, PNet, and SETA websites.

5. Speak to Past Participants – If possible, connect with former learners to hear their experiences.

What to Do If You Encounter a Scam

If you suspect a fraudulent learnership:

🔹 Report It – Contact the South African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) or SAPS.

🔹 Warn Others – Share your experience on social media or job forums.

🔹 Protect Your Information – If you’ve shared personal details, monitor your accounts and update passwords.

Helpful Resources

• SAQA: www.saqa.org.za

• SETAs Directory: Visit the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) website.

• Fraud Reporting: www.safps.org.za