In South Africa, demand for skilled artisans is high. Technical trades like Diesel Mechanics and Automotive Electricians are especially needed in industries like mining, transport, and logistics. SG Coal’s 2025/2026 Apprenticeship Programme is designed to fill that gap by training unemployed youth, offering hands-on learning, and awarding nationally recognised credentials. If you’ve ever dreamt of becoming an artisan in one of these trades, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
Apprenticeship Programme Fields Available:
- Diesel mechanic
- Automotive Electrician
What Is the SG Coal Apprenticeship Programme?
SG Coal, a major player in coal transport and logistics, is launching a three-year apprenticeship scheme in two in-demand trades: Diesel Mechanic and Automotive Electrician.
- The programme combines theory and practical training. Apprentices will attend classroom instruction and also gain on-the-job experience under skilled mentors.
- At the end of the three years, successful candidates will obtain a Red Seal qualification, which is well respected across the country and signals you are a qualified artisan.
This apprenticeship is aimed at building the skill set of South Africa’s youth and helping them break into trades that are essential to many sectors.
Who Should Apply?
SG Coal’s apprenticeship is targeted at young South Africans who are:
- Between 18 and 35 years old.
- Unemployed and available full time for the duration of the three-year apprenticeship.
- Interested in one of the two trades — Diesel Mechanics or Automotive Electrical work.
- Willing to commit to both classroom (theory) and practical work.
Additionally, SG Coal fosters inclusion, encouraging people living with disabilities to apply. Various forms of disability (developmental, physical, visual, hearing) are accepted when candidates provide relevant, valid medical or verification documentation.
Minimum Entry Requirements
To be considered for the apprenticeship, you must meet certain academic and personal requirements. These include:
- Completed Grade 9 with at least 50% in Mathematics and Science, OR an NQF Level 1 qualification with 50% in those subjects.
- Must have South African citizenship.
- Must be physically and medically fit to perform workshop tasks and field/vehicle-based work.
- No prior experience is strictly required, though any mechanical, automotive, or electrical exposure (even informal) will be an advantage.
- Must be able to commit to full duration (three years), which includes theory, practical, and workplace training.
Meeting the entry requirements does not guarantee selection — the process is competitive, and applicants will be assessed and shortlisted based on criteria such as performance in the required subjects, readiness, and potential.
What You’ll Learn
Over the course of the apprenticeship, learners will be trained in both technical theory and hands-on work. Key areas include:
- Diesel Mechanics trade: repair, maintenance, diagnostics, servicing of diesel engines and large vehicles, troubleshooting faults, safety in mechanical work.
- Automotive Electrical trade: working with vehicle wiring, lights, alternators, batteries, sensors and control systems; understanding electrical diagrams and safety procedures.
Training combines workshops, mentorship with qualified artisans, real-life tasks in a workplace, and assessments. Theory modules will include technical theory, engineering science, safety, and relevant trade practices.
Duration, Structure & How It Works
- The apprenticeship lasts three years in total.
- The first part includes classroom instruction (trade theory, safety, basic engineering concepts).
- The remainder includes practical, on-the-job training, where apprentices work under supervision. This gives you exposure to real work environments, tools, and challenges.
Throughout, apprentices are assessed on both their theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Passing both is necessary to obtain the Red Seal qualification at the end.
Benefits & What You Gain
Joining SG Coal’s programme offers many advantages beyond learning a trade:
- Red Seal Qualification: This is a nationally recognised artisan certification. It increases employability significantly.
- Hands-on Experience: You’ll work with real vehicles and equipment, not just classroom theory.
- Mentorship: Learning from experienced mechanics and electricians will fast-track your growth.
- Path to Employment: Graduates may become employed by SG Coal, transport/logistics firms, workshops, maintenance divisions, or similar industries.
- Inclusivity: If you live with a disability, you’re encouraged to apply. SG Coal supports accessibility and equal opportunity.
Important Dates & Deadline
- The application closing date for SG Coal Apprenticeship 2025/2026 is 3 November 2025.
- Application is for the upcoming intake period, so applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered. sseta.co.za
How to Apply
To apply successfully, follow these steps carefully:
- Prepare Your Documents
- Certified copy of your ID.
- Academic records showing your passes in Mathematics and Science (or the certificates for Grade 9/NQF Level 1).
- CV (Curriculum Vitae) summarizing your personal details, education, any work or voluntary experience.
- Medical or disability paperwork if applicable.
- Fill Out the Application
- Submit Before the Deadline
- Submit via SG Coal’s official application portal or as specified in their announcement.
- Make sure everything is completed and all supporting documents are included. Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
- After Submission
- If shortlisted, you may be asked to attend an interview, aptitude test, or other assessment.
- Be ready to demonstrate interest, motivation, and a basic understanding of the trade.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Early preparation: start gathering your certified documents well before the deadline.
- Clear and professional CV: even if you don’t have work experience, show any informal experience, school projects, technical clubs, or mechanical tasks you might have done.
- Highlight strengths: especially in Maths and Science, because those are key trade-relevant subjects.
- Motivation statement: explain why you want to become a Diesel Mechanic or Automotive Electrician, what interests you about the trade, and why you believe you can succeed.
- Be reachable: ensure the contact information you give is correct; SG Coal may contact via phone or email for next steps.
Who Should Consider Applying
This programme is especially good for:
- Youth who enjoy working with machinery, vehicles, tools, and engines
- People who prefer hands-on learning over purely classroom theory
- Individuals committed to long-term learning and growth in a skilled trade
- Those who want a stable and valued qualification in an industry that needs skilled artisans
Final Thoughts
The SG Coal Apprenticeship Programme 2025/2026 is a real opportunity. If you meet the entry criteria and are willing to commit your energy, time, and passion, this programme can set you on a strong career path as a certified artisan. Trades like Diesel Mechanics and Automotive Electrical work are not only crucial in coal, transport, and mining sectors — they also offer job stability and growth potential.
Don’t miss your chance. Prepare your documents, apply before 3 November 2025, and take your first step toward becoming a qualified artisan. Whether you choose Diesel Mechanic or Automotive Electrician, you’re investing in a future skill that keeps the wheels of industry turning.