Frequently Asked Questions

A Learnership is an educational program designed to train and equip learners with the necessary skills and qualifications to succeed in the various sectors involved in the design, production, and management of textile, footwear, leather, and clothing products. It blends theory with practical application and aims to develop both technical and creative expertise.

• Governments may offer direct funding or grants to businesses that host learnerships. This can cover part of the training costs or provide a stipend to learners, reducing the employer’s financial commitment.
• Employers may be able to access stipends or allowances for learners enrolled in approved learnerships. These stipends are often subsidized by the government to encourage both employers and learners to participate in these training programs.
• Businesses that participate in learnership programs qualify for a rebate on the Skills Development Levy (SDL) they pay to the government. This is an incentive for employers to invest in skills development and training.

• Companies that participate in learnerships and register learners can earn points towards their B-BBEE scorecard. This can improve a company’s rating and enhance their business prospects, especially when dealing with government contracts or large enterprises that prioritize suppliers with good B-BBEE scores.
• Registering learners on learnership programs provides businesses with the opportunity to develop a skilled workforce aligned to their specific needs. This can lead to improved productivity, reduced turnover, and lower recruitment costs in the long term.
• Investing in skills development leads to a well-rounded, competent, and motivated workforce that can adapt to market demands, improve operational efficiencies, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive innovation. All these factors contribute to sustained business growth, increased profitability, and a stronger competitive position in the market.

• Each year, SETAs open funding windows for Discretionary Grants, enabling registered and eligible employers to apply for financial support for learning programmes. For example, with the FP&M SETA, applications for discretionary grants must be submitted by 30 April annually.
• These learning programme grants have set amounts and are intended to partially cover the total cost of training. This can include expenses such as fees for external providers, internal costs associated with implementing workplace-based training, stipends for unemployed learners, and other related expenses.
• For any help please email: julien@aranda.co.za