Department of Tourism Professional Cookery Learnership 2025/2026 – Apply Now (Stipend R4 600)

The Department of Tourism is inviting unemployed South African youth to apply for the Professional Cookery Learnership Programme 2025/2026. This exciting opportunity is open to passionate individuals who want to build a career in the hospitality and tourism industry.

The closing date for applications is 30 September 2025, so make sure to submit your application on time to avoid missing out.

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About the Professional Cookery Learnership

The Department of Tourism’s Professional Cookery Learnership is a 12-month training programme designed to equip participants with the skills and experience needed to work in the tourism and hospitality sector.

During the programme, learners will receive theoretical training and hands-on workplace experience, allowing them to master professional cooking techniques while gaining valuable industry knowledge.

This programme is part of the Department’s commitment to skills development and job creation, with a focus on empowering young people and promoting inclusivity. Persons living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Provinces where the learnership is offered include:

Northern Cape
Gauteng
Eastern Cape
Other provinces across South Africa

Programme Benefits

Participants in the learnership will receive the following:

Monthly stipend: R4 600
Duration: 12 months (fixed-term contract)
Experience: Practical workplace exposure plus classroom training
Career opportunities: Improved employability in hotels, lodges, restaurants, and other hospitality environments

This learnership is an excellent stepping stone for those who want to work in tourism, hospitality, or culinary arts.

Who Should Apply

To be eligible, applicants must meet these minimum requirements:

Be unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 35.
Have a Matric certificate (must be fluent in English).
A Tourism or Hospitality qualification will be an added advantage but is not required.
Be willing to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays.
Be ready to commit to the full 12-month programme.
Submit the following certified documents:
- South African ID
- Proof of residence
- Educational qualifications
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivational letter explaining why you want to join the programme

Important:

Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Applicants must disclose if they have previously participated in any Department of Tourism learnership or skills programme.

What You Will Learn

Learners will receive training aligned with industry standards, including:

Professional cooking techniques and kitchen operations
Menu planning and food preparation
Health and safety practices in the kitchen
Customer service in hospitality settings
Time management and teamwork skills

This structured programme prepares participants to work in hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses.

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for the Professional Cookery Learnership 2025/2026:

Prepare your documents:
- Certified ID copy
- Proof of residence
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Updated CV
- Motivational letter
Submit your application online using the correct link for your province:
- Northern Cape: [Apply Here]
- Gauteng: [Apply Here]
- Eastern Cape: [Apply Here]
Make sure all documents are certified and not older than six months.
Double-check your application before submitting to ensure all required information is included.