Imagine bringing stories to life, shaping community conversations, and launching a career in radio—all from the heart of Upington. Radio Riverside, a vibrant community radio station broadcasting across a 110km radius in the Northern Cape, is offering a life-changing 12-month learnership programme in Radio Production (News and Programming) for 2025. If you’re a young, unemployed South African with a passion for media and a Grade 12 certificate, this is your chance to gain hands-on skills and industry knowledge. Here’s everything you need to know to apply and shine.
Why Join the Radio Riverside Learnership?
Radio Riverside is more than a station—it’s a voice for Upington and surrounding towns, connecting communities through news, music, and stories. This MICT SETA-accredited learnership is designed to empower unemployed youth aged 18–35 with practical training in radio production, from crafting compelling news segments to creating engaging programmes. You’ll earn a monthly stipend (typically R2,500, based on MICT SETA standards), gain real-world experience, and work toward a nationally recognized NQF Level 5 qualification. It’s a launchpad to a career in media, equipping you with skills that employers value.
Who Can Apply?
This programme is tailored for passionate, unemployed youth in Upington and nearby areas. To qualify, you must meet these requirements:
- Employment Status: Unemployed and not participating in any other MICT SETA or government-funded programmes (e.g., NSFAS, Funza Lushaka).
- Education: Completed Grade 12 (Matric certificate; attach certified copy).
- Location: Resident of Upington or surrounding areas in the Northern Cape.
- Age: Between 18 and 35 years old.
- Previous Programmes: No prior participation in MICT SETA-funded learnerships (provide an affidavit to confirm).
- Documents: Valid South African ID (certified copy) and a comprehensive CV.
No prior media experience is required—just a drive to learn and a love for storytelling or communication. Bonus points if you have skills in public speaking or youth development, as these align well with radio production.
What Will You Learn?
This 12-month learnership blends classroom learning with hands-on practice at Radio Riverside’s studios. You’ll dive into:
- News Production: Researching, writing, and presenting news for broadcast.
- Programme Creation: Developing engaging radio content, from talk shows to music segments.
- Technical Skills: Operating studio equipment, editing audio, and mastering production tools.
- Soft Skills: Building communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
By the end, you’ll earn a MICT SETA-accredited certificate, giving you a competitive edge in the media industry or related fields like journalism and content creation.
How to Apply for the Learnership
Applications are open now, but the clock is ticking! Follow these steps to apply before the deadline:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- A detailed CV with your contact details and any relevant skills (e.g., public speaking, communication, or youth development).
- Certified copy of your South African ID (no older than three months).
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 (Matric) certificate.
- A signed affidavit stating you’re unemployed and have not participated in any MICT SETA or other funded programmes.
- Submit Your Application:
- By Email: Send your documents to news@radioriverside.co.za with the subject line “Application for Learnership.”
- In Person: Hand-deliver to Radio Riverside, 3 Robinson Street, Upington, Northern Cape.
- Deadline: Submit by 16:00 on Monday, 18 August 2025.
Use Google Chrome for email submissions to avoid technical issues, and ensure all documents are certified and complete. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Tips for a Standout Application
Want to make your application shine? Here are some heartfelt tips:
- Tailor Your CV: Highlight any experience in communication, public speaking, or community work, even if informal (e.g., school projects or volunteering).
- Write a Motivation Letter: Include a short letter explaining your passion for radio and how this learnership aligns with your career goals.
- Check Your Documents: Ensure your ID and Matric certificate are certified within the last three months.
- Apply Early: Beat the rush to show your enthusiasm and avoid last-minute glitches.
- Avoid Scams: Only apply through the official email (news@radioriverside.co.za) or physical address. Radio Riverside does not charge application fees.
What to Expect After Applying
After submitting, Radio Riverside’s selection committee will review applications. If shortlisted, you may be called for:
- An interview to discuss your interest and skills.
- A practical assessment, like reading a news script or creating a sample programme.
- Verification of your unemployment status and documents.
Successful candidates will start the learnership in late 2025, receiving a monthly stipend of approximately R2,500 to cover transport and basic expenses. The programme includes mentorship from experienced broadcasters, giving you a real shot at a media career.
Why This Opportunity Matters
South Africa faces high youth unemployment—over 8 million people are jobless due to skills shortages. This Radio Riverside learnership, backed by MICT SETA, tackles that by equipping you with in-demand media skills. Whether you dream of being a radio presenter, producer, or journalist, this programme offers:
- Practical Experience: Work in a real radio studio, building a portfolio that stands out to employers.
- Recognized Qualification: Earn an NQF Level 5 certificate, valued across South Africa’s media industry.
- Career Boost: Many learners secure jobs or freelance gigs after completing MICT SETA programmes.
Plus, you’ll be part of Radio Riverside’s mission to uplift the Northern Cape, connecting communities through powerful storytelling.
Conclusion
The Radio Riverside Learnership in Radio Production for 2025 is your ticket to a vibrant career in media. If you’re an unemployed youth in Upington with a Grade 12 certificate and a passion for radio, don’t miss this chance to learn, earn, and grow. Gather your CV, certified ID, Matric certificate, and affidavit, and apply by 18 August 2025 via email (news@radioriverside.co.za) or at 3 Robinson Street, Upington. With MICT SETA’s backing and Radio Riverside’s community spirit, you’re one step away from turning your voice into a career. Apply now, and let your story be heard!
