The South African Forestry Company (SAFCOL) is offering unemployed South African youth an opportunity to develop forestry skills through its 10-month Forestry Silviculture Learnership Programme. The programme combines accredited theoretical training with practical experience and leads to a Forestry Silviculture qualification at NQF Level 3.
The opportunity is aimed at young people between 18 and 35 who are interested in building careers in the forestry industry. Participants will receive structured training at the SAFCOL Training Centre in Platorand, near Sabie in Mpumalanga.
The programme is also intended to develop foundational skills and create opportunities for young people who may eventually want to establish small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) within the forestry sector.
SAFCOL Forestry Silviculture Learnership 2026: Programme Overview
| Programme detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organisation | SAFCOL |
| Programme | Forestry Silviculture Learnership |
| Year | 2026 |
| Qualification | Forestry Silviculture |
| NQF Level | Level 3 |
| Duration | 10 months |
| Location | Platorand, Sabie, Mpumalanga |
| Minimum qualification | Grade 12 |
| Age requirement | 18–35 years |
| Employment status | Unemployed |
| Training format | Accredited theory and practical training |
| Monthly stipend | Provided; amount not specified |
| Application method | |
| Closing date stated in advert | 14 November 2026 |
About the SAFCOL Forestry Silviculture Learnership
The South African Forestry Company (SAFCOL) is involved in forestry operations and related activities in South Africa.
Through the Forestry Silviculture Learnership, the organisation aims to equip unemployed youth with foundational knowledge and practical skills relevant to forestry operations.
The 10-month programme consists of two main components:
- Accredited theoretical training: Learners receive forestry-related instruction at NQF Level 3.
- Practical training: Participants gain practical exposure to forestry activities and workplace learning.
Upon successful completion, learners will receive a Forestry Silviculture Certificate at NQF Level 3.
The programme may also help participants explore future opportunities within the forestry industry, including possible small business development.
Who Can Apply?
According to the SAFCOL advertisement, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be unemployed.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Have successfully passed Matric (Grade 12).
- Be passionate about the forestry environment.
- Be able and willing to work outdoors.
Applicants should be comfortable participating in practical training activities and working in outdoor environments.
Employment Equity and Selection Preference
SAFCOL is an equal opportunity company that focuses on gender equality and the inclusion of people living with disabilities.
Preference will be given to previously disadvantaged youth from communities with which SAFCOL has signed a Social Compact.
Where Will Successful Learners Be Based?
Successful learners will be based at the official SAFCOL Training Centre in Platorand, situated near Sabie in Mpumalanga Province.
Participants will complete theoretical and practical training during the programme.
Applicants should consider the training location before applying and confirm any accommodation or transport arrangements directly with SAFCOL.
Monthly Stipend
The advertisement confirms that appointed learners will receive a monthly stipend for the duration of the 10-month learnership.
However, the exact stipend amount has not been provided.
Applicants who need clarification about the stipend and payment arrangements can contact the SAFCOL representative listed below.
Documents Required
Applicants must complete the SAFCOL Learnership Application Form and submit it with the required supporting documents.
The documents listed in the advertisement include:
- Completed SAFCOL Learnership Application Form.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Certified copy of Matric Certificate or Statement of Results.
- Certified copy of South African Identity Document (ID).
Ensure that all supporting documents are clear, accurate and properly certified before submission.
How to Apply for the SAFCOL Forestry Silviculture Learnership
Applications must be submitted by email.
Application details
Email address
Silviculturelearnership@safcol.co.za Copy email address
Enquiries
- Contact person: Mr Tshilidzi Mavhungu
- Telephone: 078 803 3643
Applicants should complete the application form and attach their CV, certified Matric certificate or Statement of Results, and certified ID copy.
The advertisement states that information submitted will be used for the learnership recruitment and selection process.
Important Application Date Information
The supplied advertisement lists 14 November 2026 as the closing date.
This date has passed. The advertisement does not confirm a new application period. Interested candidates should contact SAFCOL to establish whether a new intake has been announced before submitting their personal documents.
Career Opportunities in Forestry Silviculture
Forestry Silviculture involves activities related to establishing, growing and managing forests.
The skills gained through forestry training may provide a foundation for exploring different areas of the forestry industry.
Possible career areas include:
- Forestry operations.
- Tree planting and establishment.
- Forest maintenance.
- Silviculture support.
- Nursery operations.
- Forest management support.
- Environmental and conservation activities.
Further qualifications, practical experience and additional training may be required for specialised positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the SAFCOL Forestry Silviculture Learnership?
The programme is advertised as a 10-month learnership.
2. What qualification will learners receive?
Successful learners will receive a Forestry Silviculture Certificate at NQF Level 3, subject to completing the programme requirements.
3. Can someone with Grade 11 apply?
No. The advertisement specifies Grade 12 as the minimum educational requirement.
4. Does the programme offer a monthly stipend?
Yes. The advertisement confirms a monthly stipend, but does not state the amount.
5. Where is the training conducted?
The training takes place at the SAFCOL Training Centre in Platorand, near Sabie in Mpumalanga.
6. Can people living with disabilities apply?
SAFCOL identifies people living with disabilities as part of its employment equity focus. Applicants should contact the organisation to confirm programme arrangements and support requirements.
Final Thoughts
The SAFCOL Forestry Silviculture Learnership provides a structured training opportunity for young South Africans interested in developing skills in the forestry sector.
The 10-month programme combines accredited theoretical learning with practical training and leads to an NQF Level 3 qualification.
Applicants should meet the Grade 12, citizenship, unemployment and age requirements stated in the advertisement.
Important: The advertised closing date is 14 November 2026 and has passed. Contact SAFCOL to confirm whether applications are being accepted for a new intake.
