Company: Department of Tourism
Location: Northern Cape, Gauteng, Eastern Cape
Remuneration: Stipend provided (details in application)
Closing Date: Check provincial listings for specific dates

Introduction
Department of Tourism Exciting Professional Cookery Learnership Programmes Are you passionate about hospitality, eager to build a career in food service, and seeking structured training to get there? Good news — the Department of Tourism, in partnership with Harambee, is currently offering Professional Cookery Learnership Programmes across several provinces. These programs offer unemployed youth the chance to gain on-the-job experience, build skills, and improve employability in the tourism and hospitality sector.

Here’s everything you need to know — from eligibility to how to apply — for the Northern Cape, Gauteng, and Eastern Cape learnerships.

What Are These Learnerships About?
The Professional Cookery Learnership Programme is a 12-month structured training scheme where successful candidates will sign a contract for the duration of the programme. The training combines hands-on kitchen experience with theoretical instruction, equipping participants with practical cookery skills and industry insights.

Key objectives:

• Create pathways into the hospitality and tourism sector for unemployed youth
• Provide meaningful workplace experience under guided supervision
• Encourage youth inclusion, including persons with disabilities

Provincial Opportunities at a Glance:

• Northern Cape – Training occurs in-province. Candidates must work flexible hours including weekends/public holidays.
• Gauteng – Ideal for those living in or near South Africa’s economic hub or willing to relocate.
• Eastern Cape – Offers the same 12-month programme for youth in the region or willing to move there.

Minimum Requirements
Prospective applicants should:

• Be between ages 18 and 35
• Have a Matric certificate
• Be fluent in English
• Have a prior qualification in Tourism or Hospitality (preferred)
• Submit a CV with a motivational letter
• Provide certified copies of ID, proof of residence, and any relevant certificates
• Be able to work flexible hours (weekends/public holidays/in rotation)
• Declare any prior participation in similar departmental learnerships or skills programs

Persons with disabilities are expressly encouraged to apply, reflecting the programme’s inclusivity.

Role Responsibility

• Gain real-world experience under the supervision of professional chefs
• Participate in kitchen operations, food preparation, and service management
• Follow health, safety, and hygiene standards in all kitchen tasks
• Assist in portion management, menu preparation, and operational workflows
• Engage with peers and mentors to develop teamwork and professional skills

Skills and Attributes

• Strong interest in cooking and hospitality
• Ability to learn quickly and follow instructions
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Discipline, reliability, and willingness to work flexible hours
• Team-oriented mindset with attention to detail

Benefits & What to Expect During Training

• Real-World Experience: Hands-on kitchen training, applying food preparation techniques and operational knowledge
• Structured Learning Path: Combination of theoretical instruction and practical tasks
• Networking & Mentorship: Build contacts with hospitality professionals for future employment opportunities
• Career Readiness: Prepare for roles as cooks, chefs, kitchen assistants, or other food service positions

How to Apply & What to Do Next

• Prepare documents: CV, motivational letter, certified IDs, proof of residence, and any certificates
• Check your preferred provincial opportunity
• Submit your application before the deadline
• Await notification if shortlisted
• Attend interviews to assess suitability
• Be honest about prior programme participation, location preference, and commitment

Apply Using the Links Below

• Professional Cookery Learnership Programme – Northern Cape
• Professional Cookery Learnership Programme – Gauteng
• Professional Cookery Learnership Programme – Eastern Cape

Why These Learnerships Matter
These cookery learnerships provide youth with a rare combination of formal training, real-world experience, and career exposure. They promote equity and opportunity by including underserved groups, including people with disabilities. Completing the 12-month programme equips candidates with kitchen skills, discipline, teamwork, and operational knowledge — qualities highly valued in hospitality and tourism.

Conclusion
If you are aged 18–35, hold a Matric certificate, and dream of a career in the hospitality sector, these cookery learnerships are a valuable stepping stone. Choose your preferred province, prepare your documents, and apply promptly to secure your chance to gain hands-on culinary experience and career readiness.