Department of Tourism Skills Development Programme 2026/2027 – R200 Daily Stipend

The Department of Tourism is inviting unemployed young South Africans to apply for the 2026/2027 Culinary Skills Programme in Food and Beverage Services and Professional Cookery. This 12-month skills development opportunity is aimed at helping young people gain practical skills and improve their employment prospects in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Successful applicants will receive a daily stipend of R200 while participating in the programme. Young people who are passionate about cooking, food preparation, customer service and hospitality are encouraged to apply.

The programme is open to eligible applicants from selected towns across seven provinces. People living with disabilities are also encouraged to submit their applications.

Department of Tourism Skills Programme 2026/2027: Key Details

Programme: Culinary Skills Programme – Food and Beverage Services and Professional Cookery

Department: Department of Tourism

Duration: 12 months

Stipend: R200 per day

Target Group: Unemployed youth

Minimum Qualification: Matric certificate

Closing Date: 18 October 2026

About the Culinary Skills Programme

The Culinary Skills Programme focuses on developing skills relevant to food and beverage services and professional cookery. These areas form an important part of the hospitality and tourism sector, which includes restaurants, hotels, catering businesses and other establishments that serve visitors and customers.

During the 12-month programme, successful candidates will receive skills development intended to prepare them for opportunities within the industry.

The programme may be suitable for young people who want to gain practical experience, develop workplace skills and explore careers in hospitality.

Applicants should be prepared to work flexible hours, including weekends, public holidays and other times when required.

Available Provinces and Towns

Applications are invited from the following areas:

Northern Cape

• Kuruman
• Kathu
• Upington
• Springbok

Eastern Cape

• Port Elizabeth
• Lusikisiki
• Mthatha

Free State

• Phuthaditjhaba
• Harrismith
• Sasolburg
• Parys
• Kroonstad
• Viljoenskroon

North West

• Potchefstroom
• Mafikeng
• Klerksdorp

Limpopo

• Giyani

Mpumalanga

• Ermelo
• Malelane

Gauteng

• Pretoria
• Soshanguve

Applicants should check the official application form carefully and ensure that they provide accurate information.

Minimum Requirements

To qualify for consideration, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be between 18 and 35 years old.
• Have a Matric certificate.
• Be fluent in English.
• Submit a curriculum vitae (CV).
• Provide a certified copy of their identity document.
• Provide proof of residence.
• Submit a certified copy of their Matric certificate.
• Have a genuine interest in tourism and hospitality.
• Be willing to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays.

Important: Applicants who have previously participated in the Department of Tourism’s learnership or skills development programmes will not be considered.

People living with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Documents Required

Applicants should prepare the following documents before completing the online application:

• CV.
• Certified copy of ID.
• Proof of residence.
• Certified Matric certificate.

Failure to submit the required documents may result in the application not being considered. Make sure all information and supporting documents are complete before submitting.

Final Thoughts

The Department of Tourism Culinary Skills Programme 2026/2027 offers unemployed youth an opportunity to develop skills in professional cookery and food and beverage services while receiving a daily stipend of R200.

If you meet the age and educational requirements and are interested in building a future in hospitality, consider applying before the closing date.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not been contacted within two weeks after the closing date, the department advises you to consider your application unsuccessful.

How to Apply