Why Understanding SETAs is a Game-Changer for Your Career
If you’re navigating your way through the South African skills development landscape, chances are you’ve heard about SETA — but what exactly is it, and why does it matter to your future?
In short, SETA stands for Sector Education and Training Authority, and it’s a powerful tool designed to close the gap between education and employability. There are currently 21 registered SETAs in South Africa, each aligned with specific sectors of the economy — from banking to agriculture, IT, and beyond.
Knowing which SETA governs your field not only helps you find funding and training opportunities but also opens doors to career growth, learnerships, and national skills development strategies. Let’s break down every SETA in South Africa and explore how each one plays a pivotal role in shaping industries and empowering individuals.
The Complete List of All SETA Sectors in South Africa (2025)
Below is the full breakdown of all 21 SETAs in South Africa, categorized by the sectors they support. Each SETA helps drive growth, innovation, and education in its specific economic zone.
1. AGRISETA (Agriculture)
- Focuses on agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
- Offers funding for farm management, animal production, and forestry training.
- FAQ: Can small-scale farmers apply for AGRISETA funding? Yes, they’re one of the main targets.
2. BANKSETA (Banking and Microfinance)
- Supports financial literacy and banking sector development.
- Crucial for students in finance, investment, and risk management.
- Fun Fact: BANKSETA helps fund bursaries for future bank managers.
3. CATHSSETA (Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport)
- Perfect for careers in entertainment, events, and hospitality.
- Supports skills programs for tour guides and chefs.
- Pro Tip: If you’re aiming for a career in travel or sports management, start here.
4. CHIETA (Chemical Industries)
- Covers petroleum, plastics, and chemical engineering training.
- Offers generous funding for high-demand technical skills.
5. ETDPSETA (Education, Training and Development Practices)
- Trains teachers, facilitators, and curriculum developers.
- Promotes transformation in the education sector.
6. EWSETA (Energy and Water)
- Supports energy technicians, water plant operators, and green energy solutions.
- Urgency Alert: With SA’s energy crisis, skills in this sector are in high demand!
7. FASSET (Finance and Accounting Services)
- A go-to for accountants, tax practitioners, and auditors.
- Provides learnerships and internships in professional finance.
8. FOODBEV SETA (Food and Beverages Manufacturing)
- Trains workers in baking, beverage production, and food safety.
- Also funds hygiene and quality control courses.
9. FP&M SETA (Fibre Processing and Manufacturing)
- Focuses on textiles, clothing, and wood products.
- Great SETA for artisans and designers.
10. HWSETA (Health and Welfare)
- Offers training for nurses, social workers, and caregivers.
- Emotional Impact: Your career could literally save lives.
11. INSETA (Insurance Sector)
- Supports insurance brokers and risk consultants.
- Offers internships and qualifications tailored to underwriting.
12. LGSETA (Local Government)
- Equips workers in municipalities, town planning, and service delivery.
- Funds training for administrative and planning roles.
13. MERSETA (Manufacturing, Engineering, and Related Services)
- One of the largest SETAs.
- Perfect for welders, mechanics, and automation specialists.
14. MICTSETA (Media, Information and Communication Technology)
- Powers careers in digital media, coding, and broadcasting.
- 2025 Insight: MICTSETA is booming thanks to the 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution).
15. MQA (Mining Qualifications Authority)
- Trains mine engineers, safety officers, and underground specialists.
- Offers scarce skills bursaries in mining-heavy regions.
16. PSETA (Public Service)
- Supports careers in government departments and public administration.
- Strong focus on ethics, leadership, and governance.
17. SASSETA (Safety and Security)
- Covers policing, defense, private security, and law enforcement.
- Security Alert: Rising crime has boosted demand for skilled personnel.
18. SERVICES SETA (General Services Industry)
- One of the most versatile SETAs.
- From real estate to HR to cleaning services — it’s all here.
19. TETA (Transport Education and Training Authority)
- Covers logistics, aviation, and maritime transport.
- Offers funding for commercial driver training and air traffic control.
20. W&RSETA (Wholesale and Retail)
- Supports retail assistants, merchandisers, and store managers.
- Ideal for entrepreneurial-minded individuals.
21. CETA (Construction Education and Training Authority)
- Drives development in construction, engineering, and civil works.
- Did You Know? CETA funds many infrastructure-based learnerships.
Top FAQs About SETA in South Africa (Answered!)
What is the purpose of SETAs?
To bridge the gap between industry needs and workforce skills by offering training, funding, and development opportunities.
Can individuals apply directly to a SETA?
Not always. Many SETAs fund institutions or employers who then deliver programs. However, some bursary applications are open to individuals.
How do SETAs support small businesses?
SETAs provide grants, learnership support, and skills programs for SMEs to train their staff or hire interns.
Are SETA qualifications recognized nationally?
Absolutely! SETA-accredited training aligns with SAQA and the NQF, ensuring national recognition.
How do I find which SETA applies to me?
Match your field of interest with the SETA list above or visit www.dhet.gov.za for a full guide.
Conclusion: Empower Your Future with the Right SETA
Whether you’re a student, job seeker, entrepreneur, or working professional, SETAs are your fast track to funded opportunities, accredited skills training, and national recognition. South Africa’s development hinges on equipping its people — and SETAs are leading that charge.
So don’t wait. Identify your sector, tap into your relevant SETA, and invest in a future that’s not only skilled but unstoppable.