Learner stipends are monthly payments paid to learners who are registered and contracted to SETA funded programmes. Payments are paid for the duration of the learner’s training programme.

Stipend payments are important to ensure that the learners can cover certain expenses such as transportation, meals, and stationery while they undergo training. Some learners are forced to abandon their training programmes due to non-payment as they cannot afford to get to their training centres. Such non-payments results in failed learnerships which then creates a break down in skills transfer which worsens the unemployment rate in the country. 

The purpose of SETA’s is to promote and facilitate the delivery of higher education, training, and development as a means of upskilling people for better employment opportunities.

During learnership programmes, SETA’s are expected to submit Annual Performance Plans (APP) which outline the details and budget allocation of each learnership. Unfortunately, the appointment of questionable service providers meant to facilitate stipend payments, has resulted in the non-payment of both learner stipends and training providers.

Past data shows that there have been times when learners have not received copies of their learnership agreements and award letters. This matter is compounded by the lack of proper administration as well as checks and balances, which include proper record keeping of monthly attendance registers and progress reports. Such administrative problems make it difficult for learners to follow up on non-payments of their stipends.