Grade 12 and N2 Engineering Graduates Have Until 17 July 2026 to Apply for Three-Year Artisan Training in Limpopo
South Africa’s mining industry is entering a new era of mechanised operations, automation and advanced engineering, creating growing demand for highly skilled artisans. To help develop the next generation of technical professionals, Ivanplats (Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Mines, has announced applications for its 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme.
The programme offers aspiring artisans the opportunity to receive structured workplace training at the company’s Platreef Mine near Mokopane in Limpopo. Over a period of up to three years, successful candidates will work alongside qualified artisans while completing trade-related training in some of the mining industry’s most sought-after engineering disciplines.
Applications are open until 17 July 2026, with preference given to Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs), women and qualifying applicants from communities surrounding the Platreef Mine.
Programme Overview
| Programme Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Employer | Ivanplats (Pty) Ltd |
| Programme | Artisan Learnership Programme 2026 |
| Vacancy Reference | IVP-HRD-2615 |
| Industry | Mining & Engineering |
| Location | Platreef Mine, Mokopane, Limpopo |
| Programme Duration | Up to 3 Years |
| Minimum Qualification | Grade 12 + N2 Engineering |
| Closing Date | 17 July 2026 |
| Application Method | Online |
A Career Path Into Modern Mining
Mining today requires far more than physical labour. Modern underground operations depend on advanced machinery, automated systems and highly trained artisans capable of maintaining sophisticated equipment safely and efficiently.
Ivanplats is developing one of South Africa’s largest mechanised underground platinum-group metals projects, making technical skills essential to the mine’s future success.
The Artisan Learnership Programme has been designed to prepare young South Africans for these specialised careers through a combination of accredited technical learning and supervised workplace experience.
Participants will gain practical exposure to real mining operations while working towards recognised artisan qualifications.
Engineering Trades Available
Successful applicants will be placed in one of the following artisan disciplines:
- Auto Electrician
- Boilermaker
- Diesel Mechanic
- Fitter and Turner
- Instrumentation
- Mechanical Fitter
- Millwright
- Rigger
Each trade offers structured training that combines practical workplace learning with technical development under the supervision of experienced artisans.
What the Learnership Offers
The programme provides learners with practical exposure to engineering work performed in a modern mining environment.
Training may include:
Technical Development
- Preventative maintenance
- Mechanical repairs
- Industrial electrical systems
- Equipment inspections
- Workshop practices
- Engineering measurements
- Diagnostic techniques
- Occupational health and safety
Workplace Development
Participants will also strengthen important professional skills including:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Technical problem-solving
- Time management
- Planning and organisation
- Safety compliance
- Professional conduct
These competencies remain valuable across mining, manufacturing, energy and heavy industrial sectors.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Grade 12 (National Senior Certificate).
- Mathematics with a minimum of 60%.
- Physical Science with a minimum of 60%.
- N2 qualification in an engineering discipline.
- South African citizen or permanent resident.
Preference will be given to applicants from local communities surrounding the Platreef Mine, women and Historically Disadvantaged South Africans, in line with the company’s employment equity objectives.
Programme Conditions
Successful learners will participate in the programme for a maximum period of three years, or until they obtain their trade qualification, whichever occurs first.
Participants should also be prepared to:
- Work both underground and on surface operations.
- Complete medical fitness examinations.
- Undergo capability assessments.
- Participate fully in practical workplace training.
These requirements are standard within the mining industry and help ensure participants are prepared for the demands of technical mining environments.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following certified documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- South African Identity Document.
- Grade 12 certificate.
- N2 Engineering qualification.
- Letter from the relevant Tribal Authority or Induna.
Incomplete applications may not proceed to the next stage of the recruitment process.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Artisan qualifications continue to rank among South Africa’s most valuable technical credentials.
Depending on business requirements and successful completion of trade qualifications, participants may pursue careers as:
- Millwright
- Mechanical Fitter
- Diesel Mechanic
- Auto Electrician
- Boilermaker
- Instrumentation Technician
- Rigger
- Engineering Artisan
The experience gained may also create opportunities within manufacturing, engineering services, processing plants and other mining operations.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official Ivanplats recruitment platform.
Before applying, ensure you have prepared:
- Certified academic qualifications.
- Certified South African ID.
- Updated CV.
- Tribal Authority or Induna letter.
Only complete applications received before 17 July 2026 will be considered.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
Technical artisans remain among the most sought-after professionals within South Africa’s mining industry. As companies adopt automated equipment and digital mining technologies, the need for qualified mechanical, electrical and engineering specialists continues to grow.
The Ivanplats Artisan Learnership Programme provides more than technical training. It introduces participants to one of the country’s most advanced mining developments while helping them build recognised trade skills that can support long-term employment across multiple industrial sectors.
For young South Africans with strong Mathematics, Physical Science and engineering studies, this programme offers an opportunity to begin a career in a modern mining environment where technical expertise continues to play a vital role.
Sources and References
- Ivanplats Artisan Learnership Programme 2026 (Reference: IVP-HRD-2615).
- Ivanhoe Mines Platreef Project information.
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
- National Artisan Development Strategy.
- Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998).
Editorial Transparency
Editorial Policy: This article has been independently written using official vacancy information released by Ivanplats together with publicly available information on South Africa’s artisan development framework and mining industry. Editorial analysis has been added to explain the importance of artisan training and the role of mechanised mining in developing future technical careers. Prospective applicants should verify all eligibility requirements and submit applications through the official Ivanplats recruitment portal before the closing date.
