Three-Year Engineering Learnership Offers Grade 12 and N2 Graduates Hands-On Training at the Platreef Mine in Limpopo
As South Africa’s mining sector embraces automation and advanced engineering technologies, companies are placing greater emphasis on developing skilled artisans who can support the industry’s future workforce. Responding to this growing demand, Ivanplats (Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Mines, has opened applications for its 2026 Artisan Learnership Programme.
The learnership offers unemployed South Africans the opportunity to complete structured artisan training at the company’s world-class Platreef Project near Mokopane in Limpopo. Over a period of up to three years, participants will receive practical workplace experience, technical instruction and mentoring while working towards recognised trade qualifications.
Applications close on 17 July 2026, and preference will be given to qualifying applicants from surrounding communities, Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs) and women.
Programme Overview
| Programme Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Employer | Ivanplats (Pty) Ltd |
| Programme | Artisan Learnership Programme 2026 |
| Reference Number | IVP-HRD-2615 |
| Location | Mokopane, Limpopo |
| Industry | Mining & Engineering |
| Duration | Up to 3 Years |
| Minimum Qualification | Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science (60%+) plus N2 Engineering |
| Application Method | Online |
| Closing Date | 17 July 2026 |
Supporting Skills Development in Modern Mining
The Platreef Project is being developed as a highly mechanised underground mine that will rely on modern engineering systems, automation and specialised equipment. As these technologies become increasingly important, the need for qualified artisans continues to grow.
The Ivanplats Artisan Learnership is designed to prepare participants for this environment by combining technical education with supervised workplace training. Rather than focusing only on classroom learning, learners gain practical experience that reflects the daily demands of a large-scale mining operation.
This approach helps participants build technical competence while developing the workplace confidence needed for long-term careers in engineering and mining.
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 follows a structured training pathway that combines practical workplace experience with formal learning towards a recognised trade qualification.
What Learners Will Experience
Throughout the programme, participants will work under the guidance of experienced artisans and engineering professionals while developing technical and workplace skills.
Training may include:
Technical Development
- Mechanical maintenance
- Electrical systems
- Engineering workshop practices
- Equipment installation and servicing
- Preventative maintenance
- Technical fault diagnosis
- Occupational health and safety
- Underground mining operations
Workplace Skills
Learners will also strengthen competencies including:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Technical problem-solving
- Time management
- Professional ethics
- Safety awareness
- Planning and organisation
These transferable skills remain valuable across mining, manufacturing and industrial engineering sectors.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for the programme, applicants should meet the following minimum requirements:
- South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Grade 12 qualification.
- Mathematics and Physical Science passed with a minimum of 60%.
- N2 Engineering qualification.
- Willingness to work in underground and surface mining environments.
Applicants must also be medically fit for mining work and prepared to complete capability assessments as part of the recruitment process.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants should include:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Certified copy of South African Identity Document.
- Certified copies of Grade 12 and N2 qualifications.
- Letter from the relevant Tribal Authority or Induna.
Incomplete applications may not be considered during the selection process.
Why Artisan Training Remains Important
Artisan qualifications continue to be among South Africa’s most sought-after technical credentials. Mining companies depend on skilled tradespeople to install, maintain and repair complex equipment that supports safe and efficient production.
Programmes like the Ivanplats Artisan Learnership help create sustainable career opportunities while strengthening the country’s technical skills base and supporting the future growth of the mining sector.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Learners who successfully complete the programme may pursue careers such as:
- Artisan
- Millwright
- Mechanical Fitter
- Diesel Mechanic
- Boilermaker
- Auto Electrician
- Instrumentation Technician
- Rigger
The experience gained may also support future trade testing, artisan certification and career advancement within mining, manufacturing and heavy industry.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online before the closing date.
Prepare the Following
- Certified qualifications.
- Certified South African ID.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae.
- Tribal Authority or Induna letter.
Submit Your Application
Applications should be completed through the Ivanplats Community Recruitment Portal before 17 July 2026.
Late applications will not be considered.
About Ivanplats
Ivanplats (Pty) Ltd, part of Ivanhoe Mines, is developing the Platreef Project near Mokopane in Limpopo Province. The operation is expected to become one of South Africa’s leading producers of platinum-group metals, nickel, copper and gold, using advanced mechanised mining technologies and modern engineering systems.
The company’s investment in artisan development reflects its long-term commitment to building local technical skills while supporting employment opportunities within surrounding communities.
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
Published: 28 June 2026
Editorial Policy: This article has been independently prepared using official recruitment information published by Ivanplats together with publicly available information relating to South Africa’s artisan development framework. Additional industry context has been included to help readers understand the importance of technical skills within the mining sector. Applicants are encouraged to verify all programme requirements and application procedures through the official Ivanplats recruitment portal before applying.
