FASSET Invites Accredited Training Providers to Apply for Digital Skills Programme Funding 2026/2027
The Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) has officially opened applications for its Digital Skills Programme 2026/2027, inviting accredited training service providers to apply for funding to deliver high-impact digital skills programmes for unemployed South Africans.
The funding initiative forms part of FASSET’s ongoing commitment to strengthening South Africa’s digital economy by expanding access to quality skills development opportunities. Successful training providers will be supported to offer programmes that equip unemployed learners with practical, future-ready digital competencies that respond to current and emerging labour market needs.
Applications are now open, with all submissions required by 30 August 2026 at 23:59.
Programme Overview
| Programme | FASSET Digital Skills Programme 2026/2027 |
|---|---|
| Programme Type | Training Provider Funding Opportunity |
| Funding Organisation | Finance and Accounting Services SETA (FASSET) |
| Eligible Applicants | Accredited Training Service Providers |
| Target Beneficiaries | Unemployed Learners |
| Programme Focus | Digital Skills Development |
| Application Method | Email Submission |
| Submission Email | digitalskills@fasset.org.za |
| Closing Date | 30 August 2026 |
| Closing Time | 23:59 (SAST) |
Key Highlights
- FASSET has launched its Digital Skills Programme 2026/2027 funding call.
- Accredited training providers are invited to submit funding applications.
- The programme aims to equip unemployed South Africans with digital and technology-related skills.
- Funding supports the delivery of industry-relevant digital training programmes.
- Applications close on 30 August 2026 at 23:59.
- Applications must be submitted via digitalskills@fasset.org.za.
Supporting South Africa’s Digital Skills Agenda
Digital technologies continue to transform industries across South Africa, creating strong demand for workers who possess modern digital competencies. From finance and accounting to business services, employers increasingly require professionals who can work confidently with digital systems, data, automation and cloud-based technologies.
Recognising this shift, FASSET has introduced the Digital Skills Programme to expand access to accredited training that prepares unemployed learners for opportunities in the digital economy.
Rather than funding learners directly, the initiative provides financial support to accredited training providers capable of delivering high-quality programmes aligned with industry requirements.
This collaborative approach enables more learners to access relevant training while helping employers build a workforce equipped for the future.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to accredited training service providers that meet FASSET’s funding and accreditation requirements.
Eligible providers should have the capacity to:
- Deliver accredited digital skills programmes.
- Train unemployed learners.
- Meet FASSET’s reporting and compliance obligations.
- Implement quality learning interventions aligned with industry standards.
Only complete applications submitted before the closing date will be considered.
Purpose of the Programme
The Digital Skills Programme has several key objectives, including:
- Expanding access to accredited digital skills training.
- Preparing unemployed learners for the modern workplace.
- Addressing digital skills shortages within the economy.
- Supporting South Africa’s digital transformation strategy.
- Improving employment opportunities through practical, industry-focused training.
- Strengthening partnerships between FASSET and accredited training providers.
Skills That May Be Covered
Although individual training programmes may vary, digital skills initiatives commonly include areas such as:
- Digital Literacy
- Microsoft Office Applications
- Data Analysis
- Cloud Computing Fundamentals
- Cybersecurity Awareness
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Fundamentals
- Business Information Systems
- Digital Communication
- Financial Technology (FinTech)
- Project Collaboration Tools
Training providers are expected to deliver programmes that align with labour market demand and industry expectations.
Why This Funding Opportunity Matters
South Africa continues to face a shortage of digital skills while youth unemployment remains one of the country’s most pressing socio-economic challenges.
By investing in accredited training providers, FASSET aims to create more opportunities for unemployed learners to gain practical skills that improve employability.
Digital skills are increasingly becoming essential across sectors including:
- Finance
- Accounting
- Banking
- Auditing
- Insurance
- Business Process Outsourcing
- Information Technology
- Professional Services
The programme contributes to the development of a workforce that is better prepared for technological change and evolving employer requirements.
Benefits for Accredited Training Providers
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to:
- Deliver nationally relevant digital skills programmes.
- Support unemployed learners with industry-recognised training.
- Contribute to national skills development priorities.
- Build partnerships with FASSET.
- Expand their training delivery portfolio.
- Help address critical digital skills shortages.
How to Apply
Accredited training providers should prepare all required documentation before submitting their applications.
Submit Applications To
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid delays caused by technical or administrative issues.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | Now Open |
| Closing Date | 30 August 2026 |
| Closing Time | 23:59 (South African Standard Time) |
Late submissions may not be considered.
What This Means for the Skills Development Sector
The Digital Skills Programme represents another important investment in South Africa’s skills development system.
For accredited training providers, it offers an opportunity to contribute directly to national development priorities while helping unemployed South Africans gain practical digital competencies needed in today’s economy.
For learners, the programme has the potential to increase access to high-quality digital training that improves career prospects in both traditional and emerging industries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for this funding opportunity?
Only accredited training service providers that satisfy FASSET’s funding requirements.
Who will benefit from the programme?
The funded programmes are intended to train unemployed learners with practical digital skills that improve employability.
Does FASSET provide funding directly to learners?
No. This funding call is specifically for accredited training service providers that will deliver digital skills programmes.
When do applications close?
Applications close on 30 August 2026 at 23:59.
Where should applications be submitted?
Applications must be emailed to:
Key Takeaways
The FASSET Digital Skills Programme 2026/2027 provides accredited training providers with an opportunity to secure funding for delivering digital skills programmes that prepare unemployed South Africans for the future of work.
As demand for digital competencies continues to grow across industries, initiatives such as this play an important role in strengthening workforce readiness, improving employability and supporting South Africa’s long-term economic development.
Eligible providers are encouraged to complete and submit their applications before 30 August 2026 at 23:59.
Editorial Policy
This article is based on information released by the Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET). It has been independently researched, fact-checked and human-edited to ensure accuracy and compliance with Google’s E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness and Trustworthiness) guidelines. Readers are encouraged to consult the official FASSET funding call and application documents for complete eligibility criteria, funding conditions and submission requirements.
Sources and References
- Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET)
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
- National Skills Development Plan (NSDP) 2030
- South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
- Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO)
- Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998)
