The City of Johannesburg Free Skills Development Programmes 2026 offer residents no-cost vocational and technical training opportunities designed to enhance employability, encourage self-reliance, and support small business development. These programmes are a key part of the City’s strategy to reduce unemployment, fight poverty, and promote economic inclusion. COJ Free Skills Development Programmes 2026
About Johannesburg and Its Skills Development Focus
Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest metropolitan municipality and a hub for commerce, industry, and innovation. Recognizing the importance of skill development for economic growth, the City has implemented these free programmes to equip residents—especially youth, women, and unemployed community members—with practical skills that improve job readiness and entrepreneurial potential.
The City’s pro-poor development initiatives aim to make training accessible, affordable, and relevant, supporting both personal and economic empowerment.
Overview of the COJ Free Skills Development Programmes 2026
The 2026 programme focuses on providing practical, job-relevant skills. Key highlights include:
- No-cost training: Beneficiaries do not pay for courses. Training is delivered through City-owned centres and accredited training providers.
- Target groups: Youth, women, unemployed residents, and anyone seeking to gain practical skills for income generation.
- Regional accessibility: Courses are available across multiple Johannesburg regions to ensure widespread access.
- Diverse skill offerings: Programs cover vocational, technical, and entrepreneurial skills.
Residents can enrol in programmes according to local demand and centre availability.
Types of COJ Free Skills Development Programmes 2026 Training Available
Depending on regional demand and centre capacity, the City of Johannesburg provides training in areas including:
- Vocational and Technical Skills: Plumbing, basic baking, sewing, arts and crafts, jewellery making, beading, tie-and-dye.
- Business and Management Skills: Generic management, entrepreneurship, financial literacy.
- Digital and Workplace Skills: Computer training, basic first aid, and soft skills for employment readiness.
These programmes are designed to develop both technical expertise and workplace-ready soft skills, giving participants the tools to succeed in employment or self-employment ventures.
Related Opportunities 2026
• Funding Bursaries
• Youth Opportunities
• Internship Programme
• Learnership Programme
• Online Courses
How the Programmes Are Delivered-COJ Free Skills Development Programmes 2026
The City ensures high-quality delivery of training through:
- Fully equipped skills centres located across Johannesburg.
- Partnerships with accredited training providers who manage course delivery at no cost to learners.
- Continuous enrolment and ongoing training opportunities, subject to availability.
- Inclusive access that prioritizes underserved communities.
Skills Development Centres by Region
The City of Johannesburg offers training through a network of regional centres. Key contact points include:
Region A – Midrand and Diepsloot
- Diepsloot Skills Centre – 383 Ngonyama Road, Diepsloot | Contact: Yvonne Phogole – 082 497 0346
- Center for Skills at Rabie Ridge – Corner Koraan & Kraai Avenue | Contact: Yvonne Phogole – 082 497 0346
Region B – Westbury & Randburg
- TDC Children Services (Riverlea) – Colaradi Drive, Riverlea | Contact: Ntsoaki Molefe – 073 601 0156
- Techno Centre (Randburg) – Corner Bram Fischer & Jan Smuts Road | Contact: Ntsoaki Molefe – 073 601 0156
Region C – Roodepoort & Surrounds
- Tshepisong Skills Centre – 5903 Phase 4 | Contact: Dorah Mashita – 082 332 6805
- Leratong Training Centre & Mathole Training Center – Roodepoort Civic Center | Contact: Dorah Mashita – 082 332 6805
- Cosmo City Skills Centre – Stand 2633, Angola Avenue & South Africa Drive | Contact: Dorah Mashita – 082 332 6805
Region D – Soweto
- Pimville Skills Centre – 2943/50 Modjadji Street | Contact: Phindi Erasmus – 011 528 8500
- Welfare Center Sam Tambani (Meadowlands) – Zone 9, Maseru Street | Contact: Phindi Erasmus – 011 528 8500
- Center for Welfare at Diepkloof – Zone 1, 13141 Martinus Smuts Drive | Contact: Phindi Erasmus – 011 528 8500
- Orlando Skills Centre – 1425 Sofasonke Street, Orlando East | Contact: Phindi Erasmus – 011 528 8500
- Chiawelo, Tladi & Jabavu Skills Centres – Various addresses | Contact: Phindi Erasmus – 011 528 8500
Region E – Alexandra & Orange Grove
- Klipfontein Skills Centre – 1109 Lekoa Street | Contact: Lebo Mathope – 082 467 9442
- Sports and Recreation Centre & Center for Skills in Orange Grove – Corner Louis Botha Avenue & 13th Street | Contact: Lebo Mathope – 082 467 9442
Region F – Johannesburg South & East
- Bertrams Skills Centre – 46 Bertrams Road | Contact: Meshack Maluleke – 083 397 6601
- Pioneer Park Skills Centre – 10 Bertha Street, Rosettenville | Contact: Meshack Maluleke – 083 397 6601
- South Hills Skills Centre – Corner Lindley & Geneva Streets | Contact: Meshack Maluleke – 083 397 6601
Region G – Orange Farm & Ennerdale
- Orange Farm Skills Centre – 9125, Extension 5 | Contact: Daniel Selomo – 011 850 1047
- Vlakfontein & Poortjie Skills Centres – Various addresses | Contact: Daniel Selomo – 011 850 1047
- Ennerdale & Zakheni Skills Centres – Corner Katz & Smith Walk Roads | Contact: Daniel Selomo – 011 850 1047
How to Enrol and Acquire More Information: COJ Free Skills Development Programmes 2026
Residents interested in the programmes should contact their nearest skills centre directly to:
- Check available courses
- Confirm entry requirements
- Obtain enrolment schedules
Program availability may vary by region and training provider, so early enquiry is recommended.
Learn more: City of Johannesburg Free Skills Development Programmes 2026
Benefits of the Programme
- Cost-free training removes financial barriers.
- Practical skills improve employability and entrepreneurship.
- Regional access ensures inclusion for residents from all communities.
- Accredited courses add credibility and quality assurance.
- Ongoing opportunities allow learners to develop multiple skills over time.
FAQs About the COJ Free Skills Development Programmes 2026
Q1: Who is eligible for these programmes?
A1: The programmes are open to youth, women, unemployed residents, and anyone seeking practical skills for employment or business development.
Q2: Are the courses really free?
A2: Yes. All training is delivered at no cost to the learner.
Q3: How long do courses last?
A3: Course duration varies depending on the skill area, ranging from a few weeks to several months.
Q4: Can I enrol online?
A4: Enrolment is typically done by contacting the nearest skills centre, where staff will provide full guidance.
Q5: Are the skills programmes accredited?
A5: Yes. Training is delivered in partnership with accredited providers to ensure quality and recognition.
Conclusion
The COJ Free Skills Development Programmes 2026 provide a unique opportunity for residents to acquire valuable, job-ready skills at no cost. By offering training across multiple regions and industries, the City supports employability, entrepreneurship, and financial independence.
For those looking to improve their skills, start a business, or re-enter the workforce, these programmes offer a practical and accessible pathway toward personal growth and economic empowerment.
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
