A Guide to TVET Occupational Qualifications for 2026

If you’re exploring career options, considering a skills-based path, or thinking about changing professions, this list could be your starting point. The latest TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) Occupational Qualifications for 2026 are here, and they reflect a powerful mix of timeless trades and cutting-edge tech roles.

Whether you’re drawn to the hands-on world of craftsmanship or the digital frontier of software and cybersecurity, there’s a structured, quality-assured pathway waiting for you.

Traditional Trades Meet Modern Innovation

This list beautifully balances essential hands-on professions with the jobs of tomorrow. You’ll find familiar and vital trades that keep our economy moving:

• Beauty Therapist (SAQA ID 121607)
• Cook (SAQA ID 102296)
• Panel Beater (SAQA ID 96364)
• Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic (SAQA ID 103219)

Right alongside them are roles born from the digital revolution:

• Artificial Intelligence Software Developer (SAQA ID 118792)
• Cybersecurity Analyst (SAQA ID 118986)
• Internet of Things Developer (SAQA ID 119262)
• Cloud Administration (SAQA ID 118699)

This shows a clear direction: vocational training is evolving, ensuring learners are prepared for both stable trade careers and high-growth tech industries.

How to Use This List: Your SAQA ID is Your Key

Next to each occupation, you’ll see a SAQA ID. This is the unique identifier registered with the South African Qualifications Authority. Why is it important?

• Assured Quality: Any program linked to this ID meets national standards.
• Recognition: Qualifications are nationally recognized, improving employment and mobility.
• Clarity: It helps you verify the exact qualification when enquiring at colleges.

Always ask for the SAQA ID when exploring courses, it’s your guarantee of legitimacy and relevance.

Highlights & Opportunities

Looking at the list, several exciting trends and opportunities stand out:

1. The Digital Frontier is Accessible: Roles like AI Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, and IoT Developer are no longer confined to university degrees. TVET pathways now provide direct routes into these high-demand, well-paying fields.
2. Business & Administration Backbone: From Bookkeeper to Office Administrator and Management Assistant, these roles remain the operational heart of every company and offer stable, versatile careers.
3. Logistics & Supply Chain Strength: With Supply Chain Practitioner, Freight Handler, and Clearing Agent listed, it’s clear that qualifying in logistics is a smart move for a connected global economy.
4. Growing Service Sectors: Tourism, Events, Fitness, and Retail are all represented, highlighting diverse opportunities in South Africa’s vibrant service industry.

Your Next Step: From List to Enrollment

Seeing the opportunity is the first step. Here’s how to take the next one:

“Visit your nearest TVET College campus to check if they offer these quality-assured Occupational Qualifications!”

This is the most important instruction. Don’t just browse online.

1. Choose 2-3 occupations that spark your interest from the list.
2. Note their SAQA IDs (e.g., 118792 for AI Developer).
3. Contact or visit your local TVET college and ask specifically: “Do you offer the Occupational Qualification for [Career Name] under SAQA ID [Number]?”
4. Ask about entry requirements, duration, costs, and potential workplace learning components.

Why Consider a TVET Occupational Qualification?

• Employability: These programs are designed with industry input to ensure you learn the skills employers need.
• Earn While You Learn: Many include practical workplace components.
• Career-Focused: They lead directly to a specific occupation, avoiding overly theoretical training.
• Foundation for Growth: They can be a starting point for further specialization or entrepreneurship.

The 2026 TVET occupational list is more than just careers, it’s a map of where the workforce is heading. Whether your passion is creating with your hands, organizing systems, or building digital solutions, there’s a formal, recognized pathway to get you there.

Find your future on the list, grab your SAQA ID, and start the conversation at a TVET college near you.