Ekapa Apprenticeship Requirements, Application and Closing Dates

Ekapa Mining (formerly known as Kimberley Ekapa) is a major diamond-mining company situated in Kimberley, Northern Cape. 

Through its apprenticeship programme the company offers young South Africans a hands-on route into in-demand trades within the mining sector. 

About the Ekapa Apprenticeship Programme

The apprenticeship programme at Ekapa is designed to develop technical artisan skills in the mining-industry context. 

Apprentices rotate between workplace training (on-the-job) at Ekapa operations and theoretical training at an accredited technical training centre.

The programme typically spans three years and leads to a recognised trade qualification.

Which trades are eligible?

Ekapa offers apprenticeships in a range of practical trades, including:

1. Auto Electrician
2. Boilermaker
3. C&I Mechanician (Control & Instrumentation Mechanic)
4. Diesel Mechanic / Earth-Moving Mechanic
5. Electrical Artisan
6. Fitter & Turner
7. Rigger / Ropesman

Because trades and numbers may change each year, applicants should check the current advertisement to confirm eligible trades for 2026.

Eligibility requirements

To apply for the 2026 intake of the Ekapa Apprenticeship Programme you will generally need to meet the following criteria:

1. Be a South African citizen.
2. Have completed at least an N2 certificate (or equivalent technical certificate) or Grade 12 with Maths/Science for the trade you are applying to.
3. Have a genuine interest in a technical trade and enjoy working with your hands.
4. Be disciplined, motivated and committed to complete the multi-year programme.
5. Preference is often given to applicants from Ekapa’s host labour-sending area (the Frances Baard District Municipality) and to previously disadvantaged individuals.

What does the apprenticeship cover?

While exact details for 2026 may vary, previous programme information shows:

1. A structured three-year training programme combining theoretical training and practical on-the-job work.
2. Accredited training at a Mining Qualifications Training Centre as determined by Ekapa.
3. After successful completion of the apprenticeship you receive a national trade qualification, which significantly improves job prospects in the mining and engineering sectors.

How to apply 

Here are the general steps to apply:

1. Monitor Ekapa’s official website (“Youth Development” or “Work for Us” sections) or recruitment portal for the advertisement of the 2026 apprenticeship intake.
2. Complete the application form (downloadable from Ekapa’s site) and prepare supporting certified documents: ID copy, certificates (N2 or Matric), CV, proof of residence.
3. Submit your application by the method specified in the advert (usually email) before the closing date. Make sure the subject line and reference number (if given) are correct.
4. If shortlisted you may undergo pre-screening: technical aptitude test, medical test, security clearance, interview.
5. Keep copies of your application materials and monitor communications from Ekapa regarding your application status.

What the selection committee will consider

In selecting apprentices, Ekapa will evaluate:

1. Whether you meet eligibility criteria (citizenship, qualifications, residence).
2. Your academic results and your interest in the trade discipline.
3. Your attitude, discipline and commitment to complete the programme.
4. Whether you reside in the host labour-sending area or meet preference criteria.
5. Your performance in any aptitude assessments, interviews and pre-screening steps.

Closing Date

For previous years the closing date for applications has been early in the intake year (for example: 1 November 2023 for the 2024 intake).

For the 2026 intake you should apply as soon as the call opens and before the stated closing date on the advert.

Late and incomplete applications are typically not considered.