Discover how the BANKSETA Finance Learning Programme equips South Africans with financial, banking, and business skills. Learn more.
BANKSETA Finance Learning Programme – Shaping South Africa’s Financial Future
Money and finance are the heartbeat of every economy. From saving and investing to building businesses and funding innovation, finance ensures that opportunities grow and communities thrive.
In South Africa, the financial services sector plays a critical role in shaping jobs, growth, and innovation. But to succeed, it needs skilled, knowledgeable, and adaptable professionals. That’s where the BANKSETA Finance Learning Programme comes in.
The BANKSETA (Banking Sector Education and Training Authority) was created to build skills for the financial services sector—banking, microfinance, credit, and insurance. Its finance learning programmes equip learners with technical expertise, workplace readiness, and leadership capacity.
For young South Africans looking for opportunities, the BANKSETA programme is more than just training—it’s a gateway to a career in finance.
What Is BANKSETA?
BANKSETA is one of South Africa’s 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). Each SETA focuses on skills development for a specific sector, and BANKSETA is dedicated to:
- Banking and microfinance
- Credit and risk management
- Financial literacy and customer services
- Leadership and management training
Through its programmes, BANKSETA works with:
- Universities and TVET Colleges – offering bursaries and academic pathways.
- Banks and financial institutions – creating internships and workplace opportunities.
- Communities – improving financial literacy and inclusion.
Why the BANKSETA Finance Learning Programme Matters
South Africa faces challenges such as:
- Youth unemployment – Millions of young people are jobless.
- Skills shortages – The financial sector needs people trained in risk, compliance, and digital finance.
- Inequality – Many communities remain excluded from access to financial services.
The BANKSETA Finance Learning Programme is designed to bridge these gaps by:
- Giving learners marketable skills in finance and banking.
- Supporting access to jobs, bursaries, and workplace experience.
- Promoting inclusive growth, where financial literacy reaches every community.
Types of BANKSETA Finance Learning Programmes
The finance learning programme includes different pathways depending on your level of study and career interests.
Learnerships
Structured, 12–24 month programmes combining classroom training and workplace experience. Examples:
- National Certificate in Banking (NQF Level 5).
- Credit Management Learnerships.
Internships and Graduate Programmes
For university graduates, BANKSETA funds opportunities in banking, risk, and compliance, helping youth gain practical exposure in real finance jobs.
Bursaries
BANKSETA provides bursaries to students studying:
- Banking and finance.
- Accounting and auditing.
- Risk and compliance.
- Economics and financial management.
Skills Programmes
Short courses in:
- Financial literacy.
- Customer service in banking.
- Microfinance management.
Leadership and Management Training
Programmes designed to build future leaders in the financial sector, focusing on ethics, decision-making, and strategic thinking.
Skills Learners Gain in BANKSETA Finance Programmes
- Financial literacy and money management.
- Risk and compliance knowledge.
- Customer service in financial institutions.
- Digital banking skills (mobile banking, fintech basics).
- Entrepreneurship and microfinance management.
These skills prepare learners to work, innovate, or start businesses in finance.
Success Stories from the BANKSETA Finance Learning Programme
Case Study 1: Sipho – From Township to Bank Teller
Sipho grew up in a township where financial opportunities were limited. After completing the BANKSETA learnership in banking, he secured a job as a bank teller. Today, he is studying part-time for a BCom in Finance.
Case Study 2: Thandi – Building a Career in Risk Management
Thandi received a BANKSETA bursary to study Accounting. After completing her degree, she joined an internship in compliance and now works as a junior risk analyst.
Case Study 3: Musa – Entrepreneur with a Microfinance Business
Musa joined a skills programme in microfinance. Using his knowledge, he started a small lending business that helps local shop owners access funding.
These stories show how BANKSETA empowers employment, growth, and entrepreneurship.
Benefits of BANKSETA Finance Learning Programmes
For learners:
- Free or subsidized training and bursaries.
- Real workplace experience.
- Better employability in finance jobs.
- Networking opportunities with financial institutions.
For communities:
- Financial literacy training that empowers households.
- Support for entrepreneurship and small businesses.
- More inclusive access to banking and finance.
For industries:
- A skilled workforce ready to handle digital banking.
- Stronger compliance and ethical practices.
- Leadership capacity for the future.
Challenges Facing BANKSETA Finance Programmes
Despite progress, challenges remain:
- Awareness gaps – Many youth don’t know about these programmes.
- Limited slots – High demand means not everyone is placed.
- Digital access – Some learners lack internet or devices for e-learning.
- Dropouts – Economic and personal struggles affect completion.
BANKSETA is working with banks, colleges, and government to expand access and provide support like stipends and online learning tools.
The Future of BANKSETA Finance Learning
The financial industry is rapidly evolving, especially with the rise of fintech, AI, and digital banking. BANKSETA is preparing learners for:
- Fintech innovation – apps, payment systems, and blockchain.
- Cybersecurity in finance.
- Green finance and sustainable banking.
- Global financial compliance standards.
- Digital-first customer service.
This ensures learners are future-ready and can compete in a global economy.
How to Apply for the BANKSETA Finance Learning Programme
- Decide your pathway – bursary, learnership, or internship.
- Visit the BANKSETA website or partner institutions.
- Prepare documents – ID, matric certificate, CV, proof of residence, academic records.
- Apply before deadlines.
- Stay committed – the programme requires dedication and discipline.
Tips for Success in BANKSETA Programmes
- Stay curious – finance is always evolving.
- Build soft skills – communication and teamwork are vital.
- Network actively – connect with mentors and peers.
- Keep learning – even after the programme, upskill through short courses.
- Think entrepreneurial – finance knowledge can help you start or manage a business.
Key Takeaways
- BANKSETA equips South Africans with finance and banking skills.
- Programmes include bursaries, learnerships, internships, and skills training.
- Learners gain technical and workplace-ready skills.
- Success stories show how BANKSETA creates jobs, careers, and entrepreneurs.
- The future of BANKSETA lies in digital banking, fintech, and global compliance.
Conclusion – Empowering South Africa Through Finance
The BANKSETA Finance Learning Programme is more than education—it’s about empowering futures, unlocking potential, and building communities.
By investing in skills, creating pathways to jobs, and supporting entrepreneurship, BANKSETA is preparing South Africans for a future where finance drives opportunity, innovation, and inclusion.
For young people eager to enter the finance world, BANKSETA is not just an opportunity—it’s a stepping stone to success.