Finding a job in South Africa is not easy, especially for young people without experience or formal qualifications. Many youth finish school but struggle to enter industries like mining because they lack recognised training.
Evander Gold Mines has now opened a Competent B Gold Mining Training Programme for 2026, giving unemployed youth in the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality a chance to gain valuable underground mining skills.
This programme is not just about learning theory. It is designed to prepare young people for real underground mining environments and help them become work-ready in just three months.
If you are between 18 and 35 years old and looking for a practical career path, this could be an important opportunity.
What Is the Competent B Training Programme?
Competent B is a recognised entry-level mining qualification in South Africa. It shows that a person understands the basic rules and safety requirements needed to work underground in a gold mine.
Mining is a high-risk environment. Workers must follow strict safety laws under the Mine Health and Safety Act (MHSA). This training ensures that participants understand:
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Underground safety rules
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Basic mining operations
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Hazard identification
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Risk prevention
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Safe use of mining tools
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Workplace health and safety standards
After successful completion, learners receive a certificate that is accepted across the South African gold mining industry.
Who Is This Programme For?
This opportunity is specifically created for:
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Youth aged 18 to 35
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Residents of Govan Mbeki Local Municipality
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Individuals who are unemployed
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People with at least Grade 10 education
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Candidates who are medically fit for underground work
Preference is given to unemployed youth because the programme focuses on community upliftment and skills development.
If you live outside the municipality, you may not qualify, as proof of residence is required.
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Why This Opportunity Matters
Mining plays a major role in South Africa’s economy. However, without proper certification, it is difficult to enter the industry.
Many mining jobs require at least basic competency training. This programme helps bridge that gap.
It addresses two major problems:
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Youth unemployment
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Skills shortages in mining
By training local youth, Evander Mines helps strengthen both the community and the industry.
What You Will Learn
The training programme includes both classroom learning and practical training.
Theoretical Training
You will learn about:
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Mine Health and Safety Act regulations
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Underground mining principles
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Risk assessment
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Hazard identification
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Safe communication procedures
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Workplace compliance
Understanding these rules is very important because safety is the number one priority in mining.
Practical Training
Practical learning includes:
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Using mining tools safely
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Working in underground environments
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Understanding equipment basics
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Applying safety procedures in real situations
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Completing assessments
Participants must pass both theoretical and practical evaluations before receiving certification.
Duration of the Programme
The training lasts for three months.
This short duration allows youth to gain recognised skills quickly without long-term study commitments.
In just 90 days, you can gain a qualification that improves your employability in the mining sector.
Stipend Support During Training
Participants will receive a monthly stipend.
However, there are important conditions:
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You must attend training regularly
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You must actively participate
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Poor attendance may affect payment
The stipend helps cover basic expenses while learners focus on completing the programme successfully.
Important: This Is Training, Not Guaranteed Employment
It is important to understand that:
This programme provides training only.
Completing the course does not guarantee a job at Evander Gold Mines.
However, the certificate improves your chances of finding employment in the mining industry.
Medical Fitness Requirement
Underground mining is physically demanding.
Applicants must be:
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Physically strong
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Medically fit
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Comfortable working underground
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Able to handle physically active environments
Medical screening may take place before training begins.
Documents Required to Apply
Applicants must submit:
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Updated CV
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Certified copy of ID
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Proof of residence
All documents must be clear and properly certified.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
How to Apply
Send your application via email to:
For enquiries, contact:
Tshepo Mosiane
(017) 620 1685
Closing Date: 03 March 2026
If you do not receive feedback within 14 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
If you plan to apply, keep these tips in mind:
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Prepare a neat and simple CV
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Highlight physical fitness and teamwork
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Show discipline and willingness to learn
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Ensure documents are certified
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Apply before the deadline
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Be honest about your qualifications
Mining companies value discipline, safety awareness, and responsibility.
Career Opportunities After Completing Competent B
Once certified, you may apply for:
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Entry-level underground mining roles
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Mine assistant positions
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Safety-related roles
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Further mining training programmes
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Apprenticeships in mining trades
With experience and additional training, you can grow into:
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Miner
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Shift supervisor
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Safety officer
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Technical specialist
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Operations supervisor
Many successful mining professionals started with basic competency training.
Community Impact
This programme benefits not only individuals but also the community.
It:
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Creates a pool of trained local workers
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Supports youth empowerment
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Improves local employment readiness
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Strengthens the local economy
When young people gain skills, communities become stronger.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent job?
No. It is a training programme.
Do I need Matric?
No. Grade 10 is the minimum requirement.
Is the certificate recognised?
Yes. It is recognised in the South African gold mining industry.
Will I receive money during training?
Yes. A monthly stipend is provided, depending on attendance.
Who can apply?
Youth aged 18–35 living in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality.
How long is the training?
Three months.
Final Thoughts
The Evander Mines Competent B Training Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for unemployed youth to gain recognised mining skills in a short time.
While it does not guarantee employment, it provides an important stepping stone into the mining industry.
If you are serious about building a practical career, physically fit, and willing to work underground, this programme could open new doors for you.
Prepare carefully.
Submit your documents early.
And approach this opportunity with dedication and discipline.
Rajani Kant
Content Writer | South Africa & Namibia
Rajani Kant is an experienced content writer with over 7 years of expertise
in covering News of South Africa, Namibia, and other African countries.
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