In South Africa’s growing healthcare and social development sectors, the demand for qualified training providers is higher than ever. Whether you operate a nursing school, a community-based training facility, or a skills development centre, registering with the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) is more than a formality—it is the key to recognition, credibility, and national opportunities.
But how do you actually register? What forms are required? Where do you begin?
This step-by-step guide explains the full registration process, highlights the key requirements, and shares practical tips to help you avoid common mistakes.
Understanding HWSETA and Its Role
HWSETA is one of South Africa’s 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). Each SETA is responsible for promoting skills development in a specific sector.
As its name suggests, HWSETA focuses on the health, social development, and veterinary fields. Its functions include:
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Accrediting training providers
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Registering assessors and moderators
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Monitoring the quality of learning programmes
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Allocating funding for learnerships, bursaries, and skills initiatives
If your institution offers training in healthcare, social welfare, or veterinary sciences, registration with HWSETA is mandatory for compliance and credibility.
Who Needs to Register with HWSETA?
Registration applies to the following groups:
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Skills Development Providers offering health-related qualifications
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TVET colleges or private FET institutions in nursing, social work, or auxiliary care
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Organisations delivering accredited learnerships or short skills programmes
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Companies wishing to provide services or supply to HWSETA-funded projects
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Assessors, moderators, or facilitators seeking recognition
While the requirements differ slightly depending on your category, all providers must begin with formal registration.
Step-by-Step: Registering with HWSETA
Step 1: Obtain the Official Registration Form
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The registration form is available from the HWSETA website or at their offices.
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It must be printed, completed manually, and submitted as a signed original.
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Faxed or emailed forms are not accepted.
Step 2: Complete the Form Accurately
You will need to provide:
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Legal name of your institution or company
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Contact details (address, email, phone number)
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Tax clearance certificate details
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Company registration number (CIPC)
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B-BBEE status level
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Details of the training or services you intend to provide
If you are applying as a Skills Development Provider, list the qualifications or unit standards you plan to offer.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
Common requirements include:
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CIPC registration certificate
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Valid tax clearance certificate
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Proof of address
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B-BBEE certificate or affidavit (for small businesses)
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Recent bank confirmation letter (not older than 3 months)
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Certified ID copies of company directors or owners
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Company profile or training proposal
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Proof of physical venue (if applicable)
Ensure that documents are recent, certified where necessary, and easy to read.
Step 4: Submit the Application
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Applications must be hand-delivered or sent by courier to HWSETA’s head office or a regional branch.
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HWSETA does not accept electronic submissions.
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Use a clearly labelled folder and always keep copies of what you submit.
Step 5: Wait for Confirmation
After submission, HWSETA will:
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Log your application and assign a reference number
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Review your documents
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Request additional information if needed
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Provide confirmation of registration or invite you to proceed with accreditation (if required)
If you do not receive feedback within 6–8 weeks, follow up with HWSETA using your reference number.
What Happens After Registration?
Once approved, your organisation will be:
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Listed as a recognised HWSETA service provider
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Eligible to apply for accreditation (if training is involved)
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Allowed to participate in HWSETA-funded projects
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Added to HWSETA’s supplier or training database
This opens opportunities such as delivering learnerships, applying for grants, and gaining credibility with employers and learners.
Registration vs. Accreditation
Many providers confuse the two. Here is the distinction:
| Action | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Registration | Your organisation is officially recognised by HWSETA to operate or engage. |
| Accreditation | Your programmes, facilitators, and materials meet national standards, allowing you to issue accredited certificates. |
Registration is the first step. If you want to deliver training, you must also complete the accreditation process.
Keeping Your Registration Updated
You must inform HWSETA of any changes to:
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Company address or contact details
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Directors or ownership
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B-BBEE status
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Bank details
Failure to update your profile can lead to removal from the database and missed opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Submitting incomplete forms | Delays or rejection |
| Using photocopied signatures | Only originals are accepted |
| Emailing or faxing the form | Not allowed by HWSETA |
| Missing supporting documents | Application will not be processed |
| Not following up | Risk of missed communication |
Contacting HWSETA
For assistance, you can reach HWSETA through:
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Phone: 011 607 6900
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Website: www.hwseta.org.za
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Email: info@hwseta.org.za
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Regional Offices: Locations available on the HWSETA website
Final Thoughts
Registering with HWSETA is the first step toward making an impact in South Africa’s health and welfare sectors. While the process involves paperwork and attention to detail, it provides access to a national network of support, funding opportunities, and long-term credibility.
By securing registration, your organisation positions itself as a trusted provider, capable of contributing to skills development, community upliftment, and the country’s broader social and healthcare goals.
Application Form
