The Banking Sector Education and Training Authority (BANKSETA), in partnership with Masithuthuke Holdings, is offering a fully funded, three-day online training programme in Micro-Finance/Core Skills for Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMEs) and cooperatives operating in or entering the financial services space. The programme equips businesses with the operational, legal, and ethical foundations needed to deliver compliant, efficient, and sustainable micro-finance services. Registration closes on 2 February 2026, with training scheduled for 17–19 February 2026.
This initiative is designed to strengthen institutional capacity—not individual professionals—by empowering entire organisations with certified, industry-aligned knowledge.
What Your Organisation Will Gain
Participants from SMEs and cooperatives will develop practical capabilities in:
- Daily Operations Management: Streamlining loan processing, client onboarding, collections, and record-keeping
- Process Implementation: Establishing standardised, scalable workflows for consistent service delivery
- Legal and Ethical Compliance: Understanding the National Credit Act, POPIA, FSCA guidelines, and ethical lending practices
The curriculum is aligned with NQF Level 3 and 4 unit standards and delivered through interactive virtual sessions tailored for business teams.
Who Should Apply? SMEs and Cooperatives in Financial Services
This training is specifically designed for:
- SMEs offering or planning to offer micro-lending, savings, or credit services
- Cooperatives engaged in community finance, stokvels, savings groups, or informal lending
- Organisations seeking to formalise their micro-finance operations with regulatory and operational best practices
- Entities aiming to improve governance, risk management, and customer protection frameworks
The focus is on organisational development, not individual upskilling—applications should be submitted by decision-makers or training coordinators on behalf of their entity.
Programme Structure and Certification
- Format: Live online sessions over three days (17–19 February 2026)
- Content: Three core modules covering business principles, administrative procedures, and legal/ethical requirements
- Certification: Upon completion, participating organisations receive a BANKSETA-recognised certificate of participation
- Cost: Fully funded—no fees for registration, materials, or certification
All sessions are recorded, and resources are provided for internal dissemination within the organisation.
How to Register: Simple and Deadline-Driven
Registration is open until 2 February 2026 and must be completed via the official form:
Spaces are limited, and priority is given to early applicants. Each organisation may register multiple team members.
Related opportunity: Apply Now: Seed to Success: KZN Farmers Accelerator
Why This Matters for Business Growth
In an era of heightened financial regulation and consumer protection, SMEs and cooperatives must operate with integrity, efficiency, and compliance. This training provides the foundational framework to:
- Reduce operational risk
- Build client trust through ethical practices
- Align with national financial inclusion goals
- Prepare for potential licensing or partnership opportunities
By investing in organisational capability, businesses position themselves for long-term sustainability and impact in South Africa’s evolving financial ecosystem.
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