Impactful’s Artificial Intelligence Software Developer Learnership 2026 gives Grade 12 learners a structured path into coding, machine learning and intelligent application development. The MICT SETA-aligned Occupational Certificate carries 209 credits at National Qualifications Framework Level 5 under SAQA ID 118792 and combines technical study, practical development and workplace experience.
Candidates need Grade 12 at National Qualifications Framework Level 4 and basic computer understanding. However, Impactful has not announced a public closing date, stipend, fixed duration or number of funded learner spaces.
How far can Grade 12 take learners into artificial intelligence development?
This qualification starts with foundational computing concepts before progressing towards machine learning, neural networks and intelligent software development.
Therefore, it offers more than a short introduction to artificial intelligence. Learners will study how to design, build, test, deploy and maintain intelligent applications.
The programme follows the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations framework, while MICT SETA serves as the Assessment Quality Partner.
Successful learners receive the Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer. The qualification carries 209 credits and uses Learnership Q-number 32Q320159262095.
It may support progression towards roles such as:
- Artificial Intelligence Developer
- Machine Learning Developer
- Artificial Intelligence Software Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Business Intelligence Developer
- Artificial Intelligence Technician
Although the programme welcomes learners who are new to information technology, candidates must prepare for a technically demanding curriculum.
Who is the programme designed to support?
The learnership suits school leavers, new technology entrants and professionals who want to move into artificial intelligence.
It may benefit:
- Grade 12 learners interested in coding and intelligent technologies
- School leavers considering software development
- Individuals moving into the technology sector
- Software professionals developing artificial intelligence skills
- Employees seeking formal recognition of existing technical abilities
- Organisations investing in automation and data-driven solutions
The programme does not introduce an age limit, provincial restriction, citizenship condition or unemployment requirement.
Additionally, learners do not need a previous information technology qualification. However, they should feel comfortable using a computer and be willing to develop their mathematical and programming abilities.
What must candidates have before starting?
Impactful lists the following entry requirements:
- Grade 12
- A qualification at National Qualifications Framework Level 4
- Basic computer understanding
Previous coding experience does not appear as a compulsory requirement.
Nevertheless, candidates with some exposure to mathematics, spreadsheets or programming may find it easier to adjust to the curriculum.
Recognition of Prior Learning may also provide an alternative route for people with relevant education or workplace experience. Impactful will need to assess these candidates through the appropriate process.
The national qualification record lists 31 December 2026 as the final date for enrolment and 31 December 2029 as the final date for achievement.
However, 31 December 2026 is not an Impactful application deadline. Prospective learners must confirm the provider’s next intake date directly.
What technical foundations will learners develop?
The qualification divides its 209 credits across knowledge, practical skills and workplace experience.
The knowledge component introduces learners to:
- Artificial intelligence concepts and applications
- Mathematics, linear algebra, calculus and statistics
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving
- Data processing and data visualisation
- Databases and data mining
- Structured Query Language
- Programming principles and algorithms
- Python programming
- Machine learning and deep learning
- TensorFlow and Keras
- Governance, ethics and data security
- Design thinking and innovation
- Communication and future workplace skills
As a result, learners develop more than coding ability. They also learn how to understand a problem, analyse data and choose an appropriate technical solution.
What will learners build during practical training?
The practical component carries 63 credits and moves learners from theory into active software development.
Learners will use Python, Structured Query Language and machine learning tools to:
- Source, clean and analyse data
- Visualise information with spreadsheets and artificial intelligence tools
- Communicate with databases
- Scrape data and populate database tables
- Build a basic artificial intelligence solution
- Train and test machine learning models
- Develop a neural network architecture in Python
- Build deep-learning solutions with TensorFlow
- Turn a working prototype into a viable product
- Apply design thinking to technical problems
Moreover, learners will practise selecting appropriate algorithms, preparing datasets and measuring model accuracy.
They will also learn how to collaborate with software developers, data professionals and business teams.
Why does the programme require workplace experience?
The qualification allocates 60 credits to workplace experience. Therefore, learners cannot complete the programme through classroom study alone.
Workplace training covers three major development areas:
- Artificial intelligence solution design and development
- Artificial intelligence solution performance testing
- Solution deployment, modification and improvement
During this stage, learners may analyse business processes, review existing artificial intelligence solutions and interpret design documentation.
They may also:
- Write modular and reusable software code
- Create test cases and automated scripts
- Debug code and fix software errors
- Test model performance and accuracy
- Deploy solutions into production environments
- Monitor automated systems through dashboards and logs
- Document technical changes
- Update and improve existing solutions
- Collaborate with cross-functional development teams
Consequently, candidates need access to a workplace with suitable development projects, data, software tools and technical supervision.
The workplace should provide:
- Legally licensed development software
- Relevant company systems, documents and data
- Artificial intelligence development projects
- Occupational health and safety compliance
- Ethical clearance where a project requires it
- A mentor with at least two years of software development experience
Ideally, one mentor should support no more than three learners.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: Do not underestimate the curriculum because Grade 12 is the minimum entry requirement. Start reviewing Python, algebra, statistics and databases before training begins. Also confirm who will provide the workplace projects and technical mentor, because both form part of the qualification.
How will learners prove their technical competence?
Impactful assesses learners throughout the knowledge, practical and workplace components.
First, learners must complete the required internal assessments. They must also submit formal evidence confirming their workplace activities.
Once they complete every compulsory component, learners can proceed to the External Integrated Summative Assessment.
An accredited assessment centre conducts this final assessment. It may include theoretical questions, practical development tasks and simulated workplace activities.
Therefore, attending training sessions does not automatically lead to certification. Learners must complete every module, submit workplace evidence and pass the final external assessment.
Which training options could be available?
Impactful provides different delivery options for learners and employer groups.
Depending on the intake, training may take place through:
- Classroom sessions in Johannesburg
- Virtual instructor-led training
- On-site training for employer groups nationwide
However, candidates should confirm which option applies to the intake they are considering.
Virtual learners may also need a suitable computer, stable internet connection and permission to install Python or other development software.
How can candidates request 2026 enrolment information?
Prospective learners and employers can submit an enquiry through the official Impactful programme page.
Alternatively, enquiries can be directed to impactful@lrmg.co.za or +27 87 941 5764.
Before submitting personal documents or committing to the programme, candidates should confirm:
- The next available intake date
- The expected completion period
- Whether Impactful accepts individual enrolments
- Whether the intake has external or employer funding
- Whether funded learners will receive a stipend
- The available training format
- Computer and software requirements
- Workplace placement arrangements
- Technical mentoring requirements
- Documents required for enrolment
Impactful has not published a confirmed stipend or public closing date. Therefore, candidates should request written confirmation of all enrolment and funding arrangements.
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Final Thoughts
The Impactful Artificial Intelligence Software Developer Learnership 2026 offers a substantial technical route into intelligent application development.
Its combination of Python programming, databases, mathematics, machine learning, deep learning and workplace projects gives learners a structured foundation for developing practical artificial intelligence solutions.
However, candidates should prepare for the programme’s technical demands. They must also confirm the intake date, duration, funding, workplace support and assessment arrangements directly with Impactful.
