The Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI) was initially established in 2007 by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs under the name South African National Liberation Institute of Technology, Philosophy, and Political Science (SANLITPPS). It was formally incorporated as a non-profit company in 2009, under the Companies Act of 2008, and began operations in 2010.
The Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI) Open Application Window for the Cellphone Repair Programme for the Academic year 2026.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Cellphone Repair Training Programme |
| Location | Durban, KwaZulu-Natal |
| Duration | 4 weeks (Monday to Friday) |
| Training Dates | 23 February – 20 March 2026 |
| Application Closing Date | 16 February 2026 |
Who Should Apply?
- Unemployed KZN residents
- Grade 11 with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- South African ID holders
Benefits:
- Accredited technical training
- Repair toolkit
- Tablet
- Business registration support
- 3 months mentoring and coaching
The Cellphone Repair Programme is delivered through a partnership involving:
- Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI)
- KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs
- KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development
- Human Capital Learning Solutions
These institutions focus on research, skills development, and economic empowerment initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods across KwaZulu-Natal.
Their joint involvement ensures the programme is aligned with:
- Youth development strategies
- Township economy support
- Skills pipeline development
- Entrepreneurship growth
What You Will Learn
Participants will gain hands-on technical training in cellphone diagnostics, maintenance, and repairs.
Training outcomes include:
- Identifying hardware faults
- Replacing screens and batteries
- Software troubleshooting
- Maintenance of mobile devices
- Customer service fundamentals
- Small business basics
Beyond technical skills, the programme integrates entrepreneurship support, ensuring participants can turn skills into income.
READ: 550 Cleaning Vacancies at Lejweleputswa Municipality EPWP Programme 2026
What You Will Receive
This is not just classroom training. The programme equips participants with real tools for success.
You will gain:
- Accredited cellphone repair skills
- Practical hands-on training
- A cellphone repair toolkit
- A tablet for digital learning and business support
- Business registration assistance
- Three months of mentoring and coaching
This combination significantly increases your chances of:
- Starting your own repair service
- Working in a repair shop
- Offering community-based services
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of KwaZulu-Natal
- Be unemployed
- Have a valid South African ID
- Have Grade 11 with Mathematics (40%) or Mathematical Literacy (50%)
- Complete the pre-assessment
Priority consideration:
- Women
- Youth
- Persons with disabilities
Training Details
Start date: 23 February 2026
End date: 20 March 2026
Duration: 4 weeks
Venue:
190 K.E. Masinga Road
MKRI Offices
Durban
Get More Opportunities
Currents South African Vacancies
Apply for Learnerships Programme
How to Apply Cellphone Repair with MKRI Training Programme 2026
Applications are submitted online.
Steps:
- Visit the application link
- Complete the form
- Prepare supporting details
- Submit before the closing date
Application link:
https://forms.gle/goiQuwED8sEydH7LA
Closing date: 16 February 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the MKRI Cellphone Repair Training Programme?
It is a four-week practical training course that teaches participants the skills required to repair and troubleshoot mobile phones.
Where is the programme located?
The training takes place in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**.
What are the training dates?
The programme runs from **23 February to 20 March 2026**, Monday to Friday.
Who can apply?
Young South Africans, especially beginners interested in electronics and mobile repairs, can apply.
Is prior experience required?
No, beginners are welcome to apply.
What skills will I learn?
Participants will learn diagnostics, troubleshooting, mobile phone repairs, and how to start a small business.
Is a certificate provided?
Yes, all participants receive a certificate upon completion.
How long is the programme?
The programme lasts **4 weeks**, Monday to Friday.
Is there a cost to attend?
The programme details should be checked with MKRI, but many such training programmes are often free or subsidized.
When is the closing date to apply?
Applications close on **16 February 2026**.
Can I start a business after completing the programme?
Yes, the skills taught equip participants to start their own cellphone repair business.
Are there age restrictions?
The programme is usually open to youth aged **18 – 35 years**.
Is this suitable for unemployed youth?
Yes, it provides practical skills and improves employability.
Do I need any prior qualifications?
No formal qualifications are required, but basic literacy and numeracy are recommended.
Is this programme full-time?
Yes, participants attend Monday to Friday for the four-week duration.
