The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) invites South African graduates to apply for its 12-month Graduate Internship Programme within the Directors, Members and Practitioners (DMP) Unit in Pretoria. Stipend: R12,000/month. Applications close 1 April 2026.
Introduction
The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), a member of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), has officially opened applications for its 2026 Graduate Internship Programme within the Directors, Members and Practitioners (DMP) Unit. This programme is aimed at providing unemployed South African graduates with practical workplace experience to complement their academic studies while building professional skills relevant to public service and corporate operations.
The internship programme, which will run for 12 months, is based at CIPC’s Sunnyside Office in Pretoria and offers a monthly stipend of R12,000.
About the Internship Programme
The Graduate Internship Programme, as contemplated by Cabinet in December 2002, is a public service initiative targeting unemployed graduates. Its primary objective is to give participants hands-on work experience, allowing them to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their academic studies in a real-world work environment.
By participating in the programme, graduates gain practical exposure to corporate governance, law, compliance, and business operations while contributing meaningfully to the DMP Unit’s functions within CIPC. This initiative supports youth skills development and fosters employability for graduates entering the South African labour market.
Who Can Apply
The programme targets unemployed South African graduates who meet the following criteria:
- Completed a B Degree or equivalent in Business Management, Commerce, Accounting, or Law.
- Must have studied Corporate Law, Entrepreneurial Law, Commercial Law, or an equivalent subject at a minimum of second-year level.
- Knowledge of the Business Rescue regime is considered an advantage.
- Exposure to Research as a subject is also advantageous.
- Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Must not have had prior work experience in a professional environment.
Successful candidates will be required to sign a Graduate Internship Programme Agreement with CIPC upon selection.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents when applying:
- Updated CV
- South African ID document
- Relevant academic qualifications uploaded under the “supporting documents” section
It is critical that all documents are uploaded to the correct sections of the online application portal. Failure to do so will result in automatic disqualification. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) prior to submission.
Applications must be submitted via the official CIPC portal: https://cipc.mcidirecthire.com/default/External/CurrentOpportunities or via the CIPC website at www.cipc.co.za. Faxed, emailed, posted, or hand-delivered applications will not be accepted.
For assistance with the application process, candidates can contact the CIPC Recruitment Office at 087 743 7074 / 7075 or 087 260 1554.
Internship Details
- Reference Number: InternDMP26
- Location: Sunnyside Office, Pretoria, Gauteng
- Duration: 12 months
- Remuneration: R12,000 per month stipend
- Employment Type: Contract, short-term
- Work Level: Student/Graduate
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for selection interviews, with dates, times, and venues determined by CIPC. Applicants should ensure they are available for interviews as scheduled.
CIPC conducts qualification and SA citizenship verification for all successful candidates. As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, preference will be given to candidates whose appointment aligns with the approved employment equity plan.
Feedback on applications will be provided only to shortlisted candidates, and CIPC reserves the right not to fill any advertised positions if suitable candidates are not identified.
Benefits of the Internship
The Graduate Internship Programme provides participants with:
- Practical workplace experience within a professional public service environment
- Exposure to corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and administrative processes
- Hands-on experience in corporate law, commercial practices, and business management
- Opportunities to develop research and analytical skills applicable to public sector operations
- A stepping stone to enhance employability and build a foundation for a professional career in law, business, or commerce
Closing Date
All applications for the 2026/27 Graduate Internship Programme in the DMP Unit must be submitted by 01 April 2026. Candidates are encouraged to submit early and ensure that all supporting documentation is complete and accurate.
Conclusion
CIPC’s Graduate Internship Programme for the Directors, Members and Practitioners Unit is an excellent opportunity for unemployed South African graduates to gain valuable work experience, develop professional skills, and build a pathway toward a successful career in corporate governance, law, or business management. With structured mentorship, exposure to real workplace processes, and practical responsibilities, the programme equips graduates to make meaningful contributions to South Africa’s public service while enhancing their employability in the competitive labour market.
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