Apply for the UNISA Internship Programme 2026 offering 10 positions in Facilities Management. Open to unemployed graduates under 35 with no work experience. Deadline: 03 April 2026.
The University of South Africa has officially opened applications for its highly anticipated 2026 Internship Programme, presenting a valuable opportunity for young graduates to gain practical workplace experience. With a structured 12-month training period, this initiative is specifically designed to equip unemployed graduates with industry-relevant skills while enhancing their employability in a competitive job market.
A Strategic Opportunity for Career Development
The internship programme targets unemployed South African citizens who have completed a qualification through UNISA equivalent to NQF Level 6 or higher. By focusing on candidates with no prior work experience, the institution aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional exposure.
This initiative reflects UNISA’s ongoing commitment to youth development, skills transfer, and transformation within South Africa’s workforce. Graduates selected for the programme will be placed within key departments where they will gain hands-on experience and mentorship.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is tailored for a specific group of applicants, and candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be unemployed and under the age of 35
- Must have completed a UNISA qualification (NQF Level 6 or above)
- Must have no prior work experience
- Must not have previously participated in an internship at UNISA or any other organization
In addition, UNISA strongly encourages applications from persons living with disabilities, aligning with its Employment Equity Plan and commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Internship Placement Details
Successful candidates will be placed within the Facilities Management and Maintenance department, based in Pretoria (Muckleneuk campus). The available positions are structured as follows:
- Reference: FMM3/P/02
- Field: Civil/Building
- Number of Positions: 2
- Reference: REF/FMM/03
- Field: Civil Engineering
- Number of Positions: 3
Each role is designed to provide practical exposure in infrastructure maintenance, project coordination, and operational support within a large institutional environment.
Key Competencies Required
To succeed in the programme, applicants are expected to demonstrate a blend of technical and soft skills. These include:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and general computer literacy
- Strong communication skills and professional telephone etiquette
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
- Time management and the ability to multitask effectively
- Problem-solving capabilities and initiative
- Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines
- High level of integrity and confidentiality
These competencies are essential as interns will be expected to contribute meaningfully while learning under supervision.
Programme Structure and Benefits
The internship is structured as a fixed-term, non-renewable 12-month contract, commencing on 01 May 2026. During this period, interns will receive a stipend of R127,576 per annum, providing financial support while they gain valuable work experience.
Although relocation costs will not be covered, the programme offers significant long-term value through exposure to real-world projects and professional networks.
Application Process and Requirements
Interested applicants must submit their applications through the official UNISA student portal. It is important to note that access to the application system is restricted to UNISA students and graduates.
Applicants are required to prepare and upload the following documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- One-page motivational letter outlining suitability for the internship
- Certified copies (not older than 6 months) of:
- South African ID
- Matric Certificate
- Academic Record
- Completed UNISA Qualification
All documents must be submitted in PDF format only. Submissions in image format or password-protected files will not be accepted.
Additionally, candidates applying for multiple positions must submit separate applications for each role and ensure that the correct reference number and student number are included.
Important Dates and Final Notes
- Closing Date: 03 April 2026 (23:59 PM)
- Start Date: 01 May 2026
- Duration: 12 months (non-renewable)
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and they must be available for interviews as scheduled by the university. If applicants do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, they should consider their application unsuccessful.
Background checks will be conducted on all successful candidates as part of the final selection process.
Conclusion
The UNISA Internship Programme 2026 stands out as a strategic gateway for graduates seeking to transition into the professional world. With structured mentorship, real-world exposure, and a supportive learning environment, this opportunity offers more than just work experience—it provides a solid foundation for long-term career growth.
For eligible graduates, this is a chance to leverage academic achievements into meaningful professional development within one of South Africa’s leading higher education institutions.
APPLY NOW
