Sanlam is inviting graduates to apply for its Data, AI and Engineering Academy in Bellville, Western Cape. The 13-month programme offers permanent employment, technical training, mentorship and hands-on experience in data, AI and software engineering.
Sanlam Data, AI and Engineering Academy Graduate Programme 2026
Graduates looking to establish a career in data, artificial intelligence, software engineering and modern technology have an opportunity to join the Sanlam Data, AI and Engineering Academy in Bellville, Western Cape.
Sanlam has opened applications for its 13-month accelerated development programme, designed for soon-to-be graduates and recent graduates who want to build careers in technology and data within a major financial services organisation.
The opportunity is particularly suited to candidates who enjoy solving complex problems, working with data, developing technology solutions and exploring the practical applications of artificial intelligence.
Applications are open until 27 September 2026.
About the Sanlam Data, AI and Engineering Academy
The Sanlam Data, AI and Engineering Academy forms part of Sanlam Group Technology and focuses on developing technical and analytical capabilities needed in an increasingly digital and data-driven business environment.
Participants will work alongside experienced technology practitioners and gain exposure to areas including cloud technology, data engineering, artificial intelligence, software development, analytics and modern engineering.
Rather than simply providing classroom-based training, the programme combines structured development with practical enterprise-level experience. Graduates will have opportunities to work on real business problems and contribute to technology capabilities that support Sanlam’s digital transformation.
One of the notable features of the opportunity is that successful candidates receive permanent employment from the onset, while participating in the 13-month accelerated development programme.
Two Career Pathways Available
The academy offers graduates the opportunity to develop in one of two broad career streams: Data and AI or Software Engineering and AI.
Data and AI
The Data and AI pathway is aimed at graduates who are interested in understanding data, identifying patterns and turning information into meaningful business insights.
Participants will develop foundations in data management, data engineering and the development of AI-ready data products. They will also gain exposure to technologies and approaches involving artificial intelligence, machine learning, predictive analytics and agentic AI.
The pathway can prepare graduates for future careers such as:
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Data Engineer
- AI/ML Engineer
Candidates interested in using data to support decision-making and create commercial value may find this pathway particularly suitable.
Software Engineering and AI
The Software Engineering and AI pathway is designed for graduates who enjoy building technology solutions and solving complex technical problems.
Participants can develop their knowledge of modern engineering practices, cloud-native architecture, distributed systems, application integration and AI-assisted or agentic engineering.
Potential career directions include:
- Software Engineer
- DevOps Engineer
- Integration Specialist
- Solutions or Technology Architect
The pathway provides an opportunity for graduates to develop both traditional engineering capabilities and knowledge of emerging technologies.
What the 13-Month Programme Offers
Sanlam’s academy is structured around practical development, technical learning and professional growth.
During the programme, graduates will receive ongoing technical training and competency-based development, while gaining real-world experience in an enterprise environment.
They will also receive coaching and mentorship from subject-matter experts within Sanlam’s technology and analytics teams.
Another important component is cross-functional exposure. Participants may rotate between different IT and business teams, allowing them to understand different technology disciplines and identify areas that best match their interests and capabilities.
The programme also provides opportunities to participate in innovation activities, technology learning days, competitions and hackathons.
Graduates will gain exposure to leading IT and business intelligence tools while developing the business acumen required to operate effectively in a professional environment.
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Who Can Apply?
The opportunity is intended for soon-to-be graduates and recent graduates.
Sanlam will consider candidates who already hold a relevant degree or who will complete their degree by the end of 2026.
Previous professional experience is not required. However, applicants should not have more than 12 months of related professional work experience after university.
Work experience gained through a work-integrated learning programme will not be treated as professional working experience for this requirement.
Relevant qualifications include:
- BCom
- BSc
- BTech
- BEng
Fields of study may include:
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Data Analytics
- Business Intelligence
- Statistics
- Mathematics
- Finance
- Actuarial Science
- Industrial Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Skills and Attributes
Sanlam does not expect applicants to already possess extensive expertise in every technology covered by the academy. The programme’s curriculum is designed to develop the necessary technical capabilities.
However, a basic understanding of technologies and concepts such as Python, Java, .NET, SQL, data analysis, data modelling, data visualisation, business analysis and process analysis can be beneficial.
Successful candidates are expected to demonstrate an innovative mindset, strong problem-solving ability and a genuine interest in technology, data and AI.
They should also be able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines, collaborate with different stakeholders, remain client-focused and respond positively to feedback.
Benefits of Joining Sanlam
The academy offers more than an internship-style placement. Successful graduates are offered permanent employment from the beginning, together with market-related benefits and rewards.
The programme can therefore provide a structured entry point into a long-term technology career.
Participants will have the opportunity to work with experienced professionals, build industry networks and gain exposure to different areas of Sanlam’s technology and business operations.
Sanlam’s broad footprint also creates potential opportunities for career development across different business clusters and geographical markets.
Why This Opportunity Matters
The financial services industry is undergoing significant technological transformation, with cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data engineering and software development becoming increasingly important.
For graduates, gaining experience in these areas within a large enterprise can provide valuable exposure to the technologies and processes shaping the future of financial services.
The Sanlam Data, AI and Engineering Academy therefore offers candidates an opportunity to move beyond theoretical knowledge and develop practical capabilities while working on meaningful business and technology challenges.
How to Apply
Interested graduates should review the official vacancy carefully and submit their applications through Sanlam’s careers platform.
The closing date is 27 September 2026. Sanlam has indicated that shortlisting will begin only after the application deadline has been reached, and the duration of the selection process may depend on the candidate’s progress and the availability of hiring managers.
Candidates who meet the qualification and experience requirements are encouraged to apply before the deadline.
Location: Bellville, Western Cape
Programme: Sanlam Data, AI and Engineering Academy
Duration: 13 months
Employment: Permanent employment from onset
Fields: Data, AI, Software Engineering and related disciplines
Closing Date: 27 September 2026
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