UNISA and ETDP-SETA are inviting unemployed South African graduates to apply for the 2026 Internship Programme. The 24-month internship offers opportunities in Human Resources and Supply Chain Management with a stipend of R127,576 per annum.
UNISA and ETDP-SETA Open Applications for 2026 Internship Programme
The University of South Africa (UNISA), in partnership with the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP-SETA), has announced an exciting internship programme aimed at empowering unemployed graduates. The programme offers successful candidates a valuable opportunity to gain workplace experience over a period of 24 months while developing professional skills in their respective fields.
This internship initiative forms part of UNISA’s commitment to graduate development and youth employment in South Africa. The programme is specifically targeted at unemployed UNISA graduates who have completed qualifications at NQF Level 6 or higher and are seeking their first formal work experience.
With several internship positions available across Human Resources and Supply Chain Management departments, the programme provides a platform for graduates to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical workplace exposure.
Who Can Apply?
UNISA and ETDP-SETA are inviting applications from unemployed South African citizens who meet the following requirements:
- Must have completed a UNISA qualification equivalent to NQF Level 6 or higher.
- Must be 35 years old or younger.
- Must have no formal work experience in the field of application.
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be a graduate in the relevant field of study required for the internship.
- Applicants previously appointed by UNISA or any other organization will not be considered.
The university has also emphasized its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Graduates living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply, and preference will be given to persons with disabilities in line with UNISA’s Employment Equity Plan.
Available Internship Opportunities
The internship programme offers opportunities in multiple departments located primarily at the Muckleneuk Campus, with some positions available in Florida.
1. Human Resources Development Internships
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Muckleneuk |
| Department | Human Resources: Human Resource Development |
| Qualification Required | NQF Level 6 or Higher in Human Resource Management |
| Number of Positions | 4 |
| Contact Person | Mr. Khanyisa Hobololo (012 433 9543) / Mulanga Munyaradzi (012 433 9542) |
Graduates with qualifications in Human Resource Management will have the opportunity to gain practical exposure in employee development, training administration, and other HR-related functions within a large institutional environment.
2. Employee Relations and Wellness Directorate Internships
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Muckleneuk |
| Department | Human Resources: Employee Relations and Wellness Directorate |
| Qualification Required | Diploma or Degree in Human Resource Management, Labour Relations, or Labour Law |
| Number of Positions | 2 |
| Contact Person | Xoliswa Magqazana (012 429 8280) |
These positions are suitable for graduates interested in employee wellness programmes, labour relations, workplace policies, and employment legislation.
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3. Supply Chain Management Internships
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Muckleneuk and Florida |
| Department | Supply Chain Management |
| Number of Positions | 3 |
| Contact Person | Kagiso Maphoto (012 429 3446) |
Accepted Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma in Operations Management
- Bachelor of Commerce in Public Procurement
- Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain and Operations Management
- Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Management
- Bachelor of Commerce in Transport and Logistics
These internship opportunities are ideal for graduates interested in procurement, logistics, financial management, operational planning, and public sector supply chain processes.
Skills and Competencies Required
Beyond academic qualifications, applicants should demonstrate a range of professional competencies that will help them succeed in the workplace.
Successful candidates should possess:
- Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office 365 and internet applications
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work effectively within a team
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to take initiative and demonstrate responsibility
- Commitment and punctuality
- Ability to perform under pressure and meet deadlines
- Excellent written and verbal English communication skills
- Confidentiality and professionalism
- Problem-solving abilities
- Time management skills
- Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
These competencies reflect the professional standards expected within a modern workplace and will help interns maximize the learning opportunities available during the programme.
Internship Benefits
The internship programme is designed to provide graduates with practical workplace experience while offering financial support during the training period.
Programme Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 24 Months |
| Assumption of Duty | 17 August 2026 |
| Annual Stipend | R127,576.00 per annum |
| Closing Date | 04 August 2026 |
The two-year internship period gives graduates sufficient time to gain meaningful experience, develop professional networks, and enhance their employability in South Africa’s competitive job market.
Required Application Documents
Applicants are required to prepare and submit the following documents:
- Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African Identity Document (not older than six months)
- Certified copy of Matric Certificate
- Certified Academic Record
- Certified copy of completed UNISA qualification
All documents must be scanned and combined into a single PDF document before submission.
Important Submission Guidelines
Applicants should note the following:
- Only PDF documents will be accepted.
- Photographs or image files will not be accepted.
- Password-protected documents will not be considered.
- The position reference and UNISA student number must be accurately captured on the application portal.
- Separate applications must be submitted for each position if applying for more than one internship opportunity.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in disqualification from the recruitment process.
Why Graduates Should Apply
South Africa’s graduate job market remains highly competitive, making structured internship programmes increasingly valuable for recent graduates. The UNISA and ETDP-SETA Internship Programme offers participants an opportunity to gain practical experience within one of Africa’s largest higher education institutions while receiving a competitive stipend.
Interns will be exposed to real workplace environments, professional mentorship, administrative systems, and operational processes that can significantly strengthen their future career prospects.
For graduates seeking to build careers in Human Resources, Labour Relations, Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Financial Management, or related fields, this programme represents an excellent stepping stone into the professional world.
With the application deadline approaching quickly, eligible UNISA graduates are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this valuable 24-month internship opportunity.
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