Apply for the UNISA and ETDP SETA Internship Programme 2026. Qualifying UNISA graduates can earn a stipend of R127,576 per annum while gaining 24 months of workplace experience. Applications close on 4 August 2026.
UNISA and ETDP SETA Internship Programme 2026: Apply for 24-Month Graduate Internship Opportunities
The University of South Africa (UNISA), in partnership with the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA), has opened applications for its 2026 Graduate Internship Programme.
The programme offers qualifying UNISA graduates the opportunity to gain 24 months of structured workplace experience while earning an annual stipend of R127,576. Successful interns will work in various departments across the university, developing practical skills that can improve their future employment prospects.
Applications close on 4 August 2026, and eligible graduates are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
About the UNISA and ETDP SETA Internship Programme
The internship programme is designed to help unemployed graduates transition from academic study into the professional workplace.
Interns will receive supervised workplace training, develop practical skills and gain valuable experience relevant to their fields of study.
The initiative forms part of UNISA’s commitment to graduate development while supporting South Africa’s skills development objectives through its partnership with ETDP SETA.
Programme Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | UNISA & ETDP SETA Graduate Internship Programme |
| Employer | University of South Africa (UNISA) |
| Partner | ETDP SETA |
| Contract Duration | 24 Months |
| Annual Stipend | R127,576 |
| Assumption of Duty | 3 August 2026 |
| Closing Date | 4 August 2026 |
| Employment Type | Graduate Internship |
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be unemployed.
- Be a UNISA graduate.
- Hold a qualification equivalent to NQF Level 6 or higher.
- Be 35 years old or younger.
- Have no formal work experience in the field of application.
- Hold a qualification relevant to the advertised internship.
The programme is intended for graduates entering the workplace for the first time.
Employment Equity
According to the official advertisement:
- Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
- Preference will be given to applicants with disabilities.
- Appointments will be made in accordance with UNISA’s Employment Equity Plan.
Applicants who qualify under these provisions are encouraged to indicate this during the application process where applicable.
Available Internship Opportunities
UNISA has advertised internships across several departments.
Human Resource Development
Location: Muckleneuk
Department: Human Resources – Human Resource Development
Available Positions: 4
Minimum Qualification
- NQF Level 6 or higher in Human Resource Management
Employee Relations and Wellness
Location: Muckleneuk
Department: Human Resources – Employee Relations and Wellness Directorate
Available Positions: 2
Minimum Qualifications
Applicants should hold a Diploma or Degree in:
- Human Resource Management
- Labour Relations
- Labour Law
Supply Chain Management
Locations: Muckleneuk and Florida
Fresh listings:
Available Positions: 3
Accepted Qualifications
Applicants should possess one of the following:
- 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
Skills and Competencies Required
Successful applicants should demonstrate:
- Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office 365
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to work effectively in a team
- Initiative
- Attention to detail
- Good organisational skills
- Time management
- Ability to prioritise work
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Commitment and accountability
- Professional conduct
- Confidentiality
- Problem-solving ability
- Ability to work under pressure
- Ability to manage multiple tasks
These competencies are essential for success in a professional working environment.
Stipend and Contract Duration
Successful interns will receive:
- Annual stipend: R127,576
- Contract duration: 24 months
- Expected start date: 3 August 2026
The internship focuses on workplace learning and professional development.
The official advertisement does not mention additional employment benefits such as medical aid, pension contributions or housing allowances.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload the following:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID (not older than six months)
- Certified Matric certificate
- Certified academic record
- Certified UNISA qualification certificate
Important Upload Requirements
UNISA requires applicants to:
- Combine all documents into one PDF file.
- Ensure documents are clear and readable.
- Do not upload photographs of documents.
- Do not upload password-protected PDF files.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in an incomplete application.
How to Apply
Applications must be completed through the official UNISA SETA Internship Programme online application system.
Before submitting your application:
- Select the internship that matches your qualification.
- Enter the correct position reference number.
- Include your UNISA student number.
- Upload all required documents as one PDF file.
- Submit a separate application if applying for more than one internship.
The application portal is available only to UNISA students and graduates.
Tips for a Successful Application
To improve your chances of being shortlisted:
- Update your CV to highlight relevant academic projects and practical skills.
- Double-check that your qualification matches the advertised requirements.
- Ensure all certified documents are current.
- Combine documents into a single PDF before uploading.
- Verify your student number and reference number carefully.
- Submit your application well before the closing date.
A complete and accurate application demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail.
Programme Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Employer | University of South Africa (UNISA) |
| Partner | ETDP SETA |
| Programme | Graduate Internship |
| Contract | 24 Months |
| Annual Stipend | R127,576 |
| Qualification | NQF Level 6 or Higher |
| Age Limit | 35 Years or Younger |
| Work Experience | No Formal Experience Required |
| Closing Date | 4 August 2026 |
Final Thoughts
The UNISA and ETDP SETA Internship Programme 2026 offers qualifying graduates an excellent opportunity to gain meaningful workplace experience while earning an annual stipend of R127,576.
With internships available in Human Resource Development, Employee Relations and Wellness, and Supply Chain Management, successful candidates will spend 24 months developing practical skills in a professional university environment.
If you recently completed your qualification through UNISA, meet the eligibility requirements and have little or no formal work experience, prepare your documents carefully and submit your application before 4 August 2026. Early applications are recommended to avoid last-minute technical issues.