merSETA invites the skilled Unemployed south African youth to Apply for the Internship Programme for the year 2026.This Opportunities Are open for the Graduates of the following Career engineering, manufacturing, logistics, ICT, HR, finance, communications, or project management environment,
merSETA Internship Programme 2026 Overview
| Programme | merSETA Internship Programme 2026 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 24 Months |
| Location | Parktown (Johannesburg) + Regional Offices Nationwide |
| Total Internships Available | 42 Posts |
| Age Requirement | 18–35 Years |
| Work Experience Requirement | No Previous Internship Participation |
| Stipend | NQF Level 6 Diploma: R10,000/month NQF Level 7 Degree: R11,000/month NQF Level 8 Honours/Postgrad: R12,000/month |
| Closing Date | 20 April 2026 |
| Application Methods | Email CV WhatsApp Submission Apply via PNet Apply via LinkedIn |
Available Fields and Opportunities
Although specific fields may vary, merSETA internships typically cover:
Business Administration
Finance Management
Accounting
Human Resource Management
Labour Law
Industrial Psychology
Project Management
Office Administration
Training / Skills Development
Marketing
Public Relations
Journalism
Commerce
Social Sciences
Quality Systems
Operations Management
Engineering
Communications Networks
Computer Science
System Development
Library and Information Science
Supply Chain Management
Logistics
Public Administration
Law
Tourism
This wide eligibility range makes the programme accessible to graduates from many TVET colleges and universities.
Stipend Structure
Unlike many internships with flat stipends, merSETA pays according to qualification level:
- National Diploma (NQF Level 6): R10 000 per month
- Bachelor’s / BTech Degree (NQF Level 7): R11 000 per month
- Honours / Postgraduate (NQF Level 8+): R12 000 per month
This tiered stipend model rewards academic progression and helps support graduates financially during the internship period.
Where You Will Be Placed
Intern placements occur in: Head Office (Parktown, Johannesburg) and Regional offices nationwide including:
- Gauteng
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Western Cape
- Eastern Cape
- Limpopo
- Mpumalanga
- Free State
- Northern Cape
This increases accessibility for applicants outside Johannesburg.
READ: Water and Sanitation General Workers X25 Posts 2026
Who Should Apply
This programme is specifically designed for unemployed graduates who need workplace exposure aligned with their qualifications.
Minimum requirements include:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be between 18 and 35 years old
- Must have no prior internship participation
- Must hold a National Diploma, Bachelor’s degree, or postgraduate qualification relevant to the internship stream
Preference may be given to:
- Affirmative Action candidates
- Persons living with disabilities
This aligns with national Employment Equity objectives.
List of Required Documents
Strong internship applications typically include:
Updated CV
Certified ID copy
Certified qualification certificates
Academic transcripts
Proof of residence (if required)
Motivation letter (recommended even if optional)
Get More Opportunities
Currents South African Vacancies
Apply for Learnerships Programme
Get Apprenticeships Programmes
How to Apply merSETA 2026 Internship Programme
You can apply using multiple channels.
Option 1: Email your CV:
recruit@rapidrecruiting.co.za
shanelle@rapidrecruiting.co.za
Option 2: Apply via WhatsApp: 033 880 0263
Option 3 Apply on PNet
Search: Rapid Recruiting
Option 4: Apply via LinkedIn listing
FAQs About merSETA Internship Programme 2026
What is merSETA?
merSETA is a Sector Education and Training Authority focused on skills development in manufacturing and engineering industries.
How many positions are available in 2026?
There are 42 internship positions available nationwide.
Who can apply for this internship?
Unemployed graduates aged 18–35 with NQF Level 6–8 qualifications can apply.
Do I need work experience?
No, previous work experience is not required.
Can I apply if I’ve done another internship before?
No, applicants must not have participated in any previous internship programme.
What is the duration of the internship?
The programme runs for 24 months.
Where will the internship take place?
At Parktown (Johannesburg) and regional offices nationwide.
What is the stipend for diploma holders?
R10,000 per month.
What is the stipend for degree holders?
R11,000 per month.
What is the stipend for postgraduate holders?
R12,000 per month.
What is the closing date?
20 April 2026.
How can I apply?
Via email, WhatsApp, PNet, or LinkedIn.
Is the internship paid?
Yes, all interns receive a monthly stipend.
Can international applicants apply?
Typically, only South African citizens are eligible.
What documents are required?
CV, ID copy, and certified qualifications.
Is accommodation provided?
No, accommodation is usually not included.
Will I get a permanent job after the internship?
Not guaranteed, but it improves employment chances.
Can I apply for multiple positions?
Yes, if applicable.
When will shortlisted candidates be contacted?
After the closing date, depending on the selection process.
Is this internship worth it?
Yes, it offers valuable experience and career growth opportunities.
How can I increase my chances of being selected?
Submit a well-prepared CV, apply early, and follow all instructions carefully.
