The University of South Africa (UNISA), one of Africa’s leading open distance learning institutions, invites applications from unemployed South African graduates for its 12-month Internship Programme commencing on 01 March 2026. This programme is aimed at providing workplace exposure and practical experience to graduates who have completed a UNISA qualification at NQF Level 6 or above and have no prior work experience.

UNISA is committed to transformation, diversity, and inclusivity. In line with its Employment Equity Plan, persons living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Internship Opportunities Available

Internship positions are available across various UNISA Colleges, Departments, and Directorates, including but not limited to:

• Counselling and Career Development
• Accounting Sciences
• Business Administration & Administrative Management
• Psychology & Industrial and Organisational Psychology
• Information Sciences, Archives & Records Management
• Privacy Governance, Risk & Compliance
• Electrical and Smart Systems Engineering
• Social and Health Sciences
• Art History, Visual Arts, Communication & Related Fields

Internships are offered at multiple campuses and regional offices including Sunnyside, Muckleneuk, Florida, Ekurhuleni, Vaal, Parow, Lenasia, and Robert Sobukwe campuses.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be a South African citizen
• Be 35 years old or younger
• Be unemployed
• Have completed a UNISA qualification in a relevant field
• Have no previous internship or work experience
• Not have been previously appointed at UNISA or any other organisation
• Apply for one position per application (multiple applications must be submitted separately)

Required Competencies

Successful candidates should demonstrate:

• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office 365 and internet usage)
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in a team under supervision
• Strong attention to detail and time management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines
• Professionalism, confidentiality, and problem-solving ability
• Proficiency in written and spoken English

Internship Details

• Duration: 12 months (Internship Agreement – not permanent employment)
• Stipend: R127,576.00 per annum
• Assumption of Duty: 01 March 2026
• Closing Date: 06 February 2026

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the UNISA Internship Application Portal (accessible to UNISA students and graduates only). Applicants must upload the following PDF documents only:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• One-page motivational letter
• Certified copies (not older than 6 months) of:
  • South African ID
  • Matric certificate
  • Academic record
  • UNISA completed qualification

Late, incomplete, or incorrectly submitted applications will not be considered.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. Relocation costs will be at the applicant’s own expense, and background checks will be conducted for successful candidates.

Take the next step in your career journey — apply today and gain valuable workplace experience with UNISA.