The University of South Africa Internship Programme 2026: 12-Month Opportunity for Unemployed South African Graduates
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is offering a 12-month Internship Programme starting 01 March 2026. This paid initiative targets unemployed South African citizens who have completed a UNISA qualification at NQF level 6 or higher (i.e., diploma or degree level). It provides practical workplace experience across various departments and regions, with a focus on diversity, inclusion, and employment equity—preference is given to persons living with disabilities.
The University of South Africa runs the programme for 12 months with a monthly stipend of R127 576.00 per annum (approximately R10,631 per month). Relocation is at your own expense if required. Appointments align with UNISA’s Employment Equity Plan.
Eligibility Requirements
- Unemployed South African citizen.
- Completed a UNISA qualification (NQF 6 or above).
- Not older than 35 years.
- No prior work experience required.
- Must be a UNISA graduate in the relevant field.
- Applicants previously appointed at UNISA or elsewhere are ineligible.
- Students with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Available Positions and Locations (2026)
Internship advertisements worldwide provide all the necessary details. The advert from the University of South Africa lists specific roles with reference numbers, departments, regions, minimum qualifications, and number of positions:
- REF/ECR/DSAR/NM — Deputy Registrar: Student Administration and Registration (Eastern Cape Region: 1 East London, 1 Gqeberha, 1 Mthatha) Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Accounting Sciences Positions: 3 Contact: Nthabiseng Mpako, 012 429 2588
- REF/ECR/DSAR-1/NM — Deputy Registrar: Student Administration and System Integration (Eastern Cape Region: 2 East London, 2 Gqeberha, 2 Mthatha) Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Administrative Management, Office Management, or Public Administration Positions: 6 Contact: Nthabiseng Mpako, 012 429 2588
- REF/CAES/LHC/DM — Laboratory and Horticulture Centre (with greenhouse and herbarium) – CAES (Florida Campus) Qualification: Undergraduate in Agriculture and Horticulture Positions: 10 Contact: Delphia Molisalife, 012 429 4983
- REF/DEANS/SDD/BM — Student Development Division, Office of Dean of Students (Florida Campus) Qualification: Degree in Psychology or Social Work Positions: 1 Contact: Branigan Madiehe, 012 429 2715
- REF/ECR/SASI/BM — Student Administration and System Integration (Counselling and Career Development) (Eastern Cape: East London) Qualification: Any Degree/Diploma (recommended for graduates with disability) Positions: 1 Contact: Branigan Madiehe, 012 429 2715
- REF/ECR/SASI-1/BM — Student Administration and System Integration (Counselling and Career Development) (Eastern Cape: 2 East London, 2 Gqeberha, 2 Mthatha) Qualification: Honours in Psychology/Industrial Psychology Positions: 6 Contact: Branigan Madiehe, 012 429 2715
Competencies required (across all roles): Computer literacy (Microsoft Office 365 & internet), good interpersonal/communication skills, telephone etiquette, initiative, teamwork, prioritisation, attention to detail, commitment, punctuality, ability to work under pressure/deadlines, English proficiency (verbal/written), confidentiality, problem-solving, time management, and multitasking.
How to Apply for the Programme of the University of South Africa
- Applications are online-only via the dedicated portal (accessible only to UNISA students/graduates).
- Link: Application form for Internship Program 2026 – Fill out the form (available on the UNISA HR vacancies page or directly linked in the advert).
- Include your position reference and UNISA student number accurately.
- Submit separate applications for multiple positions.
- Required documents (PDF format only; no pictures or password-protected files):
-
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- One-page motivational letter (explain why you should be considered)
- Certified copies (not older than 6 months) of: South African ID, Matric Certificate, Academic Record, and UNISA Completed Qualification
Closing Date: 06 February 2026 at 23:59 PM. No late applications accepted.
Selection & Important Notes
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
- Background checks will be conducted on successful applicants.
- If there is no response within 30 days after closing, consider your application unsuccessful.
- Correspondence is limited to shortlisted candidates only.
- The university reserves the right not to make appointments.
Contacts & Enquiries
Enquiries should be directed to the HR contact person listed for each reference number:
- Nthabiseng Mpako: 012 429 2588 (for REF/ECR/DSAR/NM and REF/ECR/DSAR-1/NM)
- Delphia Molisalife: 012 429 4983 (for REF/CAES/LHC/DM)
- Branigan Madiehe: 012 429 2715 (for REF/DEANS/SDD/BM, REF/ECR/SASI/BM, REF/ECR/SASI-1/BM)
Official Sources:
Visit the University of South Africa’s vacancies page for updates:
This is a valuable opportunity for University of South Africa alumni to gain workplace experience—apply before 06 February 2026!
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