UNISA and ETDP-SETA Internships 2026: Graduate Opportunities Available
UNISA and ETDP-SETA are inviting unemployed UNISA graduates to apply for their 24-month Internship Programme in 2026. This opportunity is for graduates looking to gain valuable workplace experience in Human Resource Development, Employee Relations and Wellness, and Supply Chain Management.
Application Closing Date: 04 August 2026
Location: UNISA Muckleneuk Campus and Florida Campus, Gauteng, South Africa
Programme Duration: 24 months
Stipend: R127 576 per annum
Minimum Qualification: UNISA qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher
Opportunity Type: Internship
About the UNISA and ETDP-SETA Internship Programme
The University of South Africa (UNISA), in partnership with the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP-SETA), is offering nine internship positions. This programme is designed to provide practical, on-the-job training for recent graduates.
The internship aims to equip graduates with essential skills and knowledge in specific fields, preparing them for future career opportunities. It focuses on structured learning within a professional environment.
This programme is specifically for unemployed graduates who have completed their qualifications at UNISA. It offers a chance to gain relevant experience without prior formal work history in the chosen field.
About UNISA and ETDP-SETA
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is one of the largest open distance learning universities in the world. It offers a wide range of qualifications across various disciplines. UNISA is committed to providing accessible and quality higher education.
The ETDP-SETA is a statutory body established to address skills development needs within the Education, Training and Development Practices sector in South Africa. It plays a crucial role in funding and overseeing learnerships, internships, and other skills development initiatives.
Available Internship Opportunities
This internship programme offers positions across three key departments. Each department requires specific qualifications and offers a unique learning experience.
- Human Resource Development
- Employee Relations and Wellness Directorate
- Supply Chain Management
What the Internship Offers
Successful interns will gain significant benefits during their 24-month placement. This programme is designed to provide a solid foundation for a career in the public sector.
- Valuable workplace experience in your field of study.
- Structured training and development opportunities.
- A monthly stipend to support you during the programme.
- Exposure to professional work environments and industry practices.
- The chance to develop practical skills and enhance your professional profile.
Programme Duration and Location
The internship programme is set to run for a period of 24 months. Successful candidates are expected to begin their duties on 17 August 2026.
The internships will be based at UNISA’s campuses in Gauteng. Specifically, opportunities are available at the UNISA Muckleneuk Campus and the Florida Campus. Applicants must be available for the full duration of the programme.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for these internship positions, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be unemployed South African citizens.
- Be 35 years old or younger.
- Have completed a qualification through UNISA.
- Hold a qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher.
- Possess a qualification relevant to the specific internship position.
- Have no formal work experience in the field for which they are applying.
- Not have been previously employed by UNISA or any other organisation.
- Be available for the entire 24-month programme.
Competencies Required
Successful candidates will need to demonstrate a range of skills and personal attributes to excel in this internship. These competencies are essential for effective performance and professional growth.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and internet usage.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a team.
- A proactive approach with the ability to take initiative.
- Willingness to work under supervision and manage responsibilities.
- Attention to detail and a commitment to punctuality.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
- Proficiency in English and the ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Problem-solving skills and effective time-management.
Who Should Apply?
This internship programme is ideal for unemployed UNISA graduates who are eager to gain practical experience in Human Resource Development, Employee Relations and Wellness, or Supply Chain Management. It is suited for individuals who have completed their studies and are looking to kick-start their careers.
The opportunity is best for those who are willing to learn, take on new challenges, and work collaboratively within a professional setting. Preference will be given to persons with disabilities.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents with their application:
- A comprehensive and updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A certified copy of your South African identity document (not older than six months).
- A certified copy of your Matric certificate (not older than six months).
- A certified copy of your academic record (not older than six months).
- A certified copy of your completed UNISA qualification (not older than six months).
All certified copies must be recent, within the last six months.
Important Document Format Instructions
All supporting documents must be scanned and combined into one single PDF document. Ensure that the PDF is not password-protected and does not contain photographs or separate image files. Before submitting, open the combined PDF to verify that all pages are visible and readable.
Position Reference and UNISA Student Number
It is crucial to enter the correct position reference number and your UNISA student number accurately on the application portal. If you are applying for more than one position, you must submit a separate online application for each opportunity. Applicants should carefully check the online application form to select the correct position before submitting.
How to Apply for UNISA and ETDP-SETA Internships 2026
Applications must be submitted online via the designated Microsoft application form.
Click here to apply for UNISA and ETDP-SETA Internships 2026
Applicants should follow these steps:
- Open the online application form.
- Sign in using your UNISA-linked details.
- Select the correct internship position.
- Enter the correct position reference and your UNISA student number.
- Complete all compulsory application questions.
- Combine your required documents into one PDF.
- Upload the single PDF document.
- Review all information carefully before submission.
- Submit your application by 23:59 on 04 August 2026.
Internship Application Closing Date
The deadline for applications is 04 August 2026 at 23:59. Late applications may not be considered. It is advisable to submit your application well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute technical issues.
Employment Equity
UNISA is committed to diversity and inclusion. For this internship programme, preference will be given to persons with disabilities, in line with UNISA’s Employment Equity Plan.
Relocation Costs
Successful applicants will be responsible for their own relocation expenses. UNISA will not cover any costs associated with relocation.
Background Checks
All successful candidates will undergo background checks. These may include verification of identity, citizenship, academic qualifications, UNISA student records, previous employment, criminal records, and the information provided in the application. Applicants must ensure all information supplied is truthful and accurate.
Application Outcome
Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews. If you have not been contacted within 30 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Important Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, please confirm the following:
- You are an unemployed South African citizen aged 35 or younger.
- You completed your qualification through UNISA at NQF Level 6 or higher.
- Your qualification matches the selected position, and you have no formal experience in that field.
- You were not previously employed by UNISA or another organisation.
- Your UNISA student number and position reference are correct.
- All certified documents are less than six months old and combined into one readable PDF.
- You submitted a separate application for each position you are interested in.
- Your application is submitted by the closing date of 04 August 2026 at 23:59.
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