Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Internships 2026/2027: Gain Experience in Various Fields
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is offering unemployed South African graduates the chance to gain valuable workplace experience through its Graduate Internship Programme for 2026/2027. This opportunity is based in Pretoria and provides a monthly stipend of R9,000. Applications are open to those who have completed relevant qualifications and are seeking to kick-start their careers.
Application Closing Date: 06 November 2026 at 16:00
Location: Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Programme Duration: 24 months
Stipend: R9,000 per month
Minimum Qualification: Diploma or Degree (depending on the internship)
Opportunity Type: Internship
About the SMU Graduate Internship Programme
The SMU Graduate Internship Programme is designed to equip unemployed South African graduates with practical skills and exposure in various professional fields. This 24-month programme aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and the demands of the professional world. It offers a structured environment where interns can develop their competencies and gain hands-on experience.
The programme focuses on areas such as research administration, information technology, business development, finance, postgraduate administration, and laboratory operations. By participating, graduates will gain insights into the daily functions of a higher education institution and contribute to its operational success. This initiative is part of SMU’s commitment to youth employment and skills development within South Africa.
About Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is a public university located in Pretoria, South Africa. It is dedicated to health sciences education, research, and community engagement. SMU plays a vital role in training healthcare professionals and contributing to health research that addresses the needs of the South African population. The university is committed to academic excellence and social responsiveness.
Available Internship Opportunities
SMU is offering several internship positions across different departments. These roles provide specific learning experiences tailored to the field of study.
- Research Information Management System Intern
- Business Development Officer Intern
- Finance Intern (X2)
- Postgraduate Administration Intern
- Laboratory Technician Intern
Research Information Management System Intern
This internship focuses on the administration and reporting of research outputs. The successful candidate will assist with managing research systems and supporting users.
Business Development Officer Intern
This role involves supporting entrepreneurship programmes, business incubation, and enterprise development initiatives within the university. It is ideal for those interested in business management and innovation.
Finance Intern (X2)
Two positions are available in the finance department. Interns will assist with financial administration, expenditure monitoring, and financial reporting, gaining practical experience in financial management.
Postgraduate Administration Intern
This position supports the administration of postgraduate studies, including committee secretarial duties and managing external examiner processes. It offers experience in academic administration.
Laboratory Technician Intern
This internship is suited for individuals with a background in Chemistry. The intern will assist with chemistry research, undergraduate practical sessions, and laboratory operations, including safety and stock control.
What the Internship Offers
Successful interns will benefit from a comprehensive learning experience designed to enhance their professional capabilities.
- Practical workplace experience in a university setting.
- Structured training and exposure to professional environments.
- A monthly stipend of R9,000.
- Opportunity to develop specific skills relevant to their field.
- Exposure to research administration, IT, finance, and more.
- Contribution to the university’s operational and research activities.
Programme Duration and Location
The SMU Graduate Internship Programme runs for a duration of 24 months. All internship positions are based at the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University campus in Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following general requirements to be considered for an internship:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be currently unemployed.
- Have successfully completed the qualification required for the specific internship they are applying for.
- Submit a complete application before the closing date.
Specific qualifications required for each internship are detailed in the “Available Internship Opportunities” section.
Competencies Required
While specific competencies may vary by role, successful interns are generally expected to possess:
- Good communication skills.
- Computer literacy.
- Willingness to learn and adapt.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- A professional attitude.
- Attention to detail.
Who Should Apply?
This internship programme is ideal for unemployed South African graduates who have recently completed their diplomas or degrees and are eager to gain practical experience in their respective fields. It is particularly suited for individuals looking to build a career in research administration, IT, business development, finance, academic administration, or laboratory sciences within a higher education environment.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and attach the following documents in PDF format to their application:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A one-page motivational letter explaining your suitability for the chosen internship.
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate.
- Certified academic record.
- Certified qualification certificate.
Ensure all submitted documents are clear and legible. Image files and password-protected documents will not be accepted.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via email to tshepo.sebesho@smu.ac.za.
Applicants must use the correct subject line for the internship they are applying for. Failure to do so may result in the application not being considered.
- Research Information Management System: MQA2026-RIMS | Name Surname
- Business Development Officer: MQA2026-CFERI | Name Surname
- Finance: MQA2026-FIN | Name Surname
- Postgraduate Administration: MQA2026-PGA | Name Surname
- Laboratory Technician: MQA2026-LAB | Name Surname
Remember to replace Name Surname with your full name. If you are applying for more than one position, submit a separate email application for each internship.
Important Application Information
Please take note of the following important details regarding the application process:
- Applications close strictly at 16:00 on 06 November 2026.
- Late applications will not be considered.
- Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.
- Shortlisted applicants must be available for interviews on dates communicated by SMU.
- If you do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Closing Date
The closing date for all applications is 06 November 2026 at 16:00. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.
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