Unlocking Opportunities: SSETA Graduate Internship Programme for 2025-2027
South Africa’s commitment to youth development and skills growth continues through transformative initiatives such as the SSETA Graduate Internship Programme. Designed to offer practical workplace exposure, this 24-month contract opportunity is an ideal stepping stone for recent graduates seeking to launch their careers in public management, project management, administration, or financial management.
What Makes SSETA’s Internship Programme a Career Game-Changer?
The Sector Education and Training Authority (SSETA) under the Chief Directorate of Skills Development Implementation has opened applications for its Graduate Internship Programme running from 2025 through 2027. The initiative supports graduates by providing hands-on experience and professional mentorship, helping bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world skills.
This programme is more than just a contract. It is a carefully structured career development platform where successful interns receive a monthly stipend while developing essential competencies in various public sector roles.
Who Can Apply? A Closer Look at Eligibility and Requirements
SSETA’s Graduate Internship positions are open to South African citizens holding a National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in any of the following fields:
- Public Management
- Public Administration
- Project Management
- Financial Management
Candidates must be unemployed within the public service and have no prior experience as an intern or contract worker in the public sector. This ensures that the internship serves its intended purpose: to provide meaningful entry-level opportunities for new graduates.
Applicants with foreign qualifications are reminded that these must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) for consideration.
Internship Locations: Spreading Skills Across South Africa
SSETA is committed to inclusive development, offering internship placements across several regional offices:
- Pretoria Head Office
- Vhembe and Capricorn Regional Offices
- Cape Town Regional Office
- Durban and Pietermaritzburg Regional Offices
- East London and Gqeberha Regional Offices
This geographic diversity allows for broad access to career-building opportunities and supports regional development.
What Does the Internship Involve?
Interns will be immersed in day-to-day operations within the Chief Directorate: Skills Development Implementation. Responsibilities may include assisting with project coordination, administrative support, financial monitoring, and public service delivery enhancement.
This hands-on experience aims to cultivate practical skills in a structured public sector environment, under the guidance of experienced professionals.
The Internship Stipend: Supporting Graduates While They Learn
Each internship role comes with a monthly stipend of R7,860.40. While this amount is modest, it reflects the programme’s emphasis on skills acquisition and career progression rather than immediate financial gain.
The stipend helps interns manage their daily expenses while dedicating themselves fully to gaining professional experience.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide to Your SSETA Internship Application
The application process is streamlined and fully online to ensure accessibility:
- Visit the official Departmental Website application portal at http://z83.ngnscan.co.za/apply.
- Complete the New Z83 application form digitally, including an electronic signature.
- Upload a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae and supporting documents (certified copies will be required upon interview).
SSETA SDI GP/NW/FS REF NO: NSF27/08/2025
Chief Directorate: Skills Development Implementation
Period: Fixed 24 Months Contract
Graduate Intern
STIPEND : R7 860.40 per month
CENTRE Pretoria Head Office
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma/Bachelor degree in Public Management/ Administration/
Project Management/ Financial Management
ENQUIRIES : Mr MS Ramogayana Tel No: (012) 943 2923/ 083 418 2618
Ms TJ Moloto at 081 035 7725
POST 28/33 : SDI LP/MP REF NO: NSF29/08/2025
Chief Directorate: Skills Development Implementation
Period: Fixed 24 Months Contract
Graduate Intern
STIPEND : R7 860.40 per month
CENTRE : Pretoria Head Office
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma / Bachelor degree in Public Management / Administration /
Project Management / Financial Management
ENQUIRIES : Mr MS Ramogayana Tel No: (012) 943 2923/ 083 418 2618
Ms TJ Moloto at 081 035 7725
POST 28/34 : SDI LP/MP REF NO: NSF31/08/2025
Chief Directorate: Skills Development Implementation
Period: Fixed 24 Months Contract
Graduate Intern
STIPEND : R7 860.40 per month
CENTRE : Vhembe and Capricorn Reginal Offices
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma/Bachelor degree in Public Management/ Administration/
Project Management/ Financial Management
ENQUIRIES : Mr MS Ramogayana Tel No: (012) 943 2923/ 083 418 2618
Ms TJ Moloto at 081 035 7725
POST 28/35 : SDI WC/NC REF NO: NSF32/08/2025
Chief Directorate: Skills Development Implementation
Period: Fixed 24 Months Contract
Graduate Intern
STIPEND : R7 860.40 per month
CENTRE : Cape Town Reginal Office
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma/Bachelor degree in Public
Management/Administration/Project Management/Financial Management
ENQUIRIES : Mr MS Ramogayana Tel No: (012) 943 2923/ 083 418 2618
Ms TJ Moloto at 081 035 7725
POST 28/36 : SDI KZN REF NO: NSF34/08/2025
Chief Directorate: Skills Development Implementation
Period: Fixed 24 Months Contract
Graduate Intern
STIPEND : R7 860.40 per month
CENTRE : Durban and Pietermaritzburg Reginal Office
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma/ Bachelor degree in Public Management/ Administration/
Project Management/ Financial Management
ENQUIRIES : Mr MS Ramogayana Tel No: (012) 943 2923/ 083 418 2618
Ms TJ Moloto at 081 035 7725
POST 28/37 : SDI EC REF NO: NSF36/08/2025
Chief Directorate: Skills Development Implementation
Period: Fixed 24 Months Contract
Graduate Intern
STIPEND : R7 860.40 per month
CENTRE : East London and Gqeberha Reginal Office
REQUIREMENTS : National Diploma/ Bachelor degree in Public Management/ Administration /
Project Management/ Financial Management
ENQUIRIES : Mr MS Ramogayana Tel No: (012) 943 2923/ 083 418 2618
Ms TJ Moloto at 081 035 7725
Important Notes:
- Only applications submitted online through the official portal will be considered.
- Applicants should clearly specify the field of study for which they are applying.
- Multiple applications for different fields require separate submissions.
- Ensure all documentation is complete before the deadline. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews and must submit certified documents by then.
Closing Date and Selection Process
All applications must be submitted by 29 August 2025. Given the expected high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants are advised to prepare all necessary documentation in advance and to apply early.
The selection process includes verification of qualifications, citizenship status, and security vetting, underscoring SSETA’s commitment to transparency and compliance.
Commitment to Diversity and Equal Opportunity
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) actively promotes equal employment opportunities within this internship programme. Affirmative action policies ensure representativity concerning race, gender, and disability.
Importantly, people living with disabilities are encouraged to apply, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and social equity.
Why Intern with SSETA? Real Stories, Real Growth
Consider the journey of past interns who have turned this opportunity into launching pads for rewarding careers in the public sector. Many graduates have found that the SSETA internship not only enhanced their technical skills but also fostered essential soft skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
By working on live projects and collaborating with various government departments, interns gain a panoramic view of how public management initiatives are implemented to benefit communities.
Preparing for Your Internship Journey: Tips for Success
To maximize the experience, successful candidates should:
- Approach each task with a learning mindset, welcoming challenges as opportunities.
- Maintain professionalism and punctuality.
- Seek mentorship actively from supervisors and colleagues.
- Document learnings and achievements to build a strong portfolio.
These habits can greatly increase the value of the internship and open doors to permanent employment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply if I have previously participated in an internship?
A: No, applicants must not have participated in any previous internship programmes within the public service.
Q: What if I have qualifications from outside South Africa?
A: Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA before the application is considered.
Q: Are part-time students eligible?
A: The programme targets graduates who have completed their studies.
Q: How long is the internship?
A: The contract is fixed for 24 months.
Q: Is there an opportunity for permanent employment after the internship?
A: While the internship provides valuable experience, permanent employment depends on available positions and performance.
Conclusion: A Gateway to Building South Africa’s Public Service Capacity
The SSETA Graduate Internship Programme represents a vital step in addressing South Africa’s skills development challenges. For motivated graduates in public administration, management, or finance, this internship offers a practical, supported environment to build essential career foundations.
The programme’s transparent application process, commitment to diversity, and geographical inclusivity make it a credible and valuable opportunity for young professionals eager to contribute to their communities and the nation’s development.
If you meet the requirements and are ready to embark on a career-enhancing journey, make sure to submit your application by 29 August 2025 through the official online portal. Take that important step toward a fulfilling career in public service today.
If you need further assistance or have questions about the application, you can contact the designated SSETA representatives:
- Mr MS Ramogayana: (012) 943 2923 / 083 418 2618
- Ms TJ Moloto: 081 035 7725
Apply now and take the first step toward shaping South Africa’s future through public service!
