The City of Johannesburg is looking for enthusiastic South African students for its 2026 Student Internship Programme (reference Circular 033/2025). This is a fantastic chance to gain practical experience in a real-world setting! City of Johannesburg 2026 Internship Programme
Key Dates & Details
- Application Deadline: Thursday, November 27, 2025
- Internship Length: Up to 18 Months
- Location: 61 Jorrisen Street, Thuso House, Johannesburg
About the Internship
The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) is keen on giving tertiary students valuable on-the-job exposure. This internship aims to help you complete your studies by providing practical skills or prepare you for the workforce after graduation.
If you live in Johannesburg, meet the requirements, and haven’t done an internship before, this opportunity is for you!
This specific internship is within the Group Finance Department, under the Communication & Stakeholder Management Branch. The City is dedicated to helping young people develop their skills, grow professionally, and create a fair and inclusive workplace. People with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply!
Available Internship
- Position: Marketing and Events Graphic Design Intern (1 spot)
- Department: Group Finance
- Branch: Communication & Stakeholder Management
- Location: 61 Jorrisen Street, Thuso House, Braamfontein
Stipend (Monthly):
- R10 109.86 if you’ve completed a qualification (minimum 360 credits)
- R3 500.00 if you’re currently a student
What You Need to Apply
- High School Diploma (Matric)
- National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in:
- Graphic Design
- Computer Graphics
- Visual Arts
- Marketing
- Web Design
- or a related field
- Experience with:
- Adobe Illustrator
- InDesign
- Photoshop
- After Effects
- Premiere Pro
- Toon Boom, plus familiarity with other graphic design software
- Solid grasp of design fundamentals: color, typography, layout, style, size, and composition for digital/print
- Must be a resident of Johannesburg
What You’ll Be Doing
As an intern, you’ll be helping the Communications & Stakeholder Management Unit by:
- Creating eye-catching graphics for online platforms and City branding
- Developing original designs, layouts, illustrations, and infographics
- Managing design projects from start to finish
- Producing top-notch print and digital materials
- Supporting multimedia and communication campaigns
- Working with various Group Finance units to support their communication needs
What You’ll Learn
- Developing creative design ideas
- Managing and updating communication channels for Group Finance
- Measuring the impact of design across different campaigns
- Exploring new digital trends and technologies
- Creating visual materials for print and online use
Key Skills & Abilities
Leading:
- Excellent writing and speaking skills
- Computer proficiency
- Strong planning and organizational skills
- Analytical and creative thinking
- Emotional intelligence
- Problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail
Core:
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Professionalism and integrity
- Customer and service-oriented
- Commitment to quality
How to Apply
👉 Click here to apply for the City of Johannesburg Student Internship (Circular 033/2025) (www.joburg.org.za)
Important Notes
- Apply online only
- Include:
- Certified copies of your qualifications
- Certified copy of your ID
- Detailed CV
- Use Google Chrome browser when applying
- Any false information will disqualify you
- Appointments will follow the City’s Employment Equity Policy
Questions?
Contact Thabiso Nkosi at (011) 021 5802.
Why the City of Johannesburg Internship Matters
Internships within public sector institutions like the City of Johannesburg give young people access to meaningful career development. Government departments often handle large-scale projects that require strong communication, planning, and creative direction. For students pursuing graphic design, marketing, or communication-related careers, this is a chance to be part of a structured and well-respected organisation.
In today’s competitive job market, experience matters. Many graduates struggle to secure their first job due to lack of practical exposure. The CoJ internship programme solves that by creating an environment where learning, training, and mentorship happen daily.
Interns become part of real projects—supporting public communication, producing design materials used across the city, and contributing to campaigns that reach millions of residents. This alone provides a strong foundation for future employment.
The Importance of Graphic Design in Public Communications
Graphic design plays a critical role in how citizens receive city updates, services, and announcements. Everything from public notices, digital campaigns, community event posters, newsletters, and social media updates require clear and engaging design. A well-designed communication piece can help improve awareness, encourage public participation, and strengthen community trust.
This internship teaches students how to communicate visually in a government environment—something that differs from private agencies or freelance work. In public service graphic design, clarity, accessibility, compliance, and accuracy are essential.
How This Internship Supports Career Growth
Interns who perform well are often considered for:
- Future job opportunities
- Contract positions
- Recommendations for other roles
- Networking opportunities in the corporate and government world
By working within Group Finance’s Communication & Stakeholder Management unit, interns will gain exposure to:
- Professional corporate branding
- Internal communications
- Public-facing media
- Government communication standards
- Campaign planning and execution
This builds skills that are recognised across various industries like marketing, advertising, creative design, media, and communications.
Tips for a Successful Internship Application
To increase the chances of being selected:
1. Prepare a Strong Portfolio
Include your best design work—logos, posters, infographics, digital designs, and motion graphics.
2. Write a Clear, Updated CV
Highlight your design skills, software expertise, and previous projects.
3. Attach Certified Documents
Ensure your matric certificate, ID, and qualification copies are certified and clear.
4. Be Honest
The City emphasizes truthfulness. Any false information immediately disqualifies applicants.
5. Apply Early
Don’t wait for the deadline; systems may be busy or unavailable
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the City of Johannesburg Internship?
Any South African student who lives in Johannesburg, has the required qualifications, and has not completed an internship before can apply.
2. Do I need experience to be accepted?
You do not need full work experience, but you must have practical experience using design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, After Effects, or similar tools.
3. Can I apply if I am still studying?
Yes. Students who are still studying can apply and will receive the student stipend rate.
4. How long does the internship last?
The internship runs for up to 18 months, giving you enough time to gain strong workplace experience.
5. Will I be paid during the internship?
Yes. The internship offers a monthly stipend depending on your qualifications.
6. Where will the internship take place?
At Thuso House, 61 Jorrisen Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
7. What documents are required when applying?
You must upload a certified ID, certified qualifications, and a detailed CV.
8. Can I submit my application in person?
No. Applications are only accepted online.
9. Is this internship suitable for beginners?
Yes. It’s ideal for students or recent graduates seeking industry experience.
10. Is the programme open to people with disabilities?
Yes. The City strongly encourages applications from people with disabilities.
