The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) has officially reopened applications for the CIPC E-Communications Graduate Internship Programme 2026—giving young South Africans another chance to kickstart their careers. Many graduates struggle to find work because most employers ask for experience, even for entry-level positions. This internship solves that challenge by giving you practical experience, professional exposure, and a real opportunity to build your future.
If you are a recent graduate who is unemployed and has never taken part in an internship before, this programme is specifically designed for you. CIPC is calling on motivated, disciplined, and ambitious young people to take advantage of this second opportunity.
Why This Internship Matters
For many young people, especially TVET graduates, finding employment after completing studies can be discouraging. Employers often want candidates who already have workplace exposure, yet graduates need that very exposure to prove themselves. This programme helps you break through that cycle.
The CIPC E-Communications Internship Programme offers:
- Exposure to real government work environments
- A chance to apply the skills from your National N Diploma
- Structured mentorship from experienced professionals
- Growth in communication, teamwork, and administration
- Two full years of practical work experience
- Better employability for future job opportunities
If you’ve ever felt overlooked or stuck due to lack of experience, this internship can be the stepping stone you need.
Programme Overview
Below is a clear breakdown of the 2026 CIPC E-Communications Graduate Internship details:
- Programme: CIPC E-Communications Graduate Internship Programme 2026
- Reference Number: E-Communication Interns
- Location: Sunnyside Office, Pretoria
- Duration: 24 months (2 years)
- Stipend: R12,000 per month
- Who Can Apply: Unemployed South African graduates aged 18–35
- Required Qualification: National N Diploma in Management Assistant (TVET)
- Application Method: Online only
- Closing Date: 4 December 2025
This internship is fully funded, and the stipend is provided to help cover daily expenses such as transport, food, and work-related essentials.
About CIPC
The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) is an agency within the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic). CIPC is responsible for key functions that support South Africa’s business environment, including:
- Company registrations
- Management of intellectual property (trademarks, patents, copyrights, designs)
- Ensuring businesses operate legally
- Providing business information and support services
- Using digital platforms to improve public service delivery
Working at CIPC exposes you to how government structures operate, how communication flows within an organization, and how businesses across the country interact with the state. This is hands-on knowledge that opens doors to long-term opportunities.
What the Internship Offers
This internship aligns with government efforts to improve youth employment and skills development. It is more than just a job; it is a structured training programme designed to help graduates transition into the professional world.
Key Benefits:
1. Practical Work Exposure
You will work alongside experienced teams handling communication duties, administrative tasks, stakeholder engagement, and digital communication. This gives you real, actionable experience that employers value.
2. Professional Development
You will be guided by mentors who will help you improve your communication, organization, time management, and overall professionalism.
3. Digital and Administrative Skills
Interns gain hands-on experience in:
- Office administration tools
- Email and communication systems
- Digital documentation
- Customer interaction
- Scheduling and coordination
These skills make you suitable for various admin and communication roles after completion.
4. Career Readiness
After 24 months, you will have a strong foundation of experience that makes you more employable than the average graduate.
Who Qualifies for the Internship?
To be considered, applicants must meet all the requirements listed below:
Essential Qualification:
- National N Diploma in Management Assistant (TVET)
General Requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be between 18 and 35 years old
- Must be unemployed
- Must not have participated in any internship before
- Must have no prior work experience
- Must be able to work on-site at the Sunnyside Office in Pretoria
This internship is meant for first-time job seekers who need practical experience.
Important Documents Needed
When applying, ensure you upload:
- A comprehensive CV
- Certified ID copy
- Certified qualification (National N Diploma)
- Any additional documents requested on the portal
Failing to upload the correct documents in the correct sections will automatically disqualify you.
Stipend Information
Interns will receive a monthly allowance of R12,000. This stipend is provided to help you support yourself while completing the internship. It allows you to focus on your training without worrying about transport or daily expenses.
Work Location
All interns must work on-site at the:
CIPC Sunnyside Office, Pretoria
This is important for training, supervision, and gaining real workplace exposure.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
CIPC only accepts online applications. Follow these steps carefully to avoid errors:
Step 1:
Have your ID and qualification certified at a police station or post office.
Step 2:
Visit the CIPC Careers Portal.
Step 3:
Search for the post titled:
“E-Communications Graduate Internship Programme 2026”
Step 4:
Upload your documents in the correct sections exactly as requested.
Step 5:
Submit your application before the deadline:
4 December 2025
Note:
No hand-delivered applications, emails, or fax submissions will be accepted.
What Happens After Applying?
Shortlisting
Only candidates who meet the requirements will be shortlisted. CIPC will contact those individuals directly.
Interviews
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. Interview dates and instructions will be provided by CIPC.
Verification
CIPC will verify your:
- Citizenship
- Qualifications
- Eligibility for the internship
If you do not meet requirements, your application will not proceed to the next stage.
Career Path After the Internship
After completing the two-year internship, you will have real experience that employers look for. Graduates can pursue roles such as:
- Communications Assistant
- Office Administrator
- Public Relations Assistant
- Client Services Administrator
- Administrative Clerk
- Digital Communications Support
- Reception/Front Office Support
The 24 months of experience significantly boosts your chances of securing employment in government, corporate offices, NGOs, or private companies.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
✔ Prepare a clean, professional CV
Highlight your qualification, modules, computer skills, and soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and organization.
✔ Write a short motivational letter
Explain why you are interested in communications and why CIPC is your preferred training environment.
✔ Apply early
Do not wait for the last day. Systems sometimes experience high traffic.
✔ Double-check your documents
Incorrect uploads are one of the most common reasons applicants get disqualified.
✔ Keep your phone reachable
Shortlisted candidates are contacted directly, often within days after the closing date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the CIPC E-Communications Internship Programme?
Any unemployed South African graduate aged 18 to 35 who holds a National N Diploma in Management Assistant (TVET) and has never had an internship before.
2. Can I apply if I already completed an internship?
No. This programme is strictly for first-time interns.
3. Do I need experience to apply?
No experience is required. In fact, applicants must have no prior work experience.
4. How long is the internship?
The programme runs for 24 months.
5. Will I be paid?
Yes, interns receive a monthly stipend of R12,000.
6. Where will I work?
All work is done on-site at the CIPC Sunnyside Office in Pretoria.
7. Can I submit my application via email?
No. CIPC accepts online applications only.
8. What documents do I need to upload?
A certified ID copy, certified qualification, and your updated CV.
9. When does the application close?
The deadline is 4 December 2025.
10. How will I know if I am selected?
CIPC will contact shortlisted candidates directly. If you do not receive communication, your application was unsuccessful.
Closing Date: 4 December 2025
This opportunity is a strong stepping stone for young graduates looking to build a meaningful career. If you qualify, take this chance seriously, prepare your documents, and submit your application early. Opportunities like this do not come around often—make the most of it.
