In an effort to address youth unemployment and promote skills development within the agricultural sector, AgriSETA — the Sector Education and Training Authority for Agriculture — is inviting applications from unemployed South African graduates for its highly anticipated Skills Planning & Research Internship Programme 2026. With five internship positions available, this programme offers an exciting and practical opportunity for recent graduates to gain hands-on experience, build professional skills, and contribute meaningfully to the development of the agriculture industry in South Africa. AgriSETA Skills Planning & Research Internship 2026
AgriSETA’s internship programme aligns with the broader national agenda of human capital development by equipping young professionals with critical experience in data acquisition, research, reporting, and administration related to agricultural skills planning. This article outlines the details of the internship, eligibility criteria, benefits, and how to apply, while also addressing frequently asked questions to assist prospective applicants.
About AgriSETA
AgriSETA is a statutory body established under the Skills Development Act, focused specifically on skills development and training within South Africa’s agricultural sector. It serves as a critical intermediary between government, employers, employees, training providers, and other stakeholders to ensure that skills development initiatives are aligned with industry needs. By fostering capacity building and supporting skills planning, AgriSETA plays a vital role in enhancing the productivity and sustainability of the agricultural industry, which remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s economy.
The Skills Planning & Research Division within AgriSETA undertakes vital tasks such as collecting and analyzing agricultural sector data, developing reports that inform policy and strategy, and supporting research initiatives that advance skills development. Interns in this division will have the unique opportunity to be actively involved in these processes.
Internship Programme Overview
The AgriSETA Skills Planning & Research Internship Programme 2026 offers five (5) internship positions based at AgriSETA’s Head Office in Pretoria. The programme runs for 24 months and is aimed at recent graduates who are eager to build their careers within the agricultural sector by gaining professional experience in the following key areas:
- Data Acquisition: Collecting, organizing, and verifying agricultural sector data.
- Report Generation: Assisting in the preparation of reports and statistical documents.
- Administrative Support: Providing general administrative assistance to the Skills Planning & Research team.
- Research Activities: Supporting research projects that contribute to skills development strategies and policies.
The internship is designed as a comprehensive learning experience that combines practical work exposure with mentorship and guidance from seasoned professionals within AgriSETA.
Who Should Apply?
The internship programme targets unemployed South African graduates who meet the following criteria:
- South African citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens.
- Educational qualification: A relevant tertiary qualification (diploma or degree) in fields such as Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Data Science, Statistics, Research Methodology, Business Administration, or related areas is preferred.
- Unemployed status: Candidates must currently be unemployed at the time of application.
- Skills and competencies: Strong administrative, analytical, and data management skills. Ability to work with data, reports, and administrative tasks efficiently.
- Motivation: Demonstrated interest in the agricultural sector and a willingness to contribute to skills development in South Africa.
This programme is particularly suited for those looking to kick-start their careers with practical, on-the-job training within a structured, supportive environment.
Benefits of the Internship
Participating in the AgriSETA Skills Planning & Research Internship Programme offers multiple benefits, including:
- Professional Experience: Gain valuable work experience in the agricultural skills development field.
- Career Growth: Build a strong foundation for a career in agriculture, research, or data analysis.
- Competitive Stipend: Receive a competitive monthly stipend for the full 24-month duration, supporting interns financially as they focus on their career development.
- Networking Opportunities: Work alongside industry experts and professionals, expanding your professional network.
- Contribution to National Development: Play a part in improving the skills pipeline within the agriculture sector, a vital industry for South Africa’s economy and food security.
- Skill Enhancement: Develop and refine administrative, research, analytical, and reporting skills that are transferable to many career paths.
Application Process
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare and submit their applications well before the deadline of December 3, 2025. The application should include:
- A detailed CV (Curriculum Vitae).
- A motivation letter outlining why you are interested in the internship and how your skills align with the role.
- Certified copies of your academic qualifications and identity document.
- Email your cv here: sprinterns@agriseta.co.za
Applications must be sent to the designated AgriSETA email or physical address as indicated in the official internship advertisement.
Selection Process
Applications will be screened based on eligibility and suitability. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, which may include competency assessments relevant to data handling, administration, and research.
Final selection will prioritize candidates who demonstrate strong analytical skills, reliability, eagerness to learn, and a passion for contributing to agricultural skills development.
Why Skills Development in Agriculture Matters
Agriculture remains one of the key sectors in South Africa’s economy, providing employment and livelihoods for millions. However, the sector faces challenges such as skills shortages, especially in emerging farmers and agri-businesses. Programs like AgriSETA’s internship play a crucial role in addressing these gaps by:
- Supporting the development of a skilled agricultural workforce.
- Enhancing data-driven decision-making through research and skills planning.
- Contributing to the sustainability and growth of the agricultural sector.
- Empowering youth with relevant skills that improve employability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is AgriSETA?
AgriSETA is the Sector Education and Training Authority responsible for overseeing skills development initiatives within the agricultural sector in South Africa. It works to align education and training with industry needs to improve productivity and economic growth.
2. Who is eligible to apply for the Skills Planning & Research Internship?
The internship is open to unemployed South African graduates holding relevant qualifications such as diplomas or degrees in Agriculture, Data Science, Research, or related fields. Applicants must be motivated to develop skills in research, data handling, and administration within agriculture.
3. How long is the internship programme?
The programme runs for a full 24 months, allowing sufficient time for interns to gain practical experience and professional development.
4. Is the internship paid?
Yes, selected interns will receive a competitive monthly stipend throughout the 24-month programme.
5. Where is the internship based?
The internship positions are based at AgriSETA’s Head Office in Pretoria, South Africa.
6. What kind of work will interns do?
Interns will assist with data collection and analysis, report writing, administrative support, and research-related activities aimed at skills planning in the agricultural sector.
7. How do I apply?
Applicants must submit a CV, motivation letter, certified copies of qualifications and ID, and contact details of referees before the closing date of December 3, 2025. Specific submission instructions are provided in the official internship advertisement.
8. What skills are necessary for the internship?
Strong administrative, analytical, and data management skills are essential. Candidates should be comfortable working with data and reports and have good communication skills.
9. Can I apply if I am currently employed?
No, the internship is specifically for unemployed graduates seeking to gain experience and develop their careers.
10. What are the benefits of this internship?
Apart from the stipend, interns gain valuable professional experience, mentorship, networking opportunities, and contribute to the advancement of skills development in South Africa’s agricultural sector.
Conclusion
The AgriSETA Skills Planning & Research Internship Programme 2026 represents an invaluable opportunity for unemployed South African graduates to gain professional experience and become part of the critical work of developing skills within the agricultural sector. By offering hands-on training in data acquisition, reporting, research, and administration, this programme supports youth employment while strengthening the future of agriculture in the country.
Interested candidates should take advantage of this unique chance to kick-start their careers and contribute to national development by applying before the December 3, 2025 deadline. With five positions available and a competitive stipend on offer, this internship programme is a stepping stone towards a meaningful career in one of South Africa’s most vital industries.
