Announcement: MDA Training 2026 Programme – A 12-Month Internship in Artificial Intelligence and Technology
Media24, a prominent media enterprise in South Africa, has officially initiated the application process for its MDA Training 2026 Learning Skills Programme. This intensive, year-long internship is specifically tailored for recent university graduates aspiring to careers within the domains of artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, and digital innovation. Participants will acquire practical, real-world proficiencies through engagement with Media24’s premier digital news platforms, including News24, Netwerk24, Daily Sun, and various other esteemed brands within the corporate portfolio. MDA Training 2026 Programme
This initiative represents a significant early-career prospect in South Africa for 2026, targeting technology-oriented graduates who seek immersive practical experience, professional guidance, and systematic skill enhancement. For young professionals aiming to enter the rapidly growing technology sector, this programme offers structured exposure to AI development, data-driven decision-making, and modern digital media workflows.
Overview of the MDA Training 2026 Programme
The MDA Training Programme is a comprehensive, full-time structured internship integrating on-the-job learning with advanced technological instruction. Interns will operate within Media24’s Technology divisions, acquiring exposure to cloud computing environments, AI development frameworks, data-centric problem resolution, and collaborative product innovation. This exposure is crucial in a world where artificial intelligence and digital automation are redefining how industries operate.
This 12-month internship is expressly designed for graduates intent on establishing a robust technical foundation while contributing substantively to South Africa’s leading digital media brands. With a combination of training, mentorship, and hands-on project work, the programme equips participants with the readiness required for employment in competitive tech roles such as AI developer, cloud engineer, data scientist, or machine learning technician.
Intern Activities During the 12-Month Programme
The curriculum encompasses technical education, applied research, and direct project implementation. Participants will collaborate with seasoned software engineers, AI specialists, and product development teams to build industry-level competencies. The programme follows a structured learning model that allows interns to progressively expand their capabilities and apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges.
1. Engagement with Cutting-Edge Technology
Media24 leverages cloud platforms and contemporary AI technologies across its digital brands. Interns will engage with:
- Advanced cloud-based development environments
- AI frameworks
- Data pipelines
- Scalable system architectures
Exposure to these tools enables interns to develop core proficiencies required for modern workplaces. The ability to design, build, and test applications in cloud-driven environments is now considered essential across most technology-driven industries.
This foundational training enables the application of theoretical knowledge in practical industry scenarios, ensuring that interns develop job-ready skills by the time they complete the programme.
2. Participation in Collaborative, Cross-Functional Teams
Candidates will be integrated into multidisciplinary teams comprising data scientists, developers, designers, and engineers. Working in such environments promotes:
- Team collaboration
- Agile methodology practices
- Clear communication
- Problem-solving through collective innovation
Interns learn how digital products are conceptualised, developed, tested, and deployed within large-scale organisations. This cross-functional exposure teaches participants the importance of collaboration in fast-paced tech environments.
3. Development of AI-Focused Projects
One of the most significant aspects of the programme involves participation in the complete lifecycle of AI project development, including:
- Concept creation
- Data acquisition and preprocessing
- Model creation and training
- Evaluation and optimization
- Deployment and maintenance
Interns will contribute to designing scalable AI systems using various programming languages and development tools. These hands-on tasks prepare participants to take on real AI and machine learning roles after completing the programme.
4. Conducting Research and Sustaining Current Knowledge
A fundamental component of the internship involves exploring contemporary AI methodologies, nascent technologies, and international best practices. Interns are encouraged to stay informed about:
- New machine learning frameworks
- AI research and innovations
- International technology trends
- Ethical considerations in artificial intelligence
This focus on continuous learning ensures that participants remain competitive and adaptable in a globally evolving technological landscape.
Minimum Requirements for Applicants
Prior professional experience is not a prerequisite; however, applicants must satisfy the stipulated academic and fundamental criteria.
Required Qualifications
Candidates are required to possess one of the following academic credentials: a BSc Hons degree, Electronics Engineering, or an equivalent qualification. Relevant subjects include Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science. Consideration is also given to applicants demonstrating proven programming proficiency and a minimum academic achievement of 65%. A background in second- or third-year level Mathematics and Statistics is preferred.
These requirements ensure that applicants have a solid foundation in analytical thinking, mathematical logic, and computational concepts—all essential components in AI and advanced technology fields.
Other Requirements
- South African citizenship is mandatory.
- Candidates must possess the ability to implement and apply fundamental AI algorithms.
- A basic comprehension of AI techniques such as:
- Linear regression
- Logistic regression
- Random forests
- Boosted trees
- Multilayer perceptron
These introductory concepts are considered essential for participation in the programme and prepare interns for advanced machine learning applications.
Preferred Attributes and Skills
Media24 endeavors to attract candidates who exhibit technical inquisitiveness, a strong desire for continuous learning, and adaptability within a dynamic technological milieu.
Ideal candidates are:
- Situated in Cape Town and commit to daily on-site attendance.
- Inquisitive, analytical, and possess strong problem-solving capabilities.
- Adept at managing multiple responsibilities and prioritizing effectively.
- Proficient communicators who proactively seek clarification and guidance.
- Passionate about technology, media, and innovation.
- Meticulously organized while comfortable with ambiguity.
These qualities are instrumental for success within Media24’s collaborative and high-performance teams.
Benefits for Successful Applicants
The MDA Training 2026 Programme constitutes a preeminent early-career technological development opportunity within the nation. Participants gain access to industry-leading resources, mentorship, and structured development opportunities.
Key Programme Benefits
- Direct workplace involvement in software development and AI, encompassing active Media24 projects within operational environments.
- A full 12-month internship contract, with placement at Media24’s contemporary Cape Town Foreshore facility.
- Exposure to critical AI and data science domains through multiple rotations, including natural language processing, predictive analytics, machine learning pipelines, and AI-driven newsroom technology.
- Professional guidance provided by experienced engineers and AI specialists, offering mentorship, code review, and continuous assistance.
- Opportunities for formal professional development and certification through online platforms and internal training resources.
- Encouragement for continued academic and professional advancement through structured learning plans.
- A structured, conducive learning environment emphasizing continuous growth, practical application, and collaborative effort across diverse technological disciplines.
Candidates are required to furnish certified copies of their academic records as part of the submission protocol.
Employment Equity Consideration
In adherence to Media24’s employment equity policy, preferential consideration will be accorded to applicants from designated demographic groups. Nevertheless, all qualified South African citizens are invited to submit their applications. The organisation remains committed to creating an inclusive work environment that reflects the diversity of South Africa.
Application Procedure for the MDA Training 2026 Programme
Applications are to be submitted exclusively online via Media24’s official recruitment portal:
Apply here: https://media24.simplify.hr/Vacancy/161560
Prospective candidates should prepare:
- Certified copies of academic transcripts
- A current Curriculum Vitae
- Verification of qualification or enrollment
Manual submissions will not be processed.
Applicants are advised to apply before the closing date and ensure that all required documents are valid and correctly certified.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the duration of the MDA Training Programme?
It constitutes a 12-month, full-time internship situated in Cape Town.
2. Is prior work experience mandatory?
No. This programme is specifically formulated for recent graduates lacking prior professional experience.
3. What fields of study are accepted?
Academic qualifications in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Electronics Engineering, or cognate disciplines possessing robust programming and analytical components.
4. Do interns receive remuneration?
Remuneration details are usually provided during the recruitment stage. Media24 typically offers competitive internship stipends aligned with industry standards.
5. Is the programme fully on-site?
Yes. The programme necessitates full-time, on-site attendance at Media24’s Foreshore premises in Cape Town.
6. Are international applicants eligible?
No. Eligibility is restricted to South African citizens.
7. What level of AI knowledge is required?
A foundational understanding of machine learning algorithms is expected, including familiarity with supervised learning models.
8. Can the internship lead to full-time employment?
While not guaranteed, many interns successfully transition into permanent roles depending on performance and company needs.
9. When does the internship begin?
The programme begins in 2026, with exact dates shared during the final stages of recruitment.
10. Is accommodation provided?
No. Interns are expected to arrange their own accommodation, preferably within Cape Town.
Concluding Remarks
The MDA Training 2026 Learning Skills Programme provides a distinctive and significant opportunity for South African graduates to acquire direct proficiency in artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, and digital product development. Furnished with access to industry specialists, authentic projects, and structured developmental trajectories, this internship is eminently suitable for graduates aspiring to establish a substantive career within one of the nation’s most sophisticated technological landscapes.
Prospective candidates are advised to submit applications promptly to ensure consideration for Media24 Technology’s 2026 cohort. This programme not only enhances technical expertise but also builds confidence, professional maturity, and long-term career potential for young South African graduates entering the digital future.
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
