The Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Paid Internship Programme, offering 24 months of structured workplace experience with a monthly stipend of R7 000. CHIETA’s Paid Internship Program 2026
This opportunity is specifically designed for National Diploma graduates who have no prior work experience, making it one of the most accessible and career-building internships currently available in South Africa. With placements across administrative, data, and project support roles, the programme aims to equip young professionals with practical skills, discipline, and real organisational exposure over a full two-year period.
For graduates struggling to enter the job market due to lack of experience, the CHIETA internship provides a credible, long-term pathway into employment while earning an income.
About CHIETA and Why This Internship Matters
CHIETA is a statutory body established under the Skills Development Act and plays a critical role in developing skills within South Africa’s chemical and manufacturing sectors. Beyond technical training, CHIETA is known for investing in administrative, governance, compliance, and data-driven skills, which are highly transferable across industries.
The 2026 internship programme reflects CHIETA’s continued commitment to:
- Youth employment and skills development
- Workplace readiness for graduates
- Building sustainable career pathways
- Supporting transformation and inclusive growth
Unlike short-term internships, this programme runs for 24 full months, allowing interns to develop depth, consistency, and professional maturity.
CHIETA’s Paid Internship Program 2026 Overview
- Programme Name: CHIETA Internship Opportunities
- Duration: 24 Months
- Monthly Stipend: R7 000
- Minimum Qualification: National Diploma (varies by role)
- Work Experience Required: None
- Closing Date: 11 February 2026 (by 16:30)
- Application Method: Email only
- Application Email: recruitment@chieta.org.za
Important Note:
Applicants must include the correct reference number in the email subject line. Failure to do so may result in automatic disqualification.
A valid driver’s licence is not compulsory, but it is listed as an added advantage.
Available CHIETA’s Paid Internship Program 2026
CHIETA has announced several internship positions across its head office and regional offices. Each role offers structured training aligned with professional standards.
1. Certification Administration Intern (ETQA – Head Office)
- Reference Number: CIC2026/001
- Minimum Qualification:
National Diploma in Management, Business Administration, or a related field
This role is ideal for candidates interested in:
- Administrative compliance
- Records and documentation management
- Quality assurance support
- Regulatory and certification processes
Interns will gain experience in structured office systems within a professional regulatory environment.
2. Data Management Intern (ETQA – Head Office)
- Reference Number: DMI2026/001
- Minimum Qualification:
National Diploma in Data Science, Computer Science, Information Technology, Statistics, or related fields
This internship is suited for graduates passionate about:
- Data systems and reporting
- Information management
- Analytical support
- Organisational data integrity
The role offers valuable exposure to real-world data handling in a regulated institutional setting.
3. Administration Intern (ETQA – Head Office)
- Reference Number: AIC2026/001
- Minimum Qualification:
National Diploma in Business Administration, Management, or a related field
This is a general administrative role focusing on:
- Daily office operations
- Coordination and scheduling
- Communication support
- Operational assistance
It is ideal for candidates seeking broad administrative experience.
4. Intern: Administration Support – Regions, Grants, and Projects (Head Office)
- Reference Number: AWC2026/001
- Number of Posts: 2
- Minimum Qualification:
National Diploma in Business Administration, Management, or related field
This role focuses on:
- Project administration
- Grant support and reporting
- Inter-departmental coordination
- Monitoring and documentation
It provides strong exposure to project-based work and organisational planning.
5. Intern: Administrative Support – Regions, Grants, and Projects (Gauteng Regional Office)
- Reference Number: AGP2026/001
- Minimum Qualification:
National Diploma in Business Administration, Management, or related field
This region-based opportunity is ideal for candidates looking to gain hands-on experience in:
- Stakeholder coordination
- Regional operations
- Project administration within Gauteng
Additional Minimum Requirements (All Positions)
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- National Diploma relevant to the role
- Minimum 65% academic average
- No prior work experience required
- Computer literacy is essential
- Valid driver’s licence is an added advantage
Applicants who meet or exceed the 65% academic requirement significantly improve their chances of selection.
Related Opportunities 2026
• Funding Bursaries
• Youth Opportunities
• Internship Programme
• Learnership Programme
• Online Courses
Skills and Competencies CHIETA’s Paid Internship Program 2026 Looks For
Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate:
- Strong planning and organisational skills
- Written and verbal communication ability
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking
- Professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work in a team environment
- Respect for diversity
- Willingness to learn and adapt
Even without work experience, these competencies can be demonstrated through:
- Academic projects
- Group assignments
- Leadership roles
- Volunteer work
- Community involvement
- Informal administrative exposure
What the R7 000 Monthly Stipend Covers
The R7 000 monthly stipend is intended to support interns with essential living costs, including:
- Transport expenses
- Food and basic living needs
- Data and communication costs
- Professional development requirements
Beyond the financial support, interns gain:
- Two years of verified work experience
- Professional references
- Improved employability
- Workplace confidence and discipline
This combination makes the programme especially valuable for first-time job seekers.
How to Apply for the CHIETA’s Paid Internship Program 2026
Applicants must submit their applications by email only.
Required Documents: CHIETA’s Paid Internship Program 2026
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of qualifications
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified academic transcripts
Application Email:
Email Subject Line Example:
Subject: DMI2026/001
Using the correct reference number is mandatory. Applications without it may not be considered.
Closing Date and Important Deadline
- Closing Date: 11 February 2026
- Time: No later than 16:30
Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
Why This Internship Is Ideal for New Graduates
The CHIETA 24-Month Paid Internship Programme stands out because it:
- Requires no prior work experience
- Offers long-term structured training
- Pays a consistent monthly stipend
- Builds real, transferable workplace skills
- Strengthens CVs for future employment
For graduates with National Diplomas who have struggled to enter the workforce, this programme provides a solid, credible foundation for career growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is work experience required to apply?
No. CHIETA specifically welcomes applicants with no prior work experience.
Can I apply with a National Diploma only?
Yes. A National Diploma relevant to the role is the minimum requirement.
Is the R7 000 stipend guaranteed for 24 months?
Yes, successful interns receive the stipend for the full duration, subject to programme conditions.
Can I apply for more than one position?
Yes, but each application must be sent separately with the correct reference number.
Is a driver’s licence compulsory?
No. It is listed as an added advantage, not a requirement.
Final Thoughts : CHIETA’s Paid Internship Program 2026
The CHIETA’s Paid Internship Program 2026 offers one of the most practical and accessible opportunities for National Diploma graduates in South Africa. With a clear structure, professional exposure, and a monthly stipend of R7 000, the programme is designed to bridge the gap between education and employment.
Graduates who meet the academic requirements and are ready to commit professionally should apply early and ensure all application instructions are followed carefully. This internship could be the first major step toward a sustainable and rewarding career.
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.
