South Africa is facing a significant challenge: youth unemployment. Many graduates and students struggle to find meaningful work experience that bridges the gap between academic qualifications and the real world of work. In response to this, structured internship programs have become one of the most practical solutions to help young people develop essential skills and increase their employability. Among these, the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA) 2025 Internship Program stands out as an excellent opportunity for students and graduates to gain hands-on experience, build professional networks, and earn a stipend while learning. Onlinelearnership Services SETA Internship Programme 2026
In this guide, you will find all the key information about the Services SETA 2025 Internship Program — from the services and programs available to application details, benefits, and frequently asked questions.
What is Services SETA?
The Services SETA is one of South Africa’s Sector Education and Training Authorities, established under the Skills Development Act. Its core mission is to improve skills development within the services sector and to promote sustainable employment for young South Africans.
By providing internships, learnerships, and other skills development programs, Services SETA supports the government’s vision of a skilled workforce ready to contribute to economic growth. Through these programs, participants gain industry-relevant knowledge and real-world experience that employers value.
Overview of the 2025 Internship Program
The Services SETA Internship Program for 2025 is designed primarily for graduates and students who have completed at least a National Diploma (NQF Level 6). This program offers structured workplace learning over a fixed-term contract, usually lasting one to two years depending on the role and department needs.
Key Program Details:
- Program Type: Internship
- Job Type: Contract
- Duration: 12 to 24 months
- Monthly Stipend: Approximately R7,000
- Application Deadline: 29 December 2025
- Locations: Various provinces across South Africa
- Target Audience: Graduates and final-year students who have met their qualification requirements
This internship program provides a valuable chance to build professional confidence and skills in a supportive, structured work environment, helping young people transition smoothly from education to the workplace.
Services and Internship Opportunities
The Services SETA 2025 Internship Program offers multiple internship roles across departments, each designed to give participants exposure to different operational areas. Here’s a detailed look at some of the key internship placements available:
1. Provincial Operations Intern (Ref: SS-129)
- Locations: Across all provinces including Cape Town, Durban, Bloemfontein, Polokwane, Johannesburg, and others.
- Minimum Qualifications: National Diploma in Business Administration, Public Management, Project Management, Human Capital, or related fields.
- Key Responsibilities: Manage office administration, support stakeholder engagement, maintain professional communication, assist with data reporting and courier dispatch.
2. Operations Intern (Ref: SS-130)
- Location: Johannesburg North
- Qualifications: Diploma in Business Management, Office Administration, Project Management, or related fields.
- Role: Operational support, office management, assisting project implementation.
3. Office of the CEO Intern (Ref: SS-122)
- Location: North Johannesburg
- Qualifications: Diploma in Public Management, Business Administration, or related.
- Responsibilities: Administrative support to the executive office, assisting with scheduling, communications, and document preparation.
4. Strategy and Insights Intern (Ref: SS-123)
- Location: Johannesburg North
- Qualifications: Diploma in Auditing, Business Administration, Monitoring and Evaluation, Research, or related.
- Focus: Support strategic planning, research, and data analysis.
5. Human Capital Management Intern (Ref: SS-135)
- Location: Johannesburg North
- Qualifications: Diploma in Human Resources or Public Administration.
- Role: Support recruitment, staff development, and HR administration.
6. Communications and Marketing Intern (Ref: SS-125)
- Location: North Johannesburg
- Qualifications: Diploma in Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, Graphic Design, or related fields.
- Duties: Assist with marketing campaigns, social media management, design, and communication activities.
7. Information Technology Intern (Ref: SS-126)
- Location: Johannesburg North
- Qualifications: Diploma in IT, Computer Science, Information Security, or related fields.
- Responsibilities: Support IT infrastructure, assist with system maintenance, and technical troubleshooting.
8. Finance Intern (Ref: SS-124)
- Location: Johannesburg North
- Qualifications: Diploma in Finance, Commerce, or similar.
- Duties: Support financial reporting, bookkeeping, and budget tracking.
What Interns Can Expect: Core Responsibilities
While duties vary depending on the department, all interns are expected to uphold professional conduct and contribute actively to their teams. Typical tasks include:
- Managing reception and office administration duties
- Greeting and assisting visitors and clients professionally
- Handling phone calls and messages efficiently
- Assisting with document management such as photocopying, scanning, and filing
- Supporting data collection and reporting for projects
- Helping organize meetings and stakeholder engagements
- Troubleshooting minor office issues
- Maintaining a clean and organized workspace
These tasks build transferable skills such as communication, time management, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are highly valued in any career path.
Benefits of Participating in the Services SETA Internship Program
The program offers several advantages that make it a great stepping stone toward professional success:
- Monthly stipend: R7,000 to help cover living expenses while you gain experience
- Hands-on experience: Practical learning aligned with your academic qualifications
- Professional mentorship: Guidance from experienced supervisors and colleagues
- Career readiness: Improved employability through real workplace exposure
- Networking: Build relationships with professionals and institutions within the services sector
- Opportunity for growth: Some interns may transition to permanent roles or further training
How to Apply for the Services SETA 2025 Internship
Applications are only accepted through the official online portal provided by Services SETA. To apply successfully:
- Prepare an updated CV, clearly showing your qualifications and experience.
- Scan and certify copies of your academic certificates and South African ID document.
- Select the correct internship reference number for the position you want.
- Submit your application before the closing date: 29 December 2025.
- Follow all instructions carefully to avoid disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply for the Services SETA internship?
Any South African citizen with a National Senior Certificate (NQF Level 4) and a National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in a relevant field can apply.
2. Can current students apply?
Mostly, the program targets graduates, but students who have completed all their qualification requirements may also be considered.
3. Is the internship paid?
Yes, interns receive a monthly stipend of approximately R7,000 for the duration of their contract.
4. How long does the internship last?
Internships last from one to two years depending on the role and operational requirements.
5. Does the internship guarantee a permanent job?
No. While the internship improves your skills and employability, it does not guarantee permanent employment.
6. Can I apply for multiple positions?
Yes, but you must submit a separate application for each position using the correct reference number.
7. Where are the internship placements available?
Positions are available across South Africa’s provinces, with many opportunities concentrated in Johannesburg North and other major cities.
8. What happens after I apply?
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews or assessments. If you don’t receive feedback, your application was likely unsuccessful.
Final Thoughts
The Services SETA 2025 Internship Program is an invaluable opportunity for South African graduates and students to gain the workplace experience they need to start their careers. It offers structured learning, a monthly stipend, and professional development that can open doors to future employment. With diverse placement options and roles across several provinces, this program supports national skills development and empowers young professionals to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economy.
If you meet the requirements and want to jumpstart your career, don’t miss out on applying before the deadline on 29 December 2025. Take this chance to learn, grow, and build a future you can be proud of!
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.
