South African Forestry Company SOC Limited (SAFCOL) has officially opened applications for its YES Internship Programme 2026, a nationwide 12-month workplace exposure initiative designed for unemployed graduates and qualified artisans. YES Internship Programme 2026
With a monthly stipend of R5,000, placements across Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and Gauteng, and opportunities in finance, ICT, HR, supply chain, auditing, marketing, ecotourism, and executive administration, this programme stands out as one of the most practical entry-level career pathways available in South Africa for 2026.
This is not just about adding another line to your CV. The SAFCOL YES Programme is about entering the professional world, learning how real organisations operate, and gaining the experience employers consistently demand.
What Is the SAFCOL YES Internship Programme?
The YES (Youth Employment Service) Internship Programme is a structured, full-time internship aimed at helping young South Africans transition from academic qualifications into formal employment.
SAFCOL, as a state-owned forestry company, plays a strategic role in environmental sustainability, commercial forestry, and public sector development. Interns placed within SAFCOL gain exposure to regulated systems, governance, and real operational environments, which significantly strengthens employability after completion.
Quick Overview of the SAFCOL YES Internship 2026
- Organisation: South African Forestry Company SOC Limited (SAFCOL)
- Programme Name: YES Internship Programme 2026
- Duration: 12 months
- Monthly Stipend: R5,000
- Eligibility: Unemployed graduates and artisans
- Age Limit: 35 years or younger
- Locations:
- Pretoria (Gauteng)
- Mbombela & Sabie (Mpumalanga)
- Levubu (Limpopo)
- Closing Date: 6 February 2026
- How to Apply: Email applications to interns@safcol.co.za
Important: The correct reference number must be included in the email subject line.
Available Internship Opportunities at SAFCOL
SAFCOL has released multiple internship positions across key departments. Each role includes specific qualification requirements and reference codes.
1. Finance – Debtors (Pretoria, Gauteng)
Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Cost & Management Accounting or Finance
Reference: DEDT-PTA
What you will learn:
- Managing accounts receivable
- Tracking money owed to the organisation
- Invoicing processes and follow-ups
- Understanding debtor management in a public entity
2. Finance – Tax & Treasury (Mbombela, Mpumalanga)
Qualification: Degree in Taxation
Reference: TAX-MBO
Why this matters:
This role exposes interns to high-level finance functions such as compliance, reporting, treasury operations, and financial planning.
3. Finance – Creditors (Mbombela, Mpumalanga)
Qualification: Diploma, Degree, NHC or N-Courses in:
- Accounting
- Bookkeeping
- Management & Cost Accounting
Reference: CRE-MBO
Key skills gained:
- Processing supplier invoices
- Managing payments
- Accurate financial record-keeping
4. Supply Chain Management – Finance (Mbombela, Mpumalanga)
Number of Posts: Two
Qualification: Diploma or Degree in:
- Supply Chain Management
- Logistics
- Procurement
- Operations Administration
- Public Sector SCM
Reference: SCM-MBO
Supply chain management remains one of South Africa’s strongest career paths, connecting industries such as mining, manufacturing, retail, logistics, and government.
5. Finance – Group Reporting & Budgeting (Pretoria, Gauteng)
Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Finance or Accounting
Reference: FIN-PTA
This role is ideal for candidates aiming to become future finance managers, budget officers, or reporting specialists.
6. Strategy, Planning & Commercial – Communication and Marketing (Pretoria, Gauteng)
Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Graphic Design
Reference: COM-PTA
This internship allows creative graduates to build professional portfolios while working in a structured corporate environment.
7. Human Capital Operations – Practitioner (Mbombela, Mpumalanga)
Qualification:
- Bachelor’s Degree in HR Management
- National Diploma (NQF Level)
- N6 Certificate in HR Management
Reference: HC-MBO
Experience gained includes:
- HR administration
- Recruitment support
- Employee records management
- HR compliance processes
8. ICT – Support Technician (Mbombela, Mpumalanga)
Qualification: Diploma in Information Technology
Reference: ICT-MBO
Ideal for entry-level IT professionals seeking experience in systems support, troubleshooting, and user assistance.
9. Ecotourism – Property & Ecotourism (Sabie, Mpumalanga)
Qualification: Diploma in Ecotourism or Tourism Management
Reference: ECO-SAB
This is a unique opportunity combining tourism development with environmental sustainability.
10. Learning & Development (Levubu, Limpopo)
Qualification:
- Certificate in Business Administration
- Human Resource Development
- Training & Development
- ETDP Certification
Reference: L&D-TIM
Best suited for individuals interested in training, facilitation, coaching, and skills development.
11. CEO’s Office (Mbombela, Mpumalanga)
Qualification: N6 Diploma in Business Studies or Management Assistant
Reference: OFF-CEO
Interns gain direct exposure to executive operations, administrative systems, and strategic coordination.
12. Internal Auditing (Mbombela, Mpumalanga)
Qualification: National Diploma or BCom Degree in Internal Auditing
Reference: INT-AUD-MBO
13. Internal Auditing – Forensic (Mbombela, Mpumalanga)
Qualification:
- LLB
- BCom in Internal Auditing
- National Diploma
Reference: FOREN-MBO
Forensic auditing connects governance, investigation, compliance, and risk management.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To qualify for the SAFCOL YES Internship Programme 2026, applicants must:
- Be unemployed
- Hold a recognised National Diploma, Degree, or Trade Test Certificate
- Be 35 years old or younger
Employment Equity Considerations
In line with SAFCOL’s Employment Equity Plan, preference may be given to:
- Previously disadvantaged individuals
- Women
- Persons living with disabilities
This does not exclude other applicants but may influence shortlisting.
Required Documents (Very Important)
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified copy of South African ID
Tip: Blurry or outdated certifications can result in immediate disqualification.
How to Apply for the SAFCOL YES Internship 2026
Step 1: Prepare your email
Send applications to interns@safcol.co.za
Step 2: Use the correct reference number
Example subject line:
Application: SAFCOL YES Internship 2026 – ICT-MBO
Step 3: Attach all documents
- CV
- Certified ID
- Certified qualifications
Step 4: Apply before the deadline
Closing date: 6 February 2026
Apply early to avoid technical issues.
Expert Application Tips to Stand Out
- Tailor your CV to the specific internship
- Rename attachments professionally
- Keep your email brief and respectful
- Save proof of submission
Career Paths After Completing the Internship
Depending on the field, interns may progress into roles such as:
- Finance Administrator
- HR Administrator
- IT Support Technician
- Internal Auditor
- Junior Graphic Designer
- Ecotourism Officer
- Compliance or Risk Assistant
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the SAFCOL YES Internship paid?
Yes. Interns receive a monthly stipend of R5,000.
Is this a permanent job?
No. It is a 12-month internship, but it significantly improves employability.
Can I apply for more than one position?
Yes, but submit separate applications with correct reference numbers.
Are matric-only applicants eligible?
No. A post-school qualification or trade test is required.
Where are the placements located?
Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo.
Final Thoughts
The SAFCOL YES Internship Programme 2026 offers far more than temporary income. It provides structured exposure, professional credibility, and real workplace experience within a respected state–owned entity.
For unemployed graduates and artisans seeking a meaningful entry into the job market, this programme represents a powerful stepping stone into long-term career growth.
Apply early, apply correctly, and take this opportunity seriously.
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.
