University of the Free State ETDP SETA Internship 2026: Earn R8 500 Per Month

The University of the Free State is offering an exciting internship opportunity for unemployed graduates in Disaster Management. This 24-month programme, starting on 01 August 2026, provides a monthly stipend of R8 500 and is based at the Bloemfontein Campus. Applications are open to South African citizens with a Master’s degree in Disaster Management or a related field who have not previously participated in an internship. The closing date for applications is 20 July 2026.

Application Closing Date: 20 July 2026
Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
Programme Duration: 24 months
Stipend: R8 500 per month
Minimum Qualification: Master’s degree (NQF Level 9) in Disaster Management or related field
Opportunity Type: Internship

About the University of the Free State ETDP SETA Internship Programme

This internship is designed to provide valuable practical experience to recent graduates within the Disaster Management Training and Education Centre for Africa (DiMTEC) at the University of the Free State. The programme aims to equip interns with essential skills in disaster-risk reduction, climate adaptation, and resilience research. It offers a structured learning environment focused on real-world application of academic knowledge.

The internship is specifically for individuals who have completed a Master’s degree at NQF Level 9 in Disaster Management or a similar discipline. It is a fantastic chance for those looking to gain professional experience in a critical field. The programme emphasizes research, training, policy development, and stakeholder engagement within the disaster management sector.

About the University of the Free State

The University of the Free State (UFS) is a public university in Bloemfontein, South Africa. It is a comprehensive institution dedicated to teaching, research, and community engagement. UFS offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across various faculties, including Natural and Agricultural Sciences, where DiMTEC is housed. The university is committed to academic excellence and social impact.

Available Internship Opportunities

This advertisement is for one specific internship position:

• ETDP SETA Internship in Disaster Management

What the Internship Offers

Successful candidates will benefit from a comprehensive learning experience designed to boost their career prospects. The internship offers:

• Practical workplace experience in disaster management.
• Exposure to research projects in disaster-risk reduction and climate resilience.
• Training in data collection, analysis, and report writing.
• Assistance with planning and delivering training workshops.
• Engagement with various stakeholders, including government departments and NGOs.
• A monthly stipend of R8 500.
• A 24-month contract duration.
• Professional development opportunities.

Programme Duration and Location

This internship programme has a duration of 24 months. The successful candidate will be based at the University of the Free State’s Bloemfontein Campus in the Free State province of South Africa. The anticipated start date for the internship is 01 August 2026.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this internship, applicants must meet the following essential criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be between 18 and 35 years old.
• Be unemployed.
• Not be currently studying full-time.
• Have no previous formal work experience.
• Must not have participated in an internship programme before.
• Must not currently be participating in a learnership or internship.
• Be available for the full 24-month programme.
• Be willing to sign an internship agreement with the University of the Free State.
• Must have completed a Master’s degree at NQF Level 9 in Disaster Management or a closely related qualification.

Competencies Required

The ideal candidate should demonstrate the following skills and personal qualities:

• Results Orientation: Ability to set high standards, be reliable, and committed to completing responsibilities.
• Strategic Thinking: Strong attention to detail, good organizational skills, and logical problem-solving abilities.
• Business Acumen: Ability to follow procedures, proficiency in Microsoft Office, and understanding of workplace professionalism.
• Leadership and Teamwork: High motivation, ability to cooperate with colleagues, and a positive attitude.
• Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Who Should Apply?

This internship is ideal for unemployed South African graduates who have recently completed a Master’s degree in Disaster Management or a related field. If you are eager to gain hands-on experience in disaster-risk reduction, climate resilience, and research within a university setting, this opportunity is for you. It is particularly suited for individuals who are motivated, detail-oriented, and looking to build a career in this important sector.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents through the online application system:

• A detailed and updated CV.
• Copies of completed qualifications.
• Official proof of qualifications obtained.
• SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications (if applicable).
• A copy of a South African identity document.
• An affidavit confirming that the applicant is unemployed.
• An affidavit confirming that the applicant has not previously participated in a SETA-funded internship.
• Any other documents listed on the online vacancy page.

Applicants are advised to combine related documents into a maximum of eight PDF files for uploading.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the official University of the Free State recruitment portal.

Click here to apply for the University of the Free State ETDP SETA Internship 2026.

Use the following details to find the vacancy:
Position: ETDP SETA Internship
Job ID: 110357

Ensure that you complete the online application form accurately and upload all required documents before the closing date. Applications sent via email or hand delivery will not be considered.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
• Applicants must meet all the minimum requirements to be eligible.
• The University reserves the right not to fill the position.
• Personal information will be handled in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 20 July 2026. Applicants are urged to submit their applications well before this deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

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