UNISA and ETDP-SETA Internships 2026: 9 Graduate Opportunities Available

The University of South Africa (UNISA) and the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP-SETA) are offering nine internship positions for unemployed UNISA graduates. This 24-month programme aims to provide valuable workplace experience in Human Resource Development, Employee Relations and Wellness, and Supply Chain Management. Applications are open to UNISA graduates who meet specific criteria and are looking to start their careers.

Application Closing Date: 04 August 2026
Location: UNISA Muckleneuk Campus and Florida Campus, Gauteng, South Africa
Programme Duration: 24 months
Stipend: R127 576 per annum
Minimum Qualification: UNISA qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher

About the UNISA and ETDP-SETA Internship Programme 2026

This internship programme is a collaboration between UNISA and ETDP-SETA. It is designed to equip unemployed graduates with practical skills and exposure in key administrative and operational areas. The programme focuses on structured learning and workplace experience, offering a pathway for graduates to develop their professional capabilities within the education and public sectors.

The initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and the demands of the professional world. By providing hands-on experience, the programme supports the development of a skilled workforce, particularly within the human resources and supply chain fields. Preference is given to persons with disabilities, aligning with UNISA’s commitment to Employment Equity.

About UNISA

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is one of the largest open and distance learning universities in the world. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications across various disciplines. UNISA plays a significant role in higher education in South Africa and across the African continent, providing accessible education to a diverse student body.

Available Internship Positions

This internship programme offers opportunities across three key departments. Each position requires a specific qualification and is based at one of UNISA’s Gauteng campuses.

• Human Resource Development
• Employee Relations and Wellness Directorate
• Supply Chain Management

Human Resource Development Internships

Four internship positions are available within the Human Resource Development department. Applicants for these roles must have completed a UNISA qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher in Human Resource Management. These positions are based at the Muckleneuk Campus.

Employee Relations and Wellness Internships

Two internship opportunities are offered within the Employee Relations and Wellness Directorate. Suitable candidates will have completed a diploma or degree in Human Resource Management, Labour Relations, or Labour Law. These internships are also located at the Muckleneuk Campus.

Supply Chain Management Internships

Three internship positions are available in Supply Chain Management. Applicants must hold a relevant degree or National Diploma in fields such as Operations Management, Public Procurement, Supply Chain and Operations Management, Financial Management, or Transport and Logistics. These roles are based at both the Muckleneuk and Florida campuses.

What the Internship Offers

Successful interns will gain significant benefits during their 24-month placement. This includes valuable on-the-job training and exposure to professional work environments.

• 24 months of structured workplace experience.
• Exposure to Human Resource Development, Employee Relations, or Supply Chain Management functions.
• A monthly stipend of approximately R10 631.33 (R127 576 per annum).
• Development of practical skills and professional competencies.
• Opportunity to work within a leading educational institution.

Programme Duration and Location

The internship programme is set to run for a period of 24 months. Successful candidates are expected to begin their roles on 17 August 2026. The internships will be based at UNISA’s Muckleneuk Campus and Florida Campus in Gauteng, South Africa. Applicants must be available for the entire duration of the programme.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for these internship positions, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be unemployed South African citizens.
• Be 35 years old or younger.
• Have completed a qualification through UNISA.
• Hold a qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher.
• Possess a qualification relevant to the specific position applied for.
• Have no formal work experience in the field for which they are applying.
• Not have been previously employed by UNISA or another organisation in a similar capacity.
• Ensure the correct position reference and UNISA student number are entered on the application.
• Submit a separate application for each position of interest.
• Upload all compulsory supporting documents in the correct format.
• Be available for the full 24-month programme.

Competencies Required

Successful candidates will need to demonstrate a range of skills and personal attributes to excel in the internship. These competencies are essential for effective performance and professional growth.

• Microsoft Office 365 computer literacy.
• Proficiency in using the internet for research and communication.
• Good interpersonal skills for effective teamwork.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Willingness to work effectively within a team.
• Ability to work under supervision and follow instructions.
• Skill in prioritising responsibilities and managing tasks.
• Attention to detail in all work performed.
• Commitment, responsibility, and punctuality.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Proficiency in English.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Effective time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Willingness to go the extra mile.

Who Should Apply?

This internship programme is ideal for unemployed UNISA graduates who are eager to gain practical experience in Human Resource Development, Employee Relations and Wellness, or Supply Chain Management. If you have recently completed your qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher and have limited or no formal work experience in your chosen field, this opportunity could be a great starting point for your career. It is particularly suited for those looking to build a professional foundation within the public sector or educational institutions.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents as part of their application:

• A comprehensive and updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A certified copy of your South African identity document (not older than six months).
• A certified copy of your Matric certificate (not older than six months).
• A certified copy of your academic record (not older than six months).
• A certified copy of your completed UNISA qualification (not older than six months).

All certified copies must be recent, having been certified within the last six months.

Important Document Format Instructions

All supporting documents must be scanned and combined into one single PDF document. This combined PDF must be readable and ensure all pages are visible. The following will not be accepted: photographs of documents, separate image files, password-protected documents, or files in formats other than PDF. Applicants should open the combined document before submission to verify its integrity.

Position Reference and UNISA Student Number

It is critical that applicants enter the correct position reference and their UNISA student number accurately on the application portal. If you are applying for more than one position, you must complete a separate online application for each opportunity. The advertisement does not specify individual reference numbers for each department, so applicants must carefully check the online form to select the correct position before submitting their application.

How to Apply for UNISA and ETDP-SETA Internships 2026

Applications must be submitted online through the designated Microsoft application form.

Click here to apply for UNISA and ETDP-SETA Internships 2026

The online application link is restricted to eligible UNISA students and graduates. Applicants should follow these steps:

1. Open the online application form.
2. Sign in using your UNISA-linked details.
3. Select the correct internship position you are applying for.
4. Enter the correct position reference number.
5. Enter your correct UNISA student number.
6. Complete all compulsory application questions accurately.
7. Combine all required documents into one PDF file.
8. Upload the single PDF document.
9. Review all entered information and uploaded documents carefully.
10. Submit your application by 23:59 on 04 August 2026.

Remember to complete a separate application for each position if you are interested in multiple opportunities.

Internship Application Closing Date

The deadline for applications is 04 August 2026 at 23:59. Late applications may not be considered. It is advisable to submit your application well before the closing date to avoid any potential technical issues, file-upload errors, or internet interruptions that could prevent successful submission.

Employment Equity

UNISA is committed to diversity, inclusion, and universal access. Applications are welcomed from candidates of all backgrounds. For this specific internship programme, preference will be given to persons with disabilities, in line with UNISA’s Employment Equity Plan.

Relocation Costs

Successful applicants will be responsible for their own relocation expenses. UNISA will not cover any costs associated with travel, accommodation, or living arrangements for interns who need to relocate to Muckleneuk or Florida. Applicants should factor these personal costs into their decision.

Background Checks

All successful candidates will undergo background checks. These may include verification of identity, citizenship, academic qualifications, UNISA student records, previous employment history, criminal records, and the information provided in the application. Applicants must ensure that all information supplied is truthful and accurate.

Application Outcome

Correspondence regarding applications will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted and must make themselves available for interviews on dates determined by UNISA. If you have not been contacted within 30 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

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