🎯 2026 SETA Internship Programmes in South Africa – A Complete Guide for Applicants

South Africa continues to face high youth unemployment, and one of the most effective solutions remains SETA-funded internship programmes. For 2026, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) will once again open applications for paid internship opportunities aimed at unemployed graduates and TVET college learners.

These internships are designed to give young people practical, on-the-job experience while earning a stipend. If you are looking to gain workplace exposure in 2026, this guide will help you understand how SETA internships work, who can apply, and where to submit your application.

🧩 Why SETA Internships Matter in 2026

Many South African graduates struggle to find work due to a lack of experience. SETA internships directly address this challenge by placing qualified individuals in real work environments where they can apply what they have learned.

For 2026, SETA programmes are expected to focus on scarce and critical skills, ensuring that interns gain experience in areas where employers are actively hiring. This makes SETA internships one of the most valuable entry points into the job market.

🏢 Types of Organisations That Host SETA Interns

Unlike traditional internships, SETA programmes place candidates in a wide range of institutions, including:

Government departments and municipalities
State-owned entities
Private companies
Non-profit organisations
Training providers and educational institutions

This variety allows interns to gain experience in both the public and private sectors, increasing future employment options.

📚 SETA Internship Categories for 2026

Applicants can expect internship opportunities in fields such as:

Office Administration and Human Resources
Information Technology and Digital Support
Finance, Accounting, and Supply Chain
Education, Training, and Skills Development
Health Administration and Community Services
Tourism, Hospitality, and Events
Engineering, Construction, and Technical Services
Agriculture, Environmental, and Rural Development

Each internship is aligned with a relevant qualification to ensure meaningful workplace learning.

🧑‍🎓 Who Should Apply?

SETA internship programmes for 2026 are aimed at:

South African citizens aged 18 to 35
Individuals who are currently unemployed
Graduates with diplomas or degrees
TVET college learners with N6 certificates
First-time internship applicants

Most SETAs prioritise youth, women, and persons with disabilities, in line with national transformation goals.

💼 What You Will Gain from a SETA Internship

Participants benefit in several important ways:

✔ Monthly stipend funded by government
✔ Hands-on work experience in your field of study
✔ Workplace discipline and professional skills
✔ Mentorship from experienced professionals
✔ Improved CV and job readiness
✔ Better chances of securing permanent employment

SETA internships are widely recognised by employers across South Africa.

📂 Documents You Must Prepare

Before applying, ensure you have:

A professionally written CV
Certified copy of your South African ID
Certified copies of qualifications
Academic transcripts
Short motivational letter
Proof of residence (if requested)

🌐 Where to Apply for SETA Internships 2026

Applications must be submitted via official SETA websites:

Public Service SETA (PSETA): https://www.pseta.org.za
Media, ICT SETA (MICT): https://www.mict.org.za
Education, Training & Development SETA (ETDP): https://www.etdpseta.org.za
Health & Welfare SETA (HWSETA): https://www.hwseta.org.za
Finance & Accounting SETA (FASSET): https://www.fasset.org.za
Construction SETA (CETA): https://www.ceta.org.za
Agriculture SETA (AgriSETA): https://www.agriseta.co.za

⚠️ SETAs do not charge application fees.

⏰ When to Apply

Most SETA internship opportunities for 2026 will open between November 2025 and April 2026. Because placements are limited, early applications are strongly advised.