Apply For Services SETA:SETA is Hiring People To Apply for An Internships 2026

Company : Services SETA
Location : Johannesburg, South Africa
Closing date: 16 January 2026

SETA service internships form part of the broader national strategy to address unemployment, particularly among youth and recent graduates. By combining theoretical knowledge with real-world work exposure, these internships help participants transition from education into the labour market.

What Is a SETA Service Internship?

A SETA service internship is a fixed-term workplace-based training programme supported or funded by a SETA. It is typically offered to individuals who have completed a qualification from a university, university of technology, or TVET college but lack relevant work experience. The internship allows participants to apply their academic knowledge in a professional environment while developing practical skills.

Internships are usually hosted by SETAs themselves or by partner organisations such as government departments, public entities, private companies, and non-profit organisations. The duration of a SETA service internship often ranges from 12 to 24 months, depending on the programme and funding framework.

Purpose of SETA Service Internships

The primary purpose of a SETA service internship is to improve employability. Many employers require work experience, which can be a barrier for first-time job seekers. SETA internships aim to close this gap by offering structured exposure to the workplace.

These programmes also support national development goals by ensuring that skills training is aligned with labour market needs. Interns gain industry-relevant experience while organisations benefit from additional capacity and fresh perspectives.

Common Fields Covered by SETA Internships

SETA service internships are available across a wide range of sectors, reflecting the diversity of South Africa’s economy. The specific fields depend on the mandate of each SETA. Common areas include:

Administration and Office Management
Human Resources and Labour Relations
Finance, Accounting, and Supply Chain Management
Information Technology and Systems Support
Project Management and Monitoring
Education, Training, and Development
Engineering and Technical Support

Each internship is structured to ensure that the intern gains relevant skills, workplace discipline, and exposure to industry standards.

Who Qualifies for a SETA Service Internship?

Although requirements vary between SETAs and programmes, SETA service internships generally target:

South African citizens
Unemployed graduates or diplomates
Individuals who have completed qualifications aligned with the SETA’s sector
Youth between the ages of 18 and 35
Previously disadvantaged individuals, in line with transformation objectives

Interns are usually required not to have participated in a similar internship before, ensuring that opportunities reach first-time entrants into the job market.

Stipends and Support

Most SETA service internships offer a monthly stipend to assist interns with basic living expenses such as transport and meals. While the stipend is not a salary, it enables participants to focus on skills development without significant financial strain.

In addition to financial support, interns often receive mentoring, supervision, and performance evaluations. This structured support helps participants develop both technical and soft skills, including communication, teamwork, and time management.

Benefits of Participating in a SETA Service Internship

Participation in a SETA service internship offers several long-term benefits. Interns gain practical experience that strengthens their curriculum vitae and improves their competitiveness in the job market. Exposure to professional environments also helps individuals build networks and gain references that may support future employment opportunities.

From a skills perspective, interns develop an understanding of workplace culture, reporting structures, and professional expectations. These experiences are often difficult to gain through academic study alone.

Importance of SETAs in National Skills Development

SETAs are central to South Africa’s skills planning framework. By funding internships, learnerships, and other training initiatives, SETAs ensure that education and training are aligned with economic priorities. Service internships, in particular, help ensure that public and private sector organisations have access to a pipeline of skilled and work-ready individuals.

Through these programmes, SETAs contribute to reducing youth unemployment and supporting inclusive economic growth.

Conclusion

A SETA Service Internship is an important pathway for graduates and young professionals seeking workplace experience in South Africa. By combining structured training with practical exposure, these internships help bridge the gap between education and employment.