CSIR and MICT SETA Invite South African Graduates to Apply for the 2026 Internship Programme
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), in partnership with the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA), has opened applications for its one-year Graduate Internship Programme.
The programme is designed to provide unemployed graduates with practical workplace experience in science, engineering, technology, media, communications, and business-related disciplines. Interns will work alongside experienced professionals, applying their academic knowledge in a real working environment while developing valuable technical and professional skills.
The internship will be based at the CSIR Scientia Campus in Pretoria, with a hybrid working arrangement.
This opportunity is ideal for graduates who want to improve their employability while gaining experience at one of South Africa’s leading research and innovation organisations.
Programme Overview
| Programme Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | CSIR / MICT SETA Internship Programme |
| Employer | Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) |
| Partner | MICT SETA |
| Programme Type | Graduate Internship |
| Contract Duration | 12 Months |
| Employment Type | Full-Time |
| Contract Type | Temporary |
| Workplace | Hybrid |
| Location | Scientia, Pretoria, Gauteng |
| Target Group | Unemployed South African Graduates |
About CSIR
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is one of South Africa’s premier scientific and technology research organisations. Through research, innovation, and technology development, CSIR supports economic growth, industrial development, and national innovation.
Working with government, industry, and academic institutions, the organisation develops practical solutions that contribute to South Africa’s scientific and technological advancement.
About the Internship Programme
The CSIR/MICT SETA Internship Programme provides graduates with structured workplace exposure under the guidance of experienced mentors.
Interns will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained during their studies while participating in projects that contribute to research, innovation, communication, technology, and business operations.
The programme focuses on developing workplace readiness, technical competence, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Fields of Study Accepted
Applications are invited from graduates who have completed qualifications in the following disciplines:
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Information Technology (IT)
- Informatics
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Business Information Systems
- Artificial Intelligence
- Systems Analysis
- Business Analysis
- Business Administration
- ICT Infrastructure
- Cloud Computing
Design and Media
- Multimedia Design
- Visual Communication
- Graphic Design
- Digital Media
- Media Studies
- Journalism
Marketing and Communications
- Marketing
- Event Management
- Corporate Events
- Public Relations
- Communication
Applicants with equivalent qualifications in these fields are also encouraged to apply.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Have completed a National Diploma, Degree, or equivalent qualification.
- Have completed studies in one of the approved disciplines.
- Be available for the full internship period.
Required Supporting Documents
Applications must include:
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Qualification certificate or official completion letter.
- Learner affidavit confirming that the applicant is not currently enrolled in any MICT SETA-funded programme or any other SETA-funded programme.
Applications submitted without all required documents may not be considered.
What You Will Learn
During the internship, participants may gain practical experience in:
- Research and Innovation
- Information Technology
- Software Development
- Cloud Computing
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business Analysis
- ICT Infrastructure
- Marketing Communications
- Public Relations
- Graphic Design
- Digital Content Creation
- Event Coordination
- Project Management
- Professional Communication
Skills You Will Develop
The internship is designed to help graduates develop:
- Technical Workplace Skills
- Problem-Solving
- Business Communication
- Research Skills
- Team Collaboration
- Digital Literacy
- Professional Ethics
- Time Management
- Project Coordination
- Analytical Thinking
- Innovation Skills
Why Apply?
The programme offers graduates an opportunity to:
- Gain practical workplace experience.
- Work with experienced professionals.
- Strengthen technical and professional skills.
- Improve future employment opportunities.
- Build a professional network.
- Enhance their CV through recognised industry experience.
- Contribute to South Africa’s research and innovation sector.
Career Opportunities After the Internship
Depending on your qualification, the internship can prepare you for roles such as:
ICT and Technology
- Software Developer
- IT Support Specialist
- Systems Analyst
- Cloud Support Engineer
- Business Analyst
- AI Developer
Media and Design
- Graphic Designer
- Multimedia Designer
- Digital Content Creator
- Journalist
- Media Officer
Marketing and Communications
- Marketing Coordinator
- Communications Officer
- Public Relations Officer
- Event Coordinator
- Digital Marketing Specialist
Completion of the internship provides valuable workplace experience but does not guarantee permanent employment.
Application Tips
To improve your application:
- Prepare an updated professional CV.
- Ensure your qualification certificate or completion letter is included.
- Obtain the required learner affidavit before applying.
- Double-check that all supporting documents are attached.
- Submit your application well before the closing date.
Where to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official CSIR Careers Portal.
Applicants should search for:
CSIR/MICT SETA Internship (One-Year Contract)
For enquiries:
- Telephone: 012 841 4774
- Email: Recruitmentinfo@csir.co.za
Closing Date
Closing Date: Not Specified
CSIR has not published a closing date for this internship. Interested graduates are encouraged to apply as early as possible, as the advertisement may be withdrawn once suitable candidates have been identified.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
South African citizens who have completed a National Diploma, Degree, or equivalent qualification in one of the listed fields.
2. How long is the internship?
The internship runs for 12 months.
3. Where is the internship located?
The programme is based at the CSIR Scientia Campus in Pretoria with a hybrid work model.
4. Which qualifications are accepted?
Qualifications in IT, Computer Science, Software Engineering, AI, Marketing, Journalism, Graphic Design, Communications, Public Relations, Business Analysis, Cloud Computing, and other related disciplines.
5. What documents are required?
Applicants must submit:
- South African ID
- Updated CV
- Qualification certificate or completion letter
- Learner affidavit confirming they are not funded by another SETA programme
6. Will all applicants receive feedback?
No. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
7. Is there a closing date?
No official closing date has been announced. Early applications are recommended.
Editorial Policy
This article has been independently prepared using information published by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) regarding the CSIR/MICT SETA Internship Programme. It is intended for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by CSIR or MICT SETA. Applicants should verify programme details, eligibility requirements, and application procedures through the official CSIR Careers Portal before applying.
Sources and References
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) – CSIR/MICT SETA Internship Vacancy
- Media, Information and Communication Technologies SETA (MICT SETA)
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
- National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
- CSIR Careers Portal
