Graduates are struggling to find work because they lack real‑world experience. The SACE Internship Programme 2026 offers an 18‑month placement and a monthly stipend, so you can start building a career right now.
What is the SACE Internship Programme 2026?
The South African Council for Educators (SACE) is offering a paid internship that lasts 18 months. It is designed for unemployed graduates or students who need practical training to finish their qualifications. Interns sign a contract and work in an office environment, linking what they studied with what employers expect.
Who can apply?
- South African citizens
- 35 years old or younger
- Currently unemployed
- Never taken part in an internship before
- Have a Matric certificate
- Hold the required qualification for the chosen position (see details below)
- Willing to sign an 18‑month internship contract
What you will gain
- Monthly stipend (R5 000 – R7 500) depending on your NQF level
- Hands‑on experience in a public‑sector environment
- Professional references and a stronger CV
- Confidence in administrative, financial, ICT, legal, HR and other public‑service functions
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the SACE website and download the SACE Employment Application Form from the Careers/Opportunities page.
- Complete the form in full. Write the exact reference number of the position you want.
- Prepare a clear, one‑page CV that matches the qualification listed for that reference.
- Gather certified copies of your ID, qualifications and, if needed, academic records. All certifications must be dated within the last six months.
- Compose an email to recruitment@sace.org.za. Use the reference number as the subject line (e.g., “COMMS001”). Attach the completed form, CV and all certified documents.
- If you prefer, you may hand‑deliver or courier the same documents to the Human Resource Unit, Block 1, 240 Crossway Park Offices, Corner Jean Avenue, Centurion.
- Submit before the closing date: 07 July 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Available internship positions
Communication Intern – COMMS001
Location: SACE Head Office, Centurion
Posts: 1
Required qualification: Bachelor’s (NQF 7) in Digital Communications, Media Studies, Communications, Journalism or Public Relations.
Registration Intern – REG/LIM002, REG/KZN002, REG/EC002, REG/FS002, REG/HO002
Locations: Limpopo, KwaZulu‑Natal, Eastern Cape, Free State and Head Office
Posts: 2 per location
Required qualification: NQF 6 diploma or degree in Administration, Management Assistant, Office Management or Public Management.
Legal and Ethics Intern – LEGAL0003
Location: SACE Head Office, Centurion
Posts: 2
Required qualification: LLB or BA Law (NQF 8) or Diploma in Paralegal Studies (NQF 7).
Finance Intern – FINREV0004 / BOOK0005
Location: SACE Head Office, Centurion
Posts: 1 each
Required qualification: Diploma or Degree in Accounting (NQF 6 or 7).
Finance Supply Chain Management Intern – FINSCM0004
Location: SACE Head Office, Centurion
Posts: 2
Required qualification: Diploma in Supply Chain Management or Logistics (NQF 6).
Human Resource Intern – HR0005
Location: SACE Head Office, Centurion
Posts: 1
Required qualification: Diploma or Degree in HR Management, Labour Relations or Training & Development (NQF 6/7).
PMERR Intern – PMERR0006
Location: SACE Head Office, Centurion
Posts: 2
Required qualification: Bachelor’s or Diploma in Development Studies, Development Planning, Public Administration, Operations Management or Public Management (NQF 6/7).
Internal Audit Intern – INTAUD007
Location: SACE Head Office, Centurion
Posts: 1
Required qualification: Diploma or Degree in Internal Auditing or Risk Management (NQF 6/7).
ICT Intern – ICT008
Location: SACE Head Office, Centurion
Posts: 1
Required qualification: Diploma or Degree in Information Technology (NQF 6/7).
Professional Development Intern – PD009
Location: SACE Head Office, Centurion
Posts: 2
Required qualification: NQF 6 qualification in Administration, Management Assistant, Office Management or Public Management.
Tips to improve your chances
- Apply only for the position that matches your exact qualification.
- Use the correct reference number in the email subject and on the application form.
- Make sure the CV and the form contain the same information.
- Check that every certified document is dated within the last six months.
- Proofread for spelling or formatting errors before sending.
- Submit well before the 07 July deadline to avoid last‑minute issues.
What happens after you apply?
SACE will only contact candidates who are shortlisted. If you have not heard back within three months of the closing date, you can assume the application was unsuccessful. For any questions, call Mary Chauke (012 663 0429) or Motsatsi Makgoba (012 663 0423).
Final thoughts – next steps
The SACE Internship Programme 2026 provides a realistic route into the public‑sector workforce. With up to R7 500 a month and exposure to several professional fields, it can bridge the gap between your degree and a permanent job. If you meet the eligibility criteria, download the application form, gather your certified documents and submit your application before 07 July 2026. Take the first step toward gaining the experience you need.