CSIR and MICT SETA Launch One-Year Internship Programme for South African Graduates
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 2026 Internship Programme.
This one-year internship is designed to help graduates gain valuable workplace experience under the guidance of experienced professionals while improving their employability in South Africa’s science, engineering, technology, media, and communications sectors.
Successful candidates will work in a professional research environment where they can apply their academic knowledge to real projects while developing technical and workplace skills.
The internship is based at the CSIR Scientia Campus in Pretoria and follows a hybrid working model.
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 | Temporary |
| Location | Scientia, Pretoria |
| Work Model | Hybrid |
| Minimum Qualification | National Diploma, Degree or Equivalent |
| Target Group | South African Graduates |
About the CSIR
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is one of South Africa’s leading scientific research organisations. It conducts research, develops innovative technologies, and supports industrial development through science, engineering, and technology.
Working with government, industry, and academic institutions, the CSIR contributes to economic growth and technological advancement while creating opportunities for young professionals to develop critical workplace skills.
About the Internship Programme
The CSIR and MICT SETA Internship Programme provides graduates with structured workplace learning in a professional research environment.
Interns will receive mentorship from experienced professionals while gaining practical experience that complements their academic qualifications.
The programme is aimed at helping graduates transition from higher education into the workplace by developing industry-relevant technical and professional skills.
Fields of Study Accepted
Graduates with qualifications in the following fields are encouraged to apply:
Information and Technology
- 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
Creative and Digital Fields
- Multimedia Design
- Visual Communication
- Graphic Design
- Digital Media
Marketing and Communications
- Marketing
- Event Management
- Corporate Events
- Marketing Communications
- Communication
- Public Relations
- Journalism
- Media Studies
Internship Responsibilities
Depending on the department, interns may:
- Assist with research and innovation projects.
- Support technology development initiatives.
- Participate in software and systems projects.
- Contribute to ICT infrastructure activities.
- Assist with marketing and communications campaigns.
- Support corporate events.
- Develop digital and multimedia content.
- Participate in business analysis activities.
- Assist with administrative tasks.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Have completed a National Diploma, Degree, or equivalent qualification.
- Hold a qualification in one of the advertised study fields.
- Be available for the full internship period.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Qualification certificate or official completion letter.
- Learner Affidavit confirming that they are not enrolled in any MICT SETA-funded or other SETA-funded programme.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Skills You Will Gain
Participants may develop practical skills in:
- Scientific Research
- Software Development
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cloud Computing
- Business Analysis
- ICT Support
- Graphic Design
- Digital Media
- Marketing
- Communications
- Public Relations
- Event Coordination
- Professional Communication
- Project Collaboration
Why Apply?
The internship provides graduates with the opportunity to:
- Gain one year of practical workplace experience.
- Work alongside experienced researchers and professionals.
- Build industry-relevant technical skills.
- Improve employability.
- Strengthen professional networks.
- Contribute to innovative research and technology projects.
- Develop workplace confidence.
Career Opportunities After the Internship
The practical experience gained through the programme can prepare graduates for careers such as:
Information Technology
- Software Developer
- Systems Analyst
- IT Support Specialist
- Cloud Engineer
- ICT Administrator
Engineering and Technology
- Computer Engineer
- Artificial Intelligence Developer
- Business Systems Analyst
Creative and Communications
- Graphic Designer
- Multimedia Designer
- Marketing Coordinator
- Communications Officer
- Public Relations Officer
- Journalist
- Digital Media Specialist
Completion of the internship does not guarantee permanent employment but provides valuable workplace experience recognised by employers.
Application Tips
To improve your application:
- Update your CV with your latest qualifications and achievements.
- Ensure all required documents are attached.
- Obtain the required learner affidavit before applying.
- Check that your qualification matches one of the listed study fields.
- Submit a complete application before the closing date.
Where to Apply
Applications should be submitted through the official CSIR Careers Portal.
Applicants must upload all required supporting documents as part of the online application.
For enquiries:
Telephone: 012 841 4774
Email: Recruitmentinfo@csir.co.za
Closing Date
Closing Date: Refer to the official CSIR vacancy advertisement for the latest application deadline.
Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
South African citizens with a completed National Diploma, Degree, or equivalent qualification in one of the advertised fields.
2. How long is the internship?
The internship runs for 12 months.
3. Where is the internship based?
The programme is based at the CSIR Scientia Campus in Pretoria with a hybrid working arrangement.
4. Which qualifications are accepted?
Qualifications in:
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence
- Informatics
- ICT Infrastructure
- Graphic Design
- Multimedia Design
- Marketing
- Communications
- Journalism
- Public Relations
- Media Studies
- Business Analysis
- Related fields
5. Do I need previous work experience?
No previous work experience is mentioned as a requirement.
6. Can I apply if I am already enrolled in another SETA programme?
No. Applicants must submit an affidavit confirming they are not participating in another SETA-funded programme.
7. Will all applicants receive feedback?
No. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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 to provide accurate information to graduates seeking internship opportunities. This publication is not affiliated with or endorsed by CSIR or MICT SETA. Applicants should verify all programme details and application requirements through the official CSIR Careers Portal before submitting an application.
Sources and References
- CSIR Careers – CSIR/MICT SETA Internship Programme
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
- Media, Information and Communication Technologies SETA (MICT SETA)
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
- National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
