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The South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) is inviting unemployed graduates to apply for its 2026 Graphic Design Internship. This in-depth guide covers the stipend, duties, eligibility requirements, closing date, and application process for candidates seeking practical workplace experience.
Introduction
The South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) has opened its Graphic Design Internship Programme for 2026, offering an important opportunity for unemployed graduates to gain professional, real-world experience in the communications field. The internship is based in Pretoria, Gauteng, and applications close on 30 November 2025.
This programme forms part of SACSSP’s commitment to strengthening its digital communication and visual identity while empowering young creatives entering the labour market. For many graduates, breaking into the design industry can be challenging due to limited experience requirements. This internship bridges that gap, providing hands-on training, workplace exposure, and mentorship in a public-sector environment.
Overview of the SACSSP Graphic Design Internship
The internship runs for six months, offering a structured programme focused on design, branding, digital content creation, and web support. The successful applicant will work under SACSSP’s Communications Division, producing visual content for digital and print platforms.
Key Internship Details
- Internship Duration: 6 months
- Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
- Stipend: R6000 per month
- Start Date: 2026 Intake
- Closing Date: 30 November 2025
- Department: Communications Division
This internship is specifically designed to help graduates transition from academic work to professional creative environments.
What the Internship Offers
The Graphic Design Internship provides a comprehensive experience covering:
1. Practical Design Work
Interns produce visual materials used in SACSSP’s communication campaigns, newsletters, social media, and official documents.
2. Mentorship and Professional Growth
The programme offers direct guidance from communication practitioners, enabling graduates to refine their design skills and adapt to organisational standards.
3. Exposure to Public Sector Communications
Interns learn how design contributes to public awareness, stakeholder engagement, and brand credibility.
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4. Portfolio Development
By the end of the programme, interns will have a strengthened portfolio showcasing actual organisational work.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2026 SACSSP Graphic Design Internship, applicants must meet specific academic and technical criteria.
Educational Requirements
Applicants must hold one of the following qualifications:
- National Diploma in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or related disciplines
- Bachelor’s Degree in any design-related field
Technical Requirements
Candidates must be proficient in:
- Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
- Canva
- Knowledge of website management (WordPress, CMS, HTML/CSS)
- Basic social media design principles
These skills are critical to delivering high-quality work aligned with SACSSP brand standards.
Key Performance Areas (Duties)
The selected intern will be involved in the following core responsibilities:
1. Creating Visual Materials
Designing content for digital platforms, publications, presentations, posters, and social media.
2. Maintaining Brand Consistency
Ensuring alignment with SACSSP branding guidelines in all visual communication.
3. Website Support
Assisting with minor website updates, uploading content, and ensuring design consistency across online platforms.
4. Asset Organisation
Keeping a well-organised digital library of design files, templates, and resources.
5. Team Collaboration
Contributing to communications projects, brainstorming creative ideas, and supporting team initiatives.
These responsibilities help interns build real industry experience while supporting SACSSP’s public communication efforts.
Required Competencies
SACSSP seeks candidates who demonstrate:
- Creativity and strong visual communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Ability to manage time and meet deadlines
- Proficiency with design software
- Strong teamwork and communication abilities
- Adaptability and willingness to learn
- Advanced Microsoft Office skills
These competencies reflect the realities of working in a communications team under tight timelines and structured workflows.
How to Apply for the SACSSP 2026 Graphic Design Internship
Candidates must submit a complete application package. Incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Required Documents
Applications must include the following:
- Completed Application Form 1
(Download at www.sacssp.co.za) - Detailed CV
- Originally certified copy of your ID
- Originally certified copies of academic qualifications
- Contact details of three traceable referees
(Referees must not be from SACSSP)
Certification Requirements
All certified documents must be stamped within the last six months.
Where to Submit Your Application
Quote the reference number: REF: GD/2025/11/05
Physical Submission
HR Office – SACSSP
37 Annie Botha Avenue
Riviera
Pretoria
0084
Postal Submission
Private Bag X12
Gezina
Pretoria
0031
Email Submission
Contact for Enquiries
For more information, applicants may contact:
Mrs. Albertinah Thabethe
HR Officer
Tel: 012 356 8322
Why This Internship Matters for Graduates
This internship provides a strategic entry point into a highly competitive creative industry. It helps graduates:
- Gain formal workplace experience
- Build a professional portfolio
- Understand organisational branding
- Work with structured communication systems
- Improve their readiness for full-time employment
With many employers requiring experience even for junior roles, opportunities like this offer essential exposure and skill development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the SACSSP Graphic Design Internship?
Unemployed South African graduates with a formal qualification in Graphic Design or related fields.
2. When is the closing date for applications?
30 November 2025.
3. Is the internship full-time?
Yes, interns are expected to work full-time for the six-month duration.
4. What is the stipend amount?
Interns receive R6000 per month.
5. Can applications be submitted via email?
Yes, email submissions are accepted at [email protected].
6. Do I need prior work experience?
No. This programme is specifically designed for graduates entering the workforce.
7. Where is the internship located?
At the SACSSP offices in Pretoria, Gauteng.
Conclusion
The SACSSP 2026 Graphic Design Internship offers a valuable stepping stone for graduates eager to build a career in the creative and communications sector. With practical training, structured mentorship, and exposure to professional design environments, this programme can significantly boost a graduate’s employability and confidence.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their documents early and ensure all certification requirements are met. This opportunity has the potential to open doors to long-term career growth in both public and private sectors.
