Introduction: Why the CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026 Matters
The CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026 represents one of South Africa’s most credible graduate development opportunities for unemployed youth who have completed qualifications through the University of South Africa (UNISA). Designed as a 12-month structured internship, this programme aims to bridge the gap between academic achievement and real-world work experience — a challenge faced by graduates not only in South Africa, but globally.
With youth unemployment remaining a pressing concern and employers increasingly demanding workplace exposure, the UNISA Internship Programme has become a strategic entry point for graduates seeking to build practical skills within a respected public institution.
This guide provides everything you need to know about the CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026, including eligibility rules, available positions, locations, required qualifications, application steps, and expert tips to improve your chances of selection.
What Is the CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026?
The CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026 is a 12-month fixed-term internship offered by UNISA to unemployed South African graduates who completed a UNISA qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher.
The programme is intentionally designed for:
- First-time job seekers
- Graduates with no prior work experience
- Youth aged 18–35
- Applicants seeking exposure in public administration, finance, agriculture, and academic support environments
Unlike many internships that quietly exclude inexperienced graduates, UNISA explicitly prioritizes applicants without previous employment, making this programme highly competitive and highly sought-after.
About the University of South Africa (UNISA)
UNISA is Africa’s largest open-distance learning institution and one of the largest universities globally, with students across more than 130 countries. Its qualifications are widely recognized in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and across the European Union.
According to UNISA’s official profile:
- Over 300,000 enrolled students
- Longstanding reputation in public administration and governance
- Strong alignment with South Africa’s National Development Plan
Official UNISA information can be found on the university’s website:
External Link: https://www.unisa.ac.za
Key Objectives of the UNISA Internship Programme
The CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026 aligns with national and institutional objectives, including:
- Reducing graduate unemployment
- Providing structured workplace exposure
- Supporting employment equity and inclusion
- Developing administrative and technical skills
- Preparing graduates for the public and private sectors
This is not a casual internship. It is a developmental programme with accountability, supervision, and skills transfer built into its structure.
Who Can Apply for the CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026?
To qualify, applicants must meet all the criteria below.
Citizenship and Employment Status
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be unemployed at the time of application
Educational Requirements
- Must have completed a UNISA qualification
- Qualification must be NQF Level 6 or above
- Applicants must be UNISA graduates in the required field of study
Age Requirement
- Applicants must be 35 years old or younger
Work Experience Rules
- Applicants must have no prior work experience
- Applicants previously appointed at UNISA or any other organization will not be considered
These requirements are strictly enforced. Failure to meet any one of them results in automatic disqualification.
Inclusion and Employment Equity
UNISA strongly supports diversity and inclusion. In line with its Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to:
- Persons living with disabilities
- Applicants from underrepresented backgrounds
This commitment reflects UNISA’s values of universal access, fairness, and transformation, making the CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026 one of the most inclusive graduate programmes in the country.
Internship Duration and Structure
Duration
- Fixed 12-month contract
- No extensions beyond the internship period
Structure
Interns are placed within specific departments and receive:
- On-the-job training
- Professional supervision
- Exposure to operational systems
- Workplace ethics and compliance training
Upon completion, interns leave with verifiable work experience, which significantly improves employability.
Available Internship Positions and Locations (2026)
Below are the officially advertised internship opportunities under the CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026.
Accounting Sciences Internship – Eastern Cape Region
Reference Number: REF/ECR/DSAR/NM
Department: Deputy Registrar: Student Administration and Registration
Region: Eastern Cape
Locations and Positions
- East London – 1 position
- Gqeberha – 1 position
- Mthatha – 1 position
Minimum Qualification
- Diploma or Degree in Accounting Sciences
Contact Person
- Nthabiseng Mpako
- Tel: 012 429 2588
Administrative Management Internship – Eastern Cape Region
Reference Number: REF/ECR/DSAR-1/NM
Department: Deputy Registrar: Student Administration and System Integration
Region: Eastern Cape
Locations and Positions
- East London – 2 positions
- Gqeberha – 2 positions
- Mthatha – 2 positions
Minimum Qualification
- Diploma or Degree in:
- Administrative Management
- Office Management
- Public Administration
Contact Person
- Nthabiseng Mpako
- Tel: 012 429 2588
Agriculture and Horticulture Internship – Florida Campus
Reference Number: REF/CAES/LHC/DM
Department: Laboratory and Horticulture Centre (CAES)
Campus: Florida Campus
Number of Positions
- 10 internship positions
Minimum Qualification
- Undergraduate qualification in Agriculture or Horticulture
Contact Person
- Delphia Molisalife
- Tel: 012 429 4983
Understanding NQF Levels
For clarity:
- NQF Level 6: Diploma or Advanced Certificate
- NQF Level 7: Bachelor’s Degree
- NQF Level 8+: Honours, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s
As long as the qualification was completed at UNISA, it meets the academic requirement.
Official NQF framework information:
External Link: https://www.saqa.org.za
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must prepare the following:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Updated CV
- Certified copies of UNISA qualification(s)
- Academic transcript
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
- Correct UNISA student number
- Correct reference number
Incomplete or incorrect applications are automatically rejected.
How to Apply for the CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026
- Visit the official UNISA vacancies or internship portal
- Select the internship position you qualify for
- Complete the online application form
- Enter the correct reference number
- Enter your UNISA student number accurately
- Upload all required documents
- Submit your application
Applications for multiple positions must be submitted separately.
For ongoing internship updates and similar opportunities, visit:
Internal Link: https://www.linkinn.co.za
Common Mistakes That Lead to Disqualification
- Using the wrong reference number
- Applying without a completed qualification
- Uploading uncertified documents
- Applying for multiple positions in one application
- Including work experience when none is allowed
Attention to detail is critical.
Selection Process Explained
- Applications are screened for eligibility
- Shortlisting is based on requirements and equity targets
- Only shortlisted candidates are contacted
- Interviews may be virtual or in-person
- Successful candidates receive appointment letters
UNISA does not provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants.
Stipend and Career Value
While UNISA does not always publicly disclose stipend amounts, similar public-sector internships typically offer a monthly stipend aligned with national internship frameworks.
Beyond the stipend, interns gain:
- Recognized work experience
- Professional references
- Exposure to institutional systems
- Strong career credibility
Why This Internship Is Valuable Internationally
Graduates from the CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026 gain experience that is relevant beyond South Africa. International employers value:
- Public-sector exposure
- Administrative systems knowledge
- Compliance and governance experience
- Ability to work independently
This makes UNISA internship experience attractive in markets such as the US, UK, and Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026 open to non-UNISA graduates?
No. Only graduates who completed their qualification at UNISA are eligible.
Can I apply if I am currently studying?
No. You must have completed your qualification.
Is prior work experience allowed?
No. Applicants with previous employment or internships are not considered.
Can I apply for more than one internship?
Yes, but each application must be submitted separately.
Is there an age limit?
Yes. Applicants must be 35 years old or younger.
Are people with disabilities encouraged to apply?
Yes. Preference is given in line with UNISA’s Employment Equity Plan.
Is the internship permanent?
No. It is a fixed 12-month internship.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Apply Early
The CALL FOR UNISA INTERNSHIPS Programme 2026 is more than an internship — it is a strategic career launchpad for unemployed graduates with no experience. With limited positions and high demand, early and accurate applications stand the best chance.
For more verified internship opportunities, learnerships, and bursaries, regularly visit:
Internal Link: https://www.linkinn.co.za