SASSA 2026 TVET Learnership & Internship Programmes for Unemployed Youth

SASSA 2026 TVET Learnership opportunities are now open for applications, providing unemployed and underemployed South African youth with structured workplace experience through the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme and Head Office Internship Programme. These programmes offer practical skills development, mentorship, and all-inclusive monthly stipends, helping young people transition from education or graduation into meaningful public sector roles.

SASSA 2026 TVET Learnership & Internship Programmes-overview

These programmes are carefully designed to help young South Africans transition from education or graduation into the workplace. By providing structured, supervised, and meaningful work exposure within a national government agency, SASSA continues to play a pivotal role in youth development, public sector capacity building, and economic empowerment.

Whether you are a TVET student needing practical experience to complete your qualification, or a graduate struggling to break into the job market, these programmes provide a credible, structured, and professional pathway into the world of work.

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Overview of SASSA 2026 Learnership and Internship Programmes

Organisation: South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)

Programme Types:

• TVET Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme
• Head Office Internship Programme

Programme Duration:

• WIL: 6 to 18 months, depending on the TVET qualification requirements
• Internship: 24-month fixed-term contract

Monthly Stipends:

• WIL: R5 639,75 (all-inclusive)
• Internship: R7 860,50 (all-inclusive)

Placement Locations:

• WIL: Nationwide SASSA offices
• Internships: SASSA Head Office

Application Method: Email applications only
Closing Date: 14 February 2026

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Understanding the SASSA TVET Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme

What is Work Integrated Learning (WIL)?

Work Integrated Learning is a formal, compulsory, and structured part of many TVET College qualifications. Unlike casual employment or voluntary work, WIL placements require learners to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world work environment while completing logbooks and meeting the specific learning outcomes set by their educational institution.

Successful WIL candidates will complete between 6 and 18 months of structured practical workplace exposure, depending on their qualification requirements. This ensures that learners not only graduate with academic credentials but also gain verified workplace experience, improving their employability and readiness for the job market.

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TVET WIL Placement Areas and Fields

SASSA has limited but targeted WIL placements in the following functional areas:

1. Corporate Services (Human Resources Management)
   • Qualification: National Certificate or statement of results in HR Management
   • Posts available: 1
2. Marketing and Communication
   • Qualification: National Certificate or statement of results in Public Relations, Communication, Media Studies, Multimedia Journalism, or Communication and Marketing
   • Posts available: 1
3. Facilities and Auxiliary Support Services
   • Qualification: National Certificate or statement of results in Public Management or Facilities and Auxiliary Support Services
   • Posts available: 1
4. Finance
   • Qualification: National Certificate or statement of results in Financial Accounting
   • Posts available: 2
5. Grant Administration
   • Qualification: National Certificate or statement of results in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering Management Services, or Financial Accounting
   • Posts available: 3

These placements provide learners with practical, hands-on experience directly aligned with their field of study, within a structured, professional, and nationally recognised public sector environment.

USEFUL LINKS

• Bursaries & Funding
• SETA Opportunities
• Learnerships & Internships

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TVET WIL Stipend and Value

Learners selected for the WIL programme will receive a monthly all-inclusive stipend of R5 639,75, which supports transportation, meals, and other work-related expenses.

Beyond financial support, the WIL programme offers:

• Completion of qualification requirements
• Credible public sector workplace experience
• Professional discipline and workplace ethics
• Enhanced employability after graduation

For many learners, WIL represents the first formal step into a professional environment, bridging the gap between education and employment.

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SASSA Head Office Internship Programme for Graduates

In addition to the TVET placements, SASSA offers 24-month Head Office internships for graduates and diploma holders who require structured workplace exposure to develop professional competence and confidence.

Internship Fields Available

Graduates can apply for internships in the following areas:

1. Internal Audit – NQF Level 6–7 in Internal Audit
2. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) – including IT, Information Science, and Project Management
3. Fraud Management and Compliance – Forensic Investigation or Compliance Management
4. Legal Services – LLB qualification required

These internships are ideal for young graduates who have completed their studies but have struggled to secure employment due to lack of formal work experience.

Internship Stipend and Benefits

Successful interns will receive a monthly all-inclusive stipend of R7 860,50, which is competitive for public sector internships.

Interns gain:

• Structured mentoring and supervision
• Exposure to government systems, processes, and policies
• Practical workplace skills and professional experience
• Improved employability in government, state entities, or private sector roles

Many former SASSA interns have successfully transitioned into permanent employment in government or the private sector after completing the programme.

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General Eligibility Requirements

Citizenship and Qualifications:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must meet the specific qualification requirements for the chosen post

Age Requirement (Internships Only):

• 18–35 years old

Employment Equity Considerations:
SASSA considers employment equity targets, including:

• African males and females
• White males and females
• Persons living with disabilities (applications encouraged)

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Screening and Verification Process

All selected candidates undergo pre-employment screening, including:

• Verification of qualifications
• Credit (ITC) checks
• Criminal record checks
• Social media screening

Applicants with foreign qualifications must obtain evaluation from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) at their own cost. Starting this process early is strongly advised.

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How to Apply for the SASSA 2026 Programmes

Applications are only accepted via email. Applicants must submit:

• Fully completed and signed Z83 application form
• Updated and professional CV
• Certified copies of South African ID
• Certified copies of qualifications and academic records
• Clearly quote the correct reference number and position title in the email subject line

Application Email: justiceapplications@sassa.gov.za
Closing Date: 14 February 2026

Late or incomplete applications are unlikely to be considered.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Final Thoughts

The SASSA 2026 TVET Learnership and Internship Programmes provide structured, meaningful, and credible opportunities for unemployed youth to gain workplace experience in a national government institution.

For TVET learners and graduates seeking practical exposure, professional growth, and improved employability, these programmes offer a well-regulated pathway into the workforce.

Careful preparation, meeting all eligibility requirements, and submitting complete applications will greatly improve your chances of success.

Take action early and ensure all documents are clear, certified, and correctly submitted to secure your spot in this life-changing programme.

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✅ Pro Tip: Start your SAQA evaluation (if needed), complete the Z83 form accurately, and double-check all attachments before emailing.