The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), an agency of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), is proud to announce the launch of its Graduate Internship Programme in Innovation and Creativity. With five available posts based at its Sunnyside Office in Pretoria, this initiative aims to empower young South African graduates with vital workplace experience, preparing them for impactful careers in law, governance, and public service.
Programme Overview
This prestigious internship is specifically designed for graduates holding the following qualifications:
- BA Law / BCom Law (NQF Level 7)
- LLB (NQF Level 8)
Interns will benefit from 24 months of structured learning and professional exposure, gaining practical insights into corporate governance, intellectual property management, and legal compliance within a national institution.
In return for their contribution, successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend of R12,000, offering both financial support and recognition of their commitment to public service.
The Purpose of Internships
In December 2002, the Cabinet formally recognised internships as a cornerstone of South Africa’s graduate development strategy. Internships bridge the gap between academic knowledge and workplace application, allowing young professionals to:
- Develop practical work skills.
- Apply their academic qualifications in a real-world environment.
- Position themselves competitively in the job market.
This programme is therefore more than just a placement. It is a gateway for unemployed graduates to gain confidence, build networks, and prepare for future roles within the legal and corporate sectors.
Who Can Apply?
The CIPC Graduate Internship Programme is open to unemployed South African graduates who meet the following criteria:
- Completed a relevant degree or diploma at a recognised higher education institution.
- Have not yet been exposed to formal work experience.
- Have never participated in an internship programme previously.
- Between the ages of 18 and 35 years old.
Applicants must also be committed to contributing to innovation, creativity, and professional excellence during their 24-month placement.
Application Requirements
To ensure your application is considered, you must prepare and upload the following documents:
- A comprehensive and updated CV.
- A certified copy of your South African ID document.
- An official academic transcript aligned with your qualification.
It is crucial that each document is uploaded correctly to the designated section. Failure to do so will result in automatic disqualification. Additionally, successful candidates will be required to sign a Graduate Internship Programme Agreement with the CIPC before commencing their placement.
How to Apply
Please ensure you have uploaded and attached an updated copy of your CV, ID, Academic transcript and qualification (academic transcript and qualification must be uploaded as one document under “supporting documents” section) when you submit your application.
Please ensure you upload each document to the correct section. Failure to upload the required documents or failure to upload documents to the correct sections will automatically disqualify the applicant.
APPLY FOR THE CIPC INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY GRADUATE INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME HERE
Why Join the CIPC?
The CIPC is at the forefront of business and intellectual property regulation in South Africa. By joining this programme, interns will gain exposure to:
- Corporate law and compliance.
- Intellectual property rights management.
- Innovative practices that shape the future of entrepreneurship in South Africa.
This is a rare opportunity for graduates to immerse themselves in a professional environment where law, business, and innovation intersect.
Our Conclusion:
With only five positions available, this internship represents a highly competitive and life-changing chance for ambitious graduates. If you are passionate about law, innovation, and contributing to South Africa’s economic development, the CIPC Graduate Internship Programme in Pretoria could be your perfect career springboard.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to gain experience, develop skills, and secure your professional future.
CLOSING DATE: 25 AUGUST 2025
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