In an inspiring move to bridge the gap between academic learning and workplace readiness, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has partnered with the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (MerSETA) to launch the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme. This powerful collaboration aims to equip young South African graduates and students with practical workplace experience in science, engineering, and technology-based industries — crucial sectors for the country’s future economic development.
THE VISION BEHIND THE WIL PROGRAMME:
The CSIR, South Africa’s leading scientific research and development organization, has always been committed to fostering innovation and human capital development. By joining forces with MerSETA — the SETA responsible for skills development in manufacturing and engineering-related fields — the WIL programme is designed to offer real-world exposure and enhance the employability of students and graduates from TVET colleges and universities.
This programme not only supports national development strategies, such as the National Development Plan (NDP), but also aligns with government efforts to address youth unemployment by providing structured work experience aligned to a student’s field of study.
WHO CAN APPLY?
This programme is based in Pretoria and covers various fields of science, engineering and technology (SET) including:
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Computer science
- Chemistry
- Data science
- Industrial engineering
- Physics
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Chemical Technology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Bio-Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Software Engineering
REQUIREMENTS:
- A South African citizen;
- Full-time enrolment at a University of Technology in any of the above study areas;
- Must have passed all courses and left with practical experience to complete their National Diploma.
WHAT PARTICIPANTS GAIN:
Successful candidates will be placed within CSIR’s various departments and will work alongside top researchers, engineers, and technicians. Over the duration of the programme, participants will:
- Gain hands-on experience in their respective fields
- Be exposed to advanced laboratories, tools, and methodologies
- Receive mentorship and performance evaluation
- Earn a monthly stipend, funded by MerSETA, to support living expenses during the training period
This holistic development approach empowers learners with both technical skills and professional workplace behavior, helping them become competent and confident professionals.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Application should include the following documents:
- A copy of the identity document;
- A complete resume;
- Latest academic transcript;
- Proof of registration
- Letter confirming the need for practical training.
APPLY FOR THE CSIR / MERSETA WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING (WIL) PROGRAMME FOR 2025 HERE
The CSIR–MerSETA WIL Programme is more than just a skills development initiative — it is a stepping stone into the future of South Africa’s innovation landscape. By investing in youth and creating opportunities for real-world learning, this partnership is helping build a capable, tech-savvy, and resilient workforce ready to lead South Africa into the fourth industrial revolution.
CLOSING DATE: 17 JUNE 2025
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