HWSETA Graduate Internship Programme 2026 Now Open

South African graduates with a strong interest in research, data analysis, development planning, and evidence-based decision-making now have an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on public-sector experience through the HWSETA Graduate Internship Programme 2026.

The Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) is inviting suitably qualified graduates to apply for two 12-month paid graduate internships based in Bedfordview, Johannesburg (Eastern Suburbs):

Research Intern
Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Intern

Both roles offer a competitive stipend of R146 311,80 per annum and are ideal for graduates seeking to build a long-term career in research, policy, development, statistics, monitoring, and evaluation within the health and social development ecosystem.

Importantly, graduates with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply, reinforcing HWSETA’s commitment to inclusive skills development.

Quick Overview

Organisation: Health and Welfare SETA (HWSETA)
Programme: Graduate Internship Programme 2026
Internship Fields:

Research Intern
Monitoring and Evaluation Intern

Location: Bedfordview, Johannesburg (Eastern Suburbs), Gauteng
Duration: 12 months (fixed-term internship)
Stipend: R146 311,80 per annum
Minimum Qualification: Honours Degree
Fields of Study:

Development Studies
Population Studies
Demography
Statistics (or closely related disciplines)

Target Group: South African graduates
Equity Statement: Interns with disabilities are encouraged to apply

Internship 1: Research Intern – What You Will Be Doing

The Research Intern will provide research assistance to researchers and research projects within HWSETA. This role is ideal for graduates who enjoy data, analysis, writing, and policy-oriented work.

Key Responsibilities (Typical Exposure)

While exact duties may vary, interns can expect exposure to:

Assisting with sector research projects
Collecting, cleaning, and analysing quantitative and qualitative data
Conducting literature reviews and policy scans
Supporting the development of research reports and sector skills plans
Assisting with data interpretation and presentation
Supporting stakeholder research engagements and consultations
Maintaining research databases and documentation

This role builds technical research competence while also strengthening professional writing and analytical skills.

Internship 2: Monitoring and Evaluation Intern – What You Will Be Doing

The Monitoring and Evaluation Intern supports the assessment of programme performance, outcomes, and impact across HWSETA-funded initiatives.

This role is particularly valuable for graduates interested in M&E, development economics, public policy, or donor-funded programme management.

Key Responsibilities (Typical Exposure)

Supporting monitoring and evaluation frameworks
Assisting with performance indicator tracking
Analysing programme data and outcomes
Supporting the preparation of M&E reports
Verifying evidence submitted by funded projects
Assisting with data quality checks and reporting dashboards
Supporting continuous improvement through evidence-based insights

This role develops practical M&E skills that are in high demand across government, NGOs, and international organisations.

Minimum Requirements and Eligibility

To be considered for either internship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Educational Qualifications

Honours Degree in one of the following (or closely related fields):
- Development Studies
- Population Studies
- Demography
- Statistics

Additional Advantageous Attributes

Strong analytical and research skills
Good written and verbal communication
Basic understanding of research methods or statistics
Ability to work with data (Excel, SPSS, STATA, or similar tools is advantageous)
Interest in public sector development and skills planning

Equity Considerations

Interns with disabilities are encouraged to apply
HWSETA supports inclusive participation in skills development initiatives

Location and Work Environment

Workplace: HWSETA offices
Base Location: Bedfordview, Johannesburg (Eastern Suburbs)
Work Exposure: Professional office environment with experienced researchers, analysts, and programme managers

This is an on-site internship, providing daily exposure to structured professional work.

How to Apply

APPLY FOR THE HWSETA GRADUATE INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME 2026 HERE

How Edupstairs Helps You Prepare

At Edupstairs, we don’t just post opportunities—we help you win them.

Recommended Tools:

Edupstairs Advice to Applicants

This opportunity is ideal if you:

Are serious about building a research-driven career
Want public-sector exposure with long-term value
Plan to pursue postgraduate studies or policy-related work

Before applying:

Update your CV with research projects and methodologies
Highlight any data analysis, surveys, or academic research
Prepare a concise motivation explaining why research or M&E interests you

If you are unsure about your readiness, use Edupstairs tools such as:

CV Builder
Internship Readiness Checklist
Interview Preparation Guide

Career Growth Path After Completing the Internship

After completing the HWSETA Graduate Internship Programme, interns may progress into roles such as:

Research Assistant / Research Officer
Monitoring and Evaluation Officer
Policy Analyst
Programme Officer (Development or Health Sector)
Labour Market Analyst
Junior Statistician or Data Analyst
Postgraduate Researcher (Master’s or PhD level)

Many former SETA interns successfully transition into permanent public-sector roles, NGOs, universities, or consulting firms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this internship paid?

Yes. The stipend is R146 311,80 per annum for the 12-month duration.

Is this open to diploma holders?

No. A completed Honours Degree is required.

Are persons with disabilities allowed to apply?

Yes. Interns with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Is this internship renewable or permanent?

No. It is a fixed-term 12-month internship. However, the experience significantly improves employability.

Do I need prior work experience?

No formal work experience is required, but research exposure is advantageous.

Where will I be based?

Successful candidates will be based in Bedfordview, Johannesburg (Eastern Suburbs).

CLOSING DATE: 31 JANUARY 2026

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Disclaimers

Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection
HWSETA reserves the right to verify qualifications
Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted
Internship placement does not guarantee permanent employment

Applicants are advised to submit accurate and truthful information.

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Edupstairs TrustScore™

100 /100

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OrganisationHealth and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA)

SourceSETA/Government site

Open source link

Apply viaOnline portal

ReferenceJHB000214 & JHB000215

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