The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) has officially opened applications for its IT Graduate Internship Programme 2026 — a paid, two-year internship designed to give unemployed graduates real workplace experience, not just theory.
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This isn’t a short, rushed programme. It’s a 24-month structured internship where you gain hands-on exposure in IT infrastructure, systems support, cybersecurity, cloud systems, databases, and enterprise projects — all within a national SETA operating under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
Quick Overview
| Internship Name | MQA IT Graduate Internship Programme 2026 |
| Organisation | Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) |
| Duration | 24 Months (2 Years) |
| Monthly Stipend | R9,306.18 |
| Field | Information Technology |
| Eligibility | South African citizens only |
| Target Group | Unemployed graduates (never participated in an internship) |
| Qualification Level | NQF 6 – NQF 7 (IT-related) |
| Closing Date | 26 January 2026 |
| Application Portal | www.cvspaces.co.za |
What You’ll Actually Be Doing
Here’s what the role looks like…
IT Infrastructure & Systems Support
- Assist with maintaining Microsoft Windows environments
- Support network administration, system capacity, and security
- Help ensure systems run smoothly and securely
Cloud & Database Exposure
- Assist with cloud technologies
- Support Microsoft SQL database administration
- Help maintain and monitor various information systems
IT Service Desk & End-User Support
- Provide 1st line IT support to staff
- Set up new laptops and workstations
- Assist with:
- Windows applications
- Email setup
- Antivirus software
- Password resets
- Application troubleshooting
Network, Printer & Remote Support
- Assist with network and printer troubleshooting
- Provide remote IT support to regional offices across South Africa
IT Security Exposure
- Support backup & recovery processes
- Assist with firewalls, antivirus, and vulnerability management
- Gain awareness of cybersecurity best practices
Software & Training
- Install software
- Assist with basic user training
- Help users understand systems better
Projects & Business Analysis
- Assist with business analysis
- Support project coordination for the IMIS / ERP Project
- Gain exposure to enterprise-level system implementation
General Administration
- Provide IT-related administrative support
- Assist with documentation and reporting
This mix makes the internship extremely valuable for long-term employability.
Minimum Requirements (Who Should Apply?)
To be eligible, you must meet all of the following:
Basic Requirements
- Grade 12 / Matric certificate
- South African citizen
- Currently unemployed
- Never participated in any internship programme before
Qualification Requirements
- National Diploma or equivalent NQF Level 6 in:
- Information Technology
- Information Systems
- Computer Science
- Related IT field
Advantage (Not Mandatory):
- Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent NQF Level 7 in IT or related field
Competencies & Skills MQA Is Looking For
MQA is not just looking for qualifications — they’re looking for potential.
Key competencies include:
- Good communication & interpersonal skills
- Ability to work under pressure
- Strong attention to detail
- Proactive attitude
- Basic understanding of education & training legislation
If you’re curious, willing to learn, and reliable — this internship is for you.
Stipend & Duration: Why This Matters
- Monthly stipend: R9,306.18
- Total duration: 24 months
That’s stable income for two full years while gaining real IT experience in a national institution — something many graduates struggle to find.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online only.
Required Documents
Prepare the following:
- Comprehensive CV
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified copy of valid South African ID
Application Portal – Apply via: www.cvspaces.co.za
Important:
- Closing date: 26 January 2026
- Late applications will not be considered
How Edupstairs Helps You Prepare
At Edupstairs, we don’t just post opportunities—we help you win them.
Recommended Tools:
- Edupstairs Internship / Learnership Eligibility Checker
- Edupstairs Financial Literacy Mini-School
- Grow your Confidence – 30-day Challenge
- SA Bursary Probability Checker
- Edupstairs Simple CV Builder Tool
- Edupstairs AI Cover Letter Generator Tool
- Edupstairs Learnership Application Checklist Tool
- Edupstairs Internship Application Checklist Tool
- Edupstairs Interview Q & A Coach Tool
- SA Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Quiz
- Edupstairs Learnership Stipend Calculator Tool
- NSFAS Funding Eligibility Checker Tool
- Edupstairs Qualification-to-Career Pathways Tool
- South African Salary Explorer Tool
- TVET College Enrolment Eligibility Checker Tool
- Edupstairs Career Personality Tool
- Daily Career Score Tracker
- Learnership and Internship Readiness Quiz
Edupstairs Advice (Read This Carefully)
At Edupstairs, we’ve seen one clear pattern:
Graduates who complete long-term, structured internships are far more employable than those with short courses only.
Our advice:
- Apply early
- Ensure your CV is clear and honest
- Use internships like this to build real skills, not just survive
- While waiting, improve:
- Basic IT certifications
- Communication skills
- Interview readiness
Career Growth Path After This Internship
Completing this internship can lead to roles such as:
- IT Support Technician
- Systems Administrator
- Network Administrator
- Junior Database Administrator
- IT Project Coordinator
- IT Officer in government or private sector
- SETA / public sector IT roles
Many former SETA interns go on to secure permanent roles in government departments, agencies, or large corporates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I apply if I previously did a learnership?
No. This internship is only for candidates who have never participated in an internship before.
- Is this internship permanent employment?
No. It’s a fixed-term internship, but it significantly improves your employability.
- Do I need work experience?
No prior work experience is required.
- Can TVET graduates apply?
Yes, if you hold an NQF 6 IT qualification.
- Is the stipend taxable?
Stipends are usually taxable depending on SARS thresholds.
CLOSING DATE: 26 JANUARY 2026
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Disclaimer
- Edupstairs is not affiliated with the Mining Qualifications Authority.
- Applicants must verify details on official platforms.
- Selection is at the sole discretion of MQA.
- Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee placement.
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