Are you a young, tech-savvy South African graduate ready to make your mark in the world of data, analytics, and retail technology?
If you’ve been searching for a real, meaningful opportunity to break into the tech industry — not just an internship where you make coffee and print documents — the Smollan Graduate Programme (Data and Technology) 2026 is exactly the kind of launchpad many youth wish they had.
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This is a SETA-funded programme built to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real industry experience. For 12 months, you will be placed inside Smollan’s powerful Data and Technology business unit (DataOrbis) — one of the most respected tech-driven teams in the retail sector — where you will work on live projects, learn from global leaders, and build skills that will shape your future career.
Below is your full breakdown of the opportunity, how it works, and how to prepare.
Quick Overview
| Opportunity | Smollan Graduate Programme (Data & Technology) 2026 |
| Stipend | R8 000 per month |
| Duration | 12 Months (Starting 1 February 2026) |
| Location | Claremont, Cape Town (Hybrid Working) |
| Roles Available | 3 Graduate Roles |
| Funding | SETA-Funded Programme |
| Ideal For | Tech-savvy graduates with STEM degrees & strong Excel skills |
About Smollan (and Why This Opportunity Matters)
Smollan is one of the world’s leading retail solutions companies, operating in over 60 countries and partnering with some of the biggest global brands. Their work sits at the heart of retail — combining technology, data analytics, customer insights, and real-time execution to help brands grow.
Because retail is becoming more digital and data-driven every day, Smollan has invested heavily in its tech capabilities. One of its core engines is DataOrbis, a high-performance division that specialises in:
- Data integration
- Retail analytics
- Dashboard development
- Real-time insights
- Retail technology solutions
Being accepted into the Data & Technology Graduate Programme means you’re not just entering a company — you’re entering a global ecosystem that’s building the future of retail.
This programme is not for paper-pushers. It’s for thinkers, analysts, problem-solvers, creators, and innovators who want to be part of something big.
Why This Graduate Programme Stands Out
Most graduate programmes offer basic exposure.
This one offers:
- Hands-On Training with Real Projects
You won’t sit on the sidelines.
You’ll be inside the DataOrbis team, working with:
- Retail datasets
- Client insights
- Dashboards
- Data models
- Retail tech solutions
You will solve real problems — the kind companies pay millions to fix.
- Professional Development Workshops
Smollan invests in the whole person, not just the technical side.
You’ll attend sessions on:
- Confidence-building
- Communication
- Personal branding
- Career navigation
- Workplace readiness
These workshops are designed to help you grow as a professional and as a leader.
- One-on-One Mentorship
You will learn directly from experts who are shaping the future of retail technology.
Mentorship is proven to accelerate careers — and Smollan takes this seriously.
- A Diverse, Inclusive and Innovative Culture
You’ll work in an environment where innovation is welcomed, diversity is celebrated, and growth is encouraged.
This combination makes the programme ideal for ambitious, tech-driven graduates who want to fast-track their careers.
What You Will Do (Your Daily Impact)
Your role will include:
Analysing Data to Drive IT Strategy
You will work with raw data, identify patterns, and translate insights into strategic decisions.
Collaborating With Cross-Functional Teams
You will work closely with:
- Tech teams
- Retail partners
- Project managers
- Clients
- External stakeholders
This builds communication, planning, and teamwork skills you will use for the rest of your career.
Exploring Retail Tech Trends
You will stay up to date with:
- Emerging technologies
- Retail automation
- Data integration tools
- Digital shelf analytics
- AI-powered insights
Developing and Implementing Tech Solutions
Your ideas won’t just sit on a document.
You’ll help build, test, and roll out real retail technology systems.
What Smollan Offers You
- 12-Month SETA-Funded Contract (Starts 1 February 2026)
A structured graduate programme with clear milestones.
- Monthly Stipend: R8 000
A competitive stipend for Cape Town.
- Hybrid Working in Claremont
You get flexibility plus valuable office exposure.
- Only 3 Roles Available
This makes the programme extremely competitive — only the best applicants make it.
- A Culture Built for Growth
Innovation, diversity, and inclusion are central to Smollan’s identity.
Who Smollan Is Looking For (Minimum Requirements)
To qualify, you must meet the following:
Education
A completed 3–4 year degree, ideally in a STEM field such as:
- Computer Science
- Information Systems
- Data Analytics
- Statistics
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Data Science
- IT
Essential Excel Skills
You must be strong in:
- VLOOKUP
- Pivot Tables
- Basic Functions
Excel competency is non-negotiable.
SQL Experience (Advantage)
Not mandatory, but a strong plus.
Soft Skills
- Analytical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Excellent communication
Mindset
- Passion for tech
- Curiosity
- Commitment
- Willingness to learn
- Ability to work in a team and independently
How to Apply
APPLY FOR THE SMOLLAN GRADUATE INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME (DATA AND TECHNOLOGY) HERE
Before you Apply, Check the Edupstairs Youth Tools Hub below that can be helpful in your application
- 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
- 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
Edupstairs Advice (From Us to You)
Tech and data roles are among the fastest-growing careers in South Africa. If you have STEM skills — even at beginner level — this programme can open opportunities that many people never get.
Our advice:
- Prepare a strong CV showing your Excel skills clearly.
- Complete free SQL basics courses to strengthen your application.
- Show your passion for tech in your cover letter.
- Highlight any personal projects — dashboards, data analysis, coding exercises, etc.
- Practice common interview questions around analytics, Excel, teamwork, and problem-solving.
With only three positions available, the competition will be tough — but if you prepare properly, you can stand out.
Career Growth After Completing This Programme
Once you finish the Smollan Data & Technology Graduate Programme, you will be able to pursue careers such as:
- Data Analyst
- Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst
- Data Engineer
- Retail Technology Specialist
- IT Support Analyst
- Insights Analyst
- Junior Software Developer
- Process Improvement Analyst
- Data Technician
- Analytics Consultant
You will also be well-positioned for:
- Future Smollan roles
- Roles at global retail tech companies
- Opportunities in FMCG, e-commerce, logistics, and digital analytics
This programme builds a foundation for a high-income, future-proof career path.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is this a paid programme?
Yes, graduates earn a monthly stipend of R8 000.
- How long is the programme?
12 months, starting 1 February 2026.
- Is it only for STEM graduates?
STEM majors are preferred, but any 3–4 year degree with strong Excel skills will be considered.
- Is SQL required?
No. But candidates with SQL exposure have a competitive advantage.
- How many positions are available?
Only 3 roles — making this a highly competitive programme.
- Where will I work?
In Claremont, Cape Town, with a hybrid working structure.
- Can I apply if I have no work experience?
Yes. No prior work experience is required.
- Is the programme SETA-funded?
Yes, this is a fully SETA-funded graduate opportunity.
- Will I get mentorship?
Yes. You will be paired with experienced professionals for guidance.
- What happens after the programme?
Graduates often progress into permanent tech, data, or retail analytics roles.
CLOSING DATE: NOT SPECIFIED
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Disclaimer
Edupstairs is not an agent or representative of Smollan. We simply share verified opportunities to help young people access jobs, learnerships, bursaries, and graduate programmes. Always apply directly using the official application channels provided by the organisation.
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