Apply for the 2026 SABS Youth Development Programme and gain 12 months of experience in Strategy, Stakeholder & Media Relations. Open to unemployed graduates with an R8,000 monthly stipend. Closing date: 6 March 2026.
Young South African graduates looking to gain practical workplace experience now have an exciting opportunity through the SABS Youth Development Programme. The South African Bureau of Standards is inviting applications for its 2026 Strategy, Stakeholder & Media Relations Internship, a structured 12-month programme designed to prepare unemployed graduates for the professional world.
With only two positions available and a competitive monthly stipend of R8,000, this opportunity is ideal for high-performing graduates who want to build a strong career foundation in corporate strategy, communications, and stakeholder engagement.
Closing Date: 6 March 2026
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
Programme Start: April 2026
About the SABS Youth Development Programme
The SABS Youth Development Programme is a one-year fixed-term internship that provides unemployed graduates with structured training, mentorship, and real workplace exposure. The programme is aligned with national skills development priorities and aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional employment.
Participants will be placed within the Corporate Strategy Department under the Office of the CEO, where they will gain hands-on experience in strategic communication, stakeholder coordination, and organisational planning processes.
Working at SABS exposes interns to a dynamic environment focused on innovation, accountability, and excellence. The organisation plays a critical role in standardisation, quality assurance, and supporting business growth across South Africa, making this a valuable experience for graduates interested in corporate governance and strategic operations.
Quick Overview
- Programme: SABS Youth Development Programme 2026
- Reference Number: SAB260218-9
- Position: Strategy, Stakeholder & Media Relations Intern
- Duration: 12 Months (Fixed-Term Contract)
- Stipend: R8,000 per month
- Number of Positions: 2
- Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
- Start Date: April 2026
- Closing Date: 6 March 2026
Who Should Apply?
The programme targets motivated graduates who demonstrate strong academic performance and a willingness to learn in a professional environment.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Hold a Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma in a relevant field
- Have achieved a minimum academic average of 80%
- Have no formal work experience related to their field of study
- Be currently unemployed
This opportunity is especially suitable for graduates in fields such as communications, public relations, media studies, strategic management, corporate communications, or related disciplines.
Graduates living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
What You Will Gain
The SABS Youth Development Programme is more than just an internship. It is designed to equip participants with practical skills, professional exposure, and workplace confidence.
Interns will:
- Participate in structured learning and development sessions
- Receive mentoring and performance guidance
- Gain exposure to real organisational strategy processes
- Work on stakeholder and communication initiatives
- Develop professional reporting and project management skills
- Build a strong professional network within a national organisation
This type of experience significantly improves employability and helps graduates transition successfully into permanent roles after the programme.
Duties and Responsibilities
Successful candidates will be expected to actively participate in the programme and contribute to departmental objectives. Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting with departmental projects, research, and administrative tasks
- Supporting stakeholder engagement and communication activities
- Participating in structured training and development initiatives
- Completing rotational assignments and practical learning tasks
- Applying academic knowledge in a real work environment
- Preparing progress reports and completing programme assessments
- Collaborating effectively with team members and supervisors
- Complying with organisational policies and professional standards
The programme is designed to build both technical and workplace skills, including teamwork, communication, time management, and problem-solving.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
- A comprehensive CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
Important: Failure to submit all required documents will result in disqualification.
Selection Process
All applications will go through a strict screening and verification process.
- Qualification and academic records will be verified
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- If you do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful
- Late applications will not be accepted
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection, as the programme is highly competitive.
POPIA and Application Information
By submitting your application, you consent to the collection and processing of your personal information for recruitment purposes. All information will be handled securely and in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
Applicants must ensure that all information provided is accurate and truthful. Any false or misleading information may result in disqualification or termination from the programme.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Graduate unemployment remains one of South Africa’s biggest challenges. Programmes like the SABS Youth Development Programme play a vital role in helping young professionals gain the experience employers look for.
With structured training, a monthly stipend, and exposure to a respected national institution, this internship offers:
- Real work experience in a professional environment
- Practical skills aligned with industry needs
- Improved chances of future employment
- Career exposure in corporate strategy and communications
Because only two positions are available, interested graduates are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official SABS recruitment platform. Ensure that all required documents are attached and that your application is completed before the closing date of 6 March 2026.
Learnseta.net Disclaimer
This opportunity is published by https://learnseta.net/ for informational purposes only. Learnseta.net is not the recruiting organisation and does not process applications. All applications must be submitted directly through the official website of the South African Bureau of Standards.
While every effort is made to ensure that information published on Learnseta.net is accurate and up to date, applicants are encouraged to verify all details on the official source before applying. Learnseta.net is not responsible for application outcomes, changes to programme details, or recruitment decisions made by the employer.
Final Thoughts
The SABS Youth Development Programme 2026 is a valuable opportunity for academically strong graduates who want to build a career in strategy, stakeholder relations, and corporate communications. With structured learning, professional mentorship, and a competitive stipend, this internship can be the stepping stone to long-term career success.
If you meet the requirements and are ready to grow your professional experience, submit your application before 6 March 2026 and take the next step toward your future.
Natasha Langeni writes for Learnseta, sharing learnership and career opportunities that empower South African youth. She is passionate about skills development and connecting learners with programs that open doors to brighter futures.
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