Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University MQA Graduate Internships 2026

The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is offering a valuable opportunity for unemployed South African graduates to gain practical experience through the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) Graduate Internship Programme. This program aims to provide hands-on training and development over a 24-month period, with a monthly stipend of R9,000. Applications are open until November 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM.

This internship is a fantastic chance for recent graduates to enter the workforce and build a career in fields related to health sciences and administration. The program is hosted at SMU’s Ga-Rankuwa campus in Pretoria, Gauteng.

Understanding the MQA Graduate Internship Programme

The MQA Graduate Internship Programme at SMU is managed by the university’s Research and Innovation Directorate. It provides six distinct internship positions, all funded by the Mining Qualifications Authority. The primary goal is to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge needed for their chosen career paths.

To be eligible, applicants must be unemployed South African citizens who have successfully completed the qualification required for the specific internship they are applying for. This program is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice.

Available Internship Opportunities

SMU has six internship positions available, each with specific qualification requirements and role overviews. These roles cover a range of administrative and technical functions within the university.

Here are the available internship opportunities:

Research Information Management System Intern

This role requires a Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field. The intern will be responsible for assisting with research outputs administration, reporting, and system administration. They will also provide user support for human and animal research ethics systems. The email subject for this application should be “MQA2026-RIMS | Name Surname”.

Business Development Officer Intern

For this position, applicants need a Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, Entrepreneurship, or Commerce. The intern will support entrepreneurship programs, business incubation, enterprise development, and assist student and emerging entrepreneurs within the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Research Innovation (CfERI). The email subject should be “MQA2026-CFERI | Name Surname”.

Finance Intern

SMU is looking for two Finance Interns. Applicants must hold a Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, Financial Management, or a related field. The interns will help with financial administration, monitoring expenditures, and preparing financial reports. The email subject for applications is “MQA2026-FIN | Name Surname”.

Postgraduate Administration Intern: Pharmacy

This internship requires a Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Office Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field. The successful candidate will assist with postgraduate administration, provide secretarial support for committees, manage external examiner appointments, and handle records and meeting administration. The email subject line must be “MQA2026-PGA | Name Surname”.

Laboratory Technician Intern

This position is for an Honours Degree holder in Chemistry or a Master’s Degree in Chemistry. The intern will assist with chemistry research, undergraduate practical sessions, and general laboratory operations, including safety and stock control. The email subject for this role is “MQA2026-LAB | Name Surname”.

General Requirements and Application Process

All applicants must be unemployed South African citizens and have completed the relevant qualification for the internship they are applying for. Applications must be submitted via email to [email protected] before the closing date of November 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM.

When applying, applicants must use the correct subject line as specified for each position and replace “Name Surname” with their full name. If applying for more than one internship, a separate email application is required for each position.

Required Documents

Applicants need to attach the following documents in PDF format to their email application:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• A one-page motivational letter explaining their suitability for the chosen internship.
• A certified copy of their South African ID.
• A certified copy of their Matric certificate.
• A certified academic record.
• A certified qualification certificate.

All submitted documents must be clear and legible. Image files and password-protected documents will not be accepted.

Important Application Information

It is crucial for applicants to note the following:

• All applications must be submitted by 4:00 PM on November 6, 2026.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Incomplete applications will be disqualified.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
• Shortlisted candidates must be available for interviews on dates communicated by the university.
• If you have not been contacted within 30 days after the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful.

Conclusion

The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University MQA Graduate Internship Programme presents a significant opportunity for unemployed graduates to gain valuable experience and kickstart their careers. With six diverse positions available, there is a chance for individuals with backgrounds in IT, business, finance, administration, and chemistry to contribute and grow. Ensure all application requirements are met, including the correct documentation and submission deadline, to be considered for these 24-month paid internships.