South African Tourism Invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Graduate Internship Programme vacancies. The closing date for applications is 30 January 2026.
What’s This Internship All About?
South African Tourism is looking for 23 bright graduates to join a 24‑month hands‑on program. This isn’t a part‑time shadowing role – you’ll be working on real projects that shape South Africa’s tourism future. The internship gives you a chance to build a strong résumé and make contacts that could lead to a full‑time job in tourism, marketing, data, or other fields.
- Where? Sandton, Gauteng
- Who? Any South African graduate with a National Diploma (NQF 6) or a Degree/BTech (NQF 7)
- When? Start in early 2026 and finish in late 2027
- How many? 23 spots total
- Why it matters: Many past interns land permanent roles in tourism bodies, government, marketing agencies, or data‑driven teams.
Who Can Apply?
- You’re a South African citizen.
- You’ve earned at least a 3‑year tertiary qualification.
- You haven’t done any internship before.
- You’re ready to commit full‑time for the entire 24 months.
You don’t qualify if:
- You already completed a graduate internship (public or private).
- You’re still studying.
- Your degree is not NQF 6 or 7.
What Jobs Are There? (23 Posts in Total)
| Unit | Field | Key Tasks | What You’ll Learn |
|---|---|---|---|
| Office of the CEO (SAT101) | Public Relations, Marketing, Communications | Stakeholder outreach, admin work | Organising skills, communication |
| Legal Services (SAT102) | Law (LLB/BCom Law) | Handling confidential documents | Attention to detail, secrecy |
| Strategic Planning, Evaluation & Project Management (SAT103) | Public Management, Auditing | Planning, assessing projects | Strategic thinking |
| Brand, Marketing & Public Relations (SAT104) | Two posts – Strategic Communications, Digital Marketing | Social media, content, PR | Graphic design, copywriting |
| Insights & Analytics (SAT105) | Two posts – Research, Statistics, Data Science | Visualising data, analysing trends | Data handling, optimisation |
| Finance & Supply Chain (SAT106) | Four posts – Finance, Logistics | Accounting, supply chain issues | Problem solving |
| National Convention Bureau (SAT107) | Sales, Events, Tourism Management | Planning events, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) | Event coordination |
| Tourism Grading Council (SAT108) | Hospitality, Quality Assurance | Assessing services, customer focus | QA skills |
| Global Trade (SAT109) | Digital Marketing for tourism | Graphic design, online campaigns | Digital marketing |
| Human Capital (HR) (SAT110) | HR Management, Industrial Psychology | Emotional intelligence, confidentiality | People management |
| Information & Communications Technology (SAT111) | Two posts – IT, Business Analytics | Cybersecurity, database support | Tech skills |
| Tourism Execution (Domestic & International) (SAT112) | Marketing, Travel, Events | Working in Europe, Africa, Asia, and South Africa | Global exposure |
Each reference number (e.g., SAT101) is used when you submit your application.
Why This Internship Is a Big Deal
- You’ll handle real projects that influence national and international tourism.
- Daily interaction with industry experts.
- You build a full‑time portfolio that shows you’re ready for serious work.
- The 24‑month record on your CV can help you jump straight into a permanent job or a graduate trainee program.
How to Apply
Gather your documents
- Updated CV
- Certified ID copy
- Certified Grade 12 certificate
- Certified academic transcripts
Choose the right reference number that matches the field you’re interested in and put it in your application.
Submit on or before 30 January 2026 through the official PNet portal.
Apply Now – use the link on the South African Tourism career page.
Only the shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Make your CV clear and honest.
- Highlight skills that fit the specific business unit.
- Don’t wait until the last day—submit early.
- If you have a disability, the program strongly encourages you to apply.
What Happens After the Internship?
Most interns move into:
- Graduate trainee roles
- Junior specialist positions
- Permanent contracts in tourism, marketing, data, HR, IT, or events
Your journey could look like: Graduate ➜ Internship ➜ Entry‑Level Pro ➜ Specialist.
FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is it paid? | The program is a structured, funded internship under public sector rules, so yes, it typically includes a stipend. |
| Can I apply for more than one post? | Yes, but each application must quote the correct reference number. |
| Do I need any work experience? | No. In fact, past internships disqualify you because the program is meant for first‑time experience. |
| Are graduates with disabilities welcome? | Absolutely – they are strongly encouraged to apply. |
Important Notes
- South African Tourism is the employer, not the posting site.
- All applications go through PNet; incomplete or late ones will not be accepted.
- Only shortlisted candidates will receive a reply.
Ready to kickstart your career?
Check the official South African Tourism website for more details and to submit your application before 30 January 2026.
