Do not miss this chance – the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University Built Environment Programme closes on 18 September 2026 at 16:00, and it could be the first step to a solid career in construction, engineering or the built environment.
What the opportunity is
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is offering 38 apprenticeship, internship and Work‑Integrated Learning (WIL) spots in its Built Environment Department. The programme is part of the DHET‑SMU Apprenticeship Recruitment Programme 2026 and runs for 24 months.
| Programme Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University |
| Department | Built Environment Department |
| Programme | DHET‑SMU Apprenticeship Recruitment Programme |
| Opportunity Type | Apprenticeship / Internship / WIL |
| Total Opportunities | 38 posts |
| Contract Duration | 24 months |
| Main Fields | Construction, Engineering, Architecture, Trades, Environmental Management, Horticulture, Occupational Health & Safety |
| Citizenship | South African citizens |
| Previous Internship | Applicants must not have held a prior internship |
| Application Method | |
| Closing Date | 18 September 2026 |
| Closing Time | 16:00 |
Who can apply (requirements and eligibility)
You must be a South African citizen who has not previously worked in an internship or similar programme. The programme welcomes applicants with the following qualifications:
- N6 certificates (e.g., Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Welding, Carpentry, HVAC/Refrigeration)
- National Diplomas
- Engineering degrees (BEng or higher)
Specific fields and reference numbers are listed below. Use the SETA SA Career & Qualification Explorer to check how your qualification matches a particular role.
Construction Management – 3 posts (Ref: 60/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: Diploma, BEng or higher in Construction Science, Construction Management or Building Sciences.
Architect – 3 posts (Ref: 61/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: Diploma, BEng or higher in Architectural Studies.
Quantity Surveyor – 2 posts (Ref: 62/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: Diploma, BEng or higher in Construction Economics, Quantity Surveying or Building Sciences.
Civil Engineer – 3 posts (Ref: 63/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: N6, Diploma, BEng or higher in Civil Engineering.
Electrical Engineer – 5 posts (Ref: 64/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: Relevant engineering diploma or degree.
Mechanical Engineer / HVAC – 4 posts (Ref: 65/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: Relevant engineering diploma or degree.
Plumbing – 4 posts (Ref: 66/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: N6, Diploma or higher in Plumbing. A trade certificate is an advantage.
Welding / Boilermaking – 3 posts (Ref: 67/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: N6, Diploma or higher. Trade certificate adds value.
Carpentry – 3 posts (Ref: 68/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: N6, Diploma or higher. Trade certificate is a plus.
HVAC Artisan / Refrigeration – 3 posts (Ref: 69/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: N6, Diploma or higher. Trade certificate advantageous.
Health & Safety – 2 posts (Ref: 70/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: Occupational Health & Safety, NEBOSH Level 6 or similar.
Horticulturist – 2 posts (Ref: 71/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: Diploma in Horticulture, Landscape Management or related technology.
Environmental Officer – 2 posts (Ref: 72/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: Diploma, BTech or BSc in Environmental Sciences, Management or Engineering.
Irrigation Specialist / Agricultural Engineer – 1 post (Ref: 73/2026/KM/Intern)
Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Agricultural Engineering, or NQF 6 level certificate.
What you gain (benefits and skills)
- 24 months of paid, hands‑on experience in a university setting.
- Opportunity to work on real projects across construction, engineering and environmental fields.
- Development of time‑management, communication, report‑writing and teamwork skills.
- Exposure to South Africa’s SETA system – especially CETA for construction trades and other relevant SETAs for engineering.
- Networking with professionals who can help you find permanent work after the contract ends.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Identify the position that matches your qualification and note the reference number.
- Prepare a typed CV that highlights relevant education and any project work.
- Attach certified copies of all qualifications.
- Include contact details for three referees.
- Compose an email addressed to Mr K Mothabela and include the reference number in the subject line.
- Send the email to hr.recruitment1@smu.ac.za before 16:00 on 18 September 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Match your qualification exactly to the advertised requirement – a mismatch will lead to automatic disqualification.
- Use the correct reference number for the role you are applying for; a generic application will be ignored.
- Proof‑read your CV and ensure all documents are certified copies.
- Submit your application well before the deadline; avoid last‑minute submissions.
- Do not pay any agency or individual to submit your application – SMU only accepts direct emails.
- If you hold a foreign qualification, have it evaluated by SAQA before you apply.
Encouraging conclusion and next steps
This programme is a real gateway for young South Africans who have the right qualifications but still need workplace exposure. Whether you hold an N6 certificate, a diploma or an engineering degree, there is a place for you.
Start by checking the SETA SA Career & Qualification Explorer to confirm your fit, then follow the step‑by‑step application guide above. Remember, the deadline is 18 September 2026 at 16:00 – act now, and you could be on the path to a rewarding career in the built environment.
