Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) is looking for suitable young people to apply for their Internship Programme 2026 opportunities. The closing date for applications is 27 February 2026.
Why this internship is a win for you
The QCTO Internship Programme is a bridge between getting your diploma and landing a real job. It’s hands‑on work in high‑demand areas like finance, law, human resources, quality assurance and marketing—plus the chance to earn a R5 000 monthly stipend while you learn. If you’re a fresh graduate, or just looking for a way to make your CV pop, this can be a game‑changer.
Day‑to‑day life
- Get real exposure: Work alongside professionals, see how policy, finance and training run in the public and private sectors.
- Mentorship: You’ll get a mentor to guide you through your first months.
- Learning: Structured workshops and on‑the‑job training keep you building skills that employers love.
- Networking: Meet people in your industry and create a network that could lead to permanent work.
Who can apply
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18‑35 years old |
| Status | Unemployed South African citizen |
| Qualifications | National Diploma (NQF Level 6) or higher |
| Experience | No prior internship required, but you must not have done an internship before |
| Location | Preference to residents of Gauteng, but anyone can apply |
| Diversity | Applicants from all backgrounds (including people with disabilities) are encouraged |
Internship fields (11 spots in total)
| Field | What you’ll do | Typical qualifications |
|---|---|---|
| Registry | Handle docs, file records, support compliance | Public Administration, Records Management |
| Finance | Budget tracking, invoice processing, financial reports | Finance, Accounting |
| Quality Assurance | Audits, data analysis, policy support | Education, Quality Management |
| Assessment Assurance | Moderation, standard checks, provider support | Education, Assessment Practices |
| Legal Services | Legal research, contract review, case docs | Law, Paralegal Studies |
| Human Resources | Recruitment, HR admin, training coordination | Human Resource Management |
| Secretariat | Meeting agendas, governance docs, reporting | Public Administration |
| Certification | Process cert apps, maintain databases | Education, Information Management |
| Marketing & Communication | Social media, campaigns, stakeholder engagement | Marketing, Communication |
| Supply Chain Management | Procurement, inventory tracking, vendor evaluation | Supply Chain Management |
| Accreditation | Accreditation support, compliance monitoring | Education, Quality Management |
What you’ll get
- Stipend: R5 000 per month
- Duration: 12‑month internship (exact dates vary by field)
- Location: Gauteng (most roles based in Johannesburg or Pretoria, but some may be remote)
- Career path: After you finish, you’re ready for roles like QA officer, HR officer, finance admin, compliance officer, or government admin roles in SETAs, TVET colleges, and corporate training units.
How to apply – step by step
- Check you meet the criteria – see the eligibility table above.
- Gather your documents
- Certified copy of your diploma
- Updated CV (tailored to the field you choose)
- Cover letter (optional but recommended)
- ID copy
- Visit the QCTO portal
QCTO website - Fill out the online application form
- Choose the internship you want
- Upload your documents
- Answer short questions about your interest and skills
- Submit before 27 February 2026
Apply right here before it closes - Wait for confirmation – if you’re shortlisted, you’ll be invited for a competency interview.
Tips to stand out
- Customise your CV – match keywords from the internship description.
- Showcase projects – include any practical modules or group work that relate to the role.
- Prepare for behavioural questions – think of times you solved a problem, worked in a team, or showed initiative.
- Research QCTO – know their mission (skills development, regulatory support) and speak to it in your cover letter.
- Follow up – after you apply, send a polite email thanking them for the opportunity and asking about the next steps.
FAQ
Who qualifies?
Unemployed South African graduates, 18‑35 years, with a National Diploma (NQF Level 6).
Do I need past work experience?
No. This internship is designed for people just starting out.
Can I live outside Gauteng?
Yes, but the program prefers applicants from Gauteng.
How much does it pay?
R5 000 per month.
Can I apply if I already had an internship?
No, the rule is no previous internship participation.
When do I need to apply?
Submit your application by 27 February 2026.
After the internship
You’ll have a portfolio of real work experience, a professional network, and a strong reference. Many interns secure contract or permanent positions with QCTO, SETAs, TVET colleges, or related government bodies. Think of it as a stepping stone to:
- Quality Assurance Officer
- HR Officer
- Finance Administrator
- Compliance Officer
- Training Coordinator
- Government Administration roles
Disclaimers
- Double‑check all details before you hit submit.
- Meeting minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee selection.
- QCTO may verify your qualifications and employment status.
- Late applications might not be considered.
Ready to jump into a paid, learning‑rich internship?
Grab your documents, hit the link, and get ready to start building the career you want. Good luck, and enjoy the journey!
