The ETDP SETA Disaster Management Internship Programme 2026 at the University of the Free State is open for applications, but the deadline is fast approaching. If you are a South African graduate looking for real‑world experience in disaster management, this could be the right step for you.
What the internship is
The University of the Free State will take one unemployed graduate on a 24‑month internship at the Disaster Management Training and Education Centre for Africa (DiMTEC). The role is based on the Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, and offers a fixed stipend of R8 500 per month. Interns will start on 1 August 2026 and work 40 hours each week.
Who can apply (eligibility)
To be considered, you must meet all of the following:
- South African citizen, aged 18‑35
- Unemployed and not studying full‑time
- No prior formal work experience or previous internship (including SETA‑funded programmes)
- Available for the full 24‑month period
- Willing to sign an internship or learnership agreement with the University
Minimum qualification:
- Master’s degree (NQF Level 9) in Disaster Management, or
- A closely related NQF Level 9 qualification
What you will gain
The placement will give you hands‑on experience in:
- Disaster‑risk reduction research and climate‑adaptation projects
- Systematic literature reviews and data collection (quantitative & qualitative)
- Data analysis using statistical or qualitative software
- Writing research reports, policy briefs and technical documents
- Planning and supporting training workshops, seminars and short courses
- Engaging with government departments, NGOs, community groups and academic partners
In addition to the stipend, you will develop professional skills such as stakeholder communication, project coordination and academic writing.
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the official University of the Free State recruitment portal: Apply for the ETDP SETA Internship 2026.
- Enter the vacancy details: Position – ETDP SETA Internship, Job ID – 110357.
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal and educational information.
- Upload all required documents (see the list below) as PDF files. Remember the system allows a maximum of eight attachments.
- Review your application for completeness and submit before 20 July 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Include any GIS training or certification (ArcGIS, QGIS) and showcase it on your CV.
- Highlight experience with statistical software (SPSS, R) or qualitative tools (NVivo).
- Mention involvement in community‑based disaster‑risk projects or climate‑resilience work.
- If you have tutored or assisted in research, list those roles clearly.
- Demonstrate the competencies the University looks for:
- Results orientation: reliability, high standards, commitment to deliver.
- Strategic thinking: attention to detail, logical analysis, problem‑solving.
- Business acumen: familiarity with Microsoft Office, adherence to procedures.
- Leadership & teamwork: motivation, cooperation, positive attitude.
- Relationship building: clear communication, strong interpersonal skills.
- Combine related documents into a single PDF to stay within the eight‑file limit.
- Proofread every document; illegible uploads will be rejected.
Important documents and upload instructions
Prepare the following files before you start the online upload:
- Updated CV (detailed, dated).
- Copies of your master’s degree and any other qualifications (official proof).
- SAQA evaluation if you hold foreign qualifications.
- South African ID document (front and back).
- Affidavit confirming you are unemployed.
- Affidavit confirming you have not previously taken part in a SETA‑funded internship.
- Any additional documents listed on the vacancy page.
The portal permits up to eight attachments. Merge related papers (e.g., qualifications + transcripts, ID + affidavits) into combined PDFs to avoid exceeding the limit. Ensure each file is clear and readable before uploading.
Contact and enquiries
If you have questions about the role, you can reach the internship coordinator:
Phone: 051 401 7659
Email: SejanamaneP@ufs.ac.za
Additional contact numbers: 051 401 2558 or 051 401 9813. Verify any other email address on the official recruitment portal before use.
Selection process and verification
Shortlisted candidates may be asked to provide:
- Qualification, identity and citizenship verification
- Checks on internship, employment and reference history
- Competency assessments or other screening tools
Provide truthful and verifiable information; false details will lead to disqualification.
Employment equity and inclusion
The University of the Free State is committed to transformation, diversity and equal opportunity. Preference may be given to candidates from under‑represented groups, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Protection of personal information
All personal data you submit will be handled in line with South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). The information is used only for recruitment, selection and related employment processes.
Outcome and next steps
The University will contact only those shortlisted. If you do not hear back within six weeks after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful. The institution reserves the right not to fill the position.
Key dates
- Application closing date: 20 July 2026
- Internship start date: 1 August 2026
