The South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) is running the Wind Industry Internship Programme (WIIP) 2027 – a timely chance for unemployed South African graduates to gain hands‑on experience in the fast‑growing renewable‑energy sector.
What the internship is
The WIIP is a 12‑month, EWSETA‑funded placement with host organisations that operate across the wind‑energy value chain. You will be placed in a department that matches your study background, giving you real‑world exposure to the renewable‑energy industry.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must be unemployed.
- You must have graduated from a university or TVET College.
- Your qualification must be in one of the approved fields (see below).
- A short‑course certificate alone does not meet the qualification requirement.
Fields of study that are accepted
Engineering and Science
- Energy
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Development Studies
Information Technology and Technology
- Computer Science
- Coding
- Software Engineering
- Management Information Systems
- Information Technology
Business and Commerce
- Business Administration
- Accounting
- Finance
- Procurement
- Human Resource Management
- Marketing
- Communication
Social Sciences and Law
- International Relations
- Gender Studies
- Law
What you will gain
You will earn practical workplace experience in a renewable‑energy setting. The internship can help you build technical, analytical, and project‑management skills that are highly valued by future employers.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents and combine them into ONE PDF in this order:
- South African ID document
- Curriculum Vitae (max 1 page)
- Proof of qualification
- Academic record
- Reference letter (optional)
- Visit the official SAWEA WIIP Intern 2027 application portal: Apply here.
- Complete the online form. Provide your name, ID number, age, contact details, address, province, district municipality, and willingness to relocate.
- Enter your qualification details and NQF level accurately.
- Select the “Preferred Placement Field” that best matches your study background.
- Upload the single PDF you prepared.
- Read the declaration carefully and submit the application before the deadline.
Tips to improve your chances
- Submit early; the deadline is 30 October 2026.
- Tailor your one‑page CV to highlight any projects or coursework related to energy, technology, or business.
- Double‑check that your PDF follows the required order.
- If you are a TVET graduate, confirm that your N6 qualification meets the criteria by contacting SAWEA.
- Be ready to discuss how your degree can add value to a wind‑energy project during a potential interview.
Next steps
If you do not hear back by December 2026, you can assume the application was not successful. Remember, applying does not guarantee shortlisting, an interview, or placement, but it is a solid step toward a career in South Africa’s renewable‑energy sector.
