SABS Youth Development Internship 2026 – Apply by 06 Mar Pretoria

If you’re a fresh graduate looking for real work experience, the Thapelo Madibeng Bursary has a reason to keep you busy: the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) is launching its 2026 Youth Development Internship Programme. With a 12‑month contract, a monthly stipend of R8,000, and hands‑on exposure in a national standards organisation, it’s a chance to jump‑start a career in quality, compliance, or research.

What Is the SABS Internship Programme?

SABS is South Africa’s national standards body. It creates, promotes and checks standards so products and services are safe and reliable. The internship is a one‑year, structured learning path that gives you:

Practical work experience in different departments
Mentoring and coaching from senior staff
Training that aligns with industry skill needs
An understanding of how standards shape business and consumer safety

Every successful intern receives a R8,000 monthly stipend.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify you must:

Be a South African citizen
Be between 18 and 35 years old
Hold a relevant qualification
Have no prior formal work experience in your field
Be currently unemployed

Applicants also need a minimum of 80 % academic average for the completed qualification.

What You’ll Gain

Beyond the stipend, the internship offers:

Hands‑on exposure to national standards development
Industry‑relevant skills in quality assurance, compliance, research, engineering, or ICT
Structured mentorship that boosts confidence and workplace readiness
Professional networking with experts across multiple sectors
Enhanced CV appeal for future jobs or higher studies

How to Apply – Step by Step

1. Check the closing date: 06 March 2026. After that date, applications will not be accepted.

2. Gather your documents:

Current CV
Certified copy of your ID
Certified copies of your qualification certificates

3. Select a role that matches your interests and click the link below to view details and start the application. There are several positions across strategy, certification, facilities, risk, audit, accreditation, laboratory services, human capital, ICT, supply chain, finance, and customer partnering.

Available Positions

Important notes:

Graduates with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Late applications will not be considered.
Successful candidates will sign a fixed‑term 1‑year Development Programme contract.
Only shortlisted applicants will receive correspondence; if no update appears within the set period, consider your application unsuccessful.

Practical Tips to Boost Your Chances

From experience, most successful candidates:

Submit a clear, concise CV that highlights your academic projects and any volunteer work.
Use a simple cover letter that explains why you want to work with SABS and what you hope to learn.
Double‑check that your documents are certified copies and that your grades meet the 80 % requirement.
Apply early, before the 06 March 2026 deadline, to avoid last‑minute issues.
Keep the application form neat and avoid typos; recruiters spot errors quickly.
Remember, SABS values a willingness to learn and teamwork. Highlight any examples where you collaborated or adapted to new challenges.

Take the Next Step

Ready to build a solid foundation in standards and compliance? Gather your documents, choose the role that interests you, and apply before 06 March 2026. The internship could be the stepping stone that turns your degree into a rewarding career.