Are you a recent South African graduate looking for a paid place to start your career? The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University is offering a 24‑month graduate internship funded by the Mining Qualifications Authority – and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the MQA Graduate Internship Programme is
The Research and Innovation Directorate at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) in Ga‑Rankuwa, Pretoria, Gauteng, is offering six paid internships. The programme runs for 24 months and pays a stipend of R9 000 per month. Applications close on 06 November 2026 at 16:00.
Who can apply
- South African citizens only
- Currently unemployed
- Have completed the relevant qualification for the chosen position
What you will gain
- Two years of hands‑on experience in a university research environment
- A monthly stipend of R9 000 to support you while you work
- Professional skills in research administration, finance, business development, pharmacy administration or laboratory work
- Networking opportunities with industry partners linked to the mining sector
Available internship positions
Research Information Management System Intern (1 post)
Minimum qualification:
- Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or a related field
Role overview:
- Manage research outputs and reporting
- Maintain the research information system
- Provide user support for human and animal ethics systems
Email subject line: MQA2026-RIMS | Your Name
Business Development Officer Intern (1 post)
Minimum qualification:
- Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Entrepreneurship or Commerce
Role overview:
- Support entrepreneurship programmes
- Assist business incubation and enterprise development
- Work with student entrepreneurs and emerging businesses within CfERI
Email subject line: MQA2026-CFERI | Your Name
Finance Intern (2 posts)
Minimum qualification:
- Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Financial Management or a related field
Role overview:
- Handle financial administration and expenditure monitoring
- Prepare financial reports
Email subject line: MQA2026-FIN | Your Name
Postgraduate Administration Intern – Pharmacy (1 post)
Minimum qualification:
- Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Office Management, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field
Role overview:
- Assist with postgraduate administration and committee secretarial work
- Support external examiner appointments and records management
- Help organise meetings
Email subject line: MQA2026-PGA | Your Name
Laboratory Technician Intern (1 post)
Minimum qualification:
- Honours degree or Master’s degree in Chemistry
Role overview:
- Support chemistry research projects
- Help run undergraduate practical sessions
- Maintain laboratory operations, safety and stock control
Email subject line: MQA2026-LAB | Your Name
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required PDF documents: CV, one‑page motivation letter, certified copy of your ID, Matric certificate, academic record and qualification certificate.
- Rename each file clearly (e.g.,
CV_YourName.pdf) and make sure they are legible. - Compose an email to tshepo.sebesho@smu.ac.za. Use the exact subject line shown for the internship you are applying for and replace “Your Name” with your full name.
- Attach all required PDFs to the email.
- Send the email before 16:00 on 06 November 2026.
Click here to apply for Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University MQA Graduate Internships 2026
Tips to improve your chances
- Proofread your motivation letter – keep it to one page and focus on why you match the role.
- Make sure every document is in PDF format and clearly scanned.
- Use the correct subject line; a wrong subject may cause your application to be ignored.
- If you are applying for more than one position, send a separate email for each.
- Double‑check the closing date and time. Late submissions are not considered.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria, submit your application today. Remember, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and you should be ready for an interview on the dates the university provides. Don’t wait – this paid, two‑year internship could be the launchpad for your professional journey.
