South African graduates seeking valuable work experience in 2026 can now apply for the SAFCOL Internship Opportunities 2026. This prestigious 12-month programme is offered by the South African Forestry Company Limited (SAFCOL) to support skills development and boost youth employability.
With placements in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo, SAFCOL is inviting unemployed graduates and qualified artisans to participate in its YES Internship Programme. The closing date for applications is 6 February 2026.
What is SAFCOL?
SAFCOL SOC Ltd is a state-owned enterprise mandated to manage South Africa’s commercial forestry assets sustainably. The company plays a crucial role in timber production, environmental stewardship, and rural economic development. Through its operations, SAFCOL contributes significantly to job creation and youth empowerment within the forestry sector.
For more information on the organisation’s impact, visit the SAFCOL official website.
Why the SAFCOL Internship Programme Matters
The SAFCOL Internship Opportunities 2026 form part of the broader Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative. This programme targets South Africans under the age of 35 who have completed their studies but lack real-world experience.
Interns will gain:
- Hands-on experience in a state-owned enterprise
- Mentorship from seasoned professionals
- Workplace readiness training
- Improved employability upon completion
This experience can be a critical stepping stone for young professionals looking to establish their careers in the public or private sector.
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Who Should Apply?
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be 35 years old or younger
- Be unemployed
- Have a National Diploma, Degree, N6 Certificate or Trade Test Certificate from a recognised institution
- Be passionate about learning and open to relocating if required
SAFCOL Internship Opportunities 2026: Available Disciplines
SAFCOL offers placements in multiple departments across three provinces. Below is a breakdown of the available internship positions, their reference numbers, locations, and qualification requirements.
Finance Internships
Pretoria & Mbombela
- Finance (Debtors) – Ref: DEDT-PTA | Diploma/Degree in Finance or Cost & Management Accounting
- Tax & Treasury – Ref: TAX-MBO | Degree in Taxation
- Creditors – Ref: CRE-MBO | Diploma/Degree in Financial Management, Accounting, Bookkeeping
- Group Reporting & Budgeting – Ref: FIN-PTA | Degree/Diploma in Accounting or Finance
- Supply Chain Management (SCM) – Ref: SCM-MBO | Diploma/Degree in SCM, Logistics, Procurement, Operations Management
Communications & Marketing
Pretoria
- Graphic Design – Ref: COM-PTA | Diploma/Degree in Graphic Design
Human Resources
Mbombela
- Human Capital Practitioner – Ref: HC-MBO | Diploma/National Diploma/N6 in HR Management
- Learning & Development – Ref: L&D-TIM (Levubu) | Diploma in Business Admin, HRD, or ETDP Certificate
ICT and Auditing
Mbombela
- IT Support Technician – Ref: ICT-MBO | Diploma in Information Technology
- Internal Auditing – Ref: INT-AUD-MBO | Diploma/BCom in Internal Auditing
- Forensic Auditing – Ref: FOREN-MBO | Diploma/BCom in Internal Auditing or LLB
Tourism and Business Support
Mpumalanga & Limpopo
- Ecotourism – Ref: ECO-SAB (Sabie) | Diploma in Tourism or Ecotourism Management
- Office of the CEO Intern – Ref: OFF-CEO (Mbombela) | N6 in Management Assistant or Business Studies
How to Apply for SAFCOL Internships
Follow these steps to submit your application:
Required Documents
- A detailed CV
- Certified copies of all qualifications
- Certified copy of your South African ID
Submit your application via email:
Send all documents to: interns@safcol.co.za
IMPORTANT: Use the correct reference number in the email subject line.
Closing Date: 6 February 2026
Benefits of Joining SAFCOL as an Intern
- Exposure to state-owned enterprise systems
- On-the-job training across critical functions
- Placement in real work environments
- Development of soft and technical skills
- Potential for future employment
In a competitive job market, experience matters. SAFCOL’s internship programme provides the launchpad many graduates need to thrive.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for SAFCOL Internship Opportunities 2026?
Any unemployed South African graduate or qualified artisan under the age of 35, with a relevant qualification.
What is the duration of the programme?
It’s a 12-month internship under the YES programme.
Are interns paid?
While the exact stipend isn’t specified, YES internships typically include a monthly stipend.
Can I apply for more than one position?
Yes, but ensure each application is submitted separately with the correct reference number.
The SAFCOL Internship Opportunities 2026 offer much more than work experience — they offer a chance to build a sustainable career in one of South Africa’s most vital sectors. With positions available in finance, ICT, auditing, HR, tourism, and more, this programme is open to a wide range of academic backgrounds.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative journey. Make sure to submit your complete application before the 6 February 2026 deadline.
