The Mpumalanga Regional Training Trust (MRTT), in partnership with ETDP SETA, has opened seven Graduate Internship positions for 2026. Successful interns will earn a monthly stipend of R6,000 to R7,500 while gaining real workplace experience across MRTT’s operations in Mpumalanga. The programme starts on 1 October 2026, and applications close on 4 September 2026 – just days away. Unemployed South African graduates with a Grade 12 plus a relevant National Diploma or Degree should apply now.
About MRTT and ETDP SETA
The Mpumalanga Regional Training Trust is a leading vocational and hospitality training institution based in Mpumalanga, historically known for producing world-class chefs, hospitality professionals and technical artisans through partnerships with international training partners. Alongside its own training centres, MRTT runs graduate development programmes designed to build workplace-ready professionals for the region’s tourism, hospitality and skills-development sectors.
The Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA) is one of 21 SETAs established under the Skills Development Act. ETDP SETA funds skills programmes across the education and training sector, including the graduate internships that anchor this MRTT programme. The 2026 intake gives unemployed graduates a foot in the door with a well-established training institution while ETDP SETA funds the stipend – a low-risk, high-value entry into the world of work.
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What You Will Learn and Earn
- Structured 12-month workplace experience across MRTT departments
- Monthly stipend of R6,000 to R7,500, depending on the position
- Practical exposure to how a training institution and SETA-funded programmes are managed day-to-day
- Mentorship from experienced MRTT staff
- A workplace reference letter and completion certificate at the end of the internship
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 35
- Currently unemployed and never previously participated in the ETDP SETA internship programme
- Grade 12 (National Senior Certificate) as a minimum
- A relevant completed National Diploma (NQF Level 6) or a Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7)
- Willing and able to work full-time in Mpumalanga for the duration of the 12-month programme
- Strong communication skills in English and computer literacy in MS Office
Required Documents
- Updated Curriculum Vitae
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- Certified copy of your National Diploma, Degree or Advanced Diploma and full academic record
- Short cover letter stating the specific internship position you are applying for and why you fit
- Contactable references from previous studies or short-term work placements
How to Apply
- Prepare an up-to-date CV and cover letter that clearly states which of the seven internship positions you are applying for.
- Certify copies of your ID, Matric certificate, tertiary qualifications and academic transcripts at your nearest SAPS or Commissioner of Oaths.
- Bundle everything into one clearly labelled PDF file.
- Send your application to the email address stated on the official MRTT advert, using the reference number in the subject line.
- Submit before 4 September 2026 at 16:30. Late or incomplete applications are automatically disqualified.
Apply through the MRTT official website or via the ETDP SETA vacancy portal.
Closing Date
The closing date for the MRTT and ETDP SETA Graduate Internship 2026 is 4 September 2026 at 16:30. No late applications will be accepted. With only a few days left, prepare and submit your application today – do not leave it for the last hour.
Why It Matters
Graduate unemployment in South Africa remains stubbornly high – more than one in ten South Africans with a degree cannot find work, and for those with a diploma the number is even higher. The single biggest reason employers cite is lack of workplace experience.
That is exactly the gap this MRTT and ETDP SETA internship closes. Twelve months in a real workplace, with a stipend and structured mentorship, dramatically improves your chances of landing your first permanent job. And because the programme is funded and hosted by two established institutions, the reference at the end carries weight when you apply for permanent roles. Seven positions is not a lot, but every one of them is worth going after.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any work experience to apply?
No prior work experience is required. This is a graduate internship for unemployed graduates who have not yet had structured workplace experience.
Can I apply if I live outside Mpumalanga?
Yes, but you must be willing and able to relocate to Mpumalanga for the full 12 months. MRTT does not provide accommodation or relocation support – budget for that from your stipend.
How is the stipend paid?
The stipend is paid monthly directly into the intern’s South African bank account. The specific rate within the R6,000 to R7,500 range is confirmed by MRTT during the offer stage.
What happens after the internship?
Interns who complete the programme receive a workplace certificate and reference. There is no guarantee of permanent employment at MRTT afterwards, but the experience and reference significantly strengthen your CV for both public and private-sector jobs.
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