Paid Internship Opportunity for Unemployed Office Administration Graduates
The University of the Free State (UFS) is inviting applications for the Wholesale & Retail (W&R) SETA Internship Programme 2026. This 12-month paid internship offers unemployed graduates the opportunity to gain practical workplace experience in a professional university environment.
A total of 20 internship positions are available, making this a valuable opportunity for graduates seeking their first work experience.
Internship Overview
- Programme: Wholesale & Retail (W&R) SETA Internship
- Host Institution: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Internship Duration: 12 months
- Working Hours: 40 hours per week
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
- Stipend: R5 000 per month
- Start Date: 01 April 2026
- Closing Date: 13 February 2026
Purpose of the Internship Programme
The W&R SETA Internship aims to support unemployed diploma graduates who have no formal work experience. The programme provides structured workplace exposure while allowing interns to apply the skills gained during their studies.
Only candidates who have never participated in a SETA-funded internship or learnership will be considered.
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What Will Interns Do?
Interns will be placed across various departments at UFS and will perform duties aligned with a Diploma in Office Administration.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Providing general administrative support
- Filing, record keeping, and data capturing
- Managing documents and administrative systems
- Assisting with meeting coordination and minute-taking
- Drafting and distributing correspondence
- Using MS Office and institutional systems
- Responding to routine enquiries and supporting customer service
- Assisting with reports and administrative tracking
- Applying professional communication and time management skills
- Participating in workplace learning and SETA monitoring activities
This internship builds practical admin, communication, and organisational skills valued by employers.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To qualify, applicants must meet ALL requirements:
Minimum Requirements (Non-Negotiable)
- Diploma in Office Administration (NQF Level 6) obtained from CUT
- South African citizen or permanent resident
- Currently unemployed (affidavit required)
- No previous work experience
- Must not be studying full-time
- Must never have participated in a SETA-funded internship or learnership
- Willing to sign a 12-month internship agreement with UFS
- Available for the full duration of the programme
⚠️ Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
- Detailed CV
- Certified copy of qualifications (not older than 3 months)
- SAQA accreditation (for foreign qualifications)
- Certified copy of ID (not older than 3 months)
- Affidavit confirming unemployment
- Affidavit confirming no prior SETA-funded internship participation
💡 The online system allows a maximum of eight attachments. Merge documents where necessary.
Required Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- Attention to detail and professionalism
- Ability to work in a structured environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Willingness to learn and adapt
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online only via the official UFS vacancy portal:
https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
Applications sent via email or other platforms will not be accepted.
Employment Equity
The University of the Free State is committed to employment equity, diversity, and redress. Preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups, including persons with disabilities.
Enquiries
For more information, contact:
- 051 401 2979
- JardineS@ufs.ac.za
- Recruit@ufs.ac.za
- 051 401 2558 / 2876
Why You Should Apply
This internship offers:
- A monthly stipend of R5 000
- Real workplace experience at a respected university
- Skills aligned with Office Administration careers
- A strong foundation for future employment
- Exposure to professional work environments
For graduates struggling to get their first job, this internship can be a career-changing opportunity.
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