The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) invites applications for its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Internship Programme 2026. This opportunity is aimed at unemployed South African graduates who are eager to gain valuable workplace experience within a leading science and technology organisation.
A total of four internship positions are available at SANSA’s Pretoria offices. The programme offers successful candidates an opportunity to develop practical skills, receive mentorship, and gain exposure to real-world ICT operations over a 12-month contract period.
About SANSA
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is a public entity that operates under the National Department of Science and Innovation. The agency is responsible for promoting the use of space science and technology while advancing South Africa’s capabilities in space-related research, engineering, and innovation.
SANSA plays a significant role in supporting scientific research, developing space technologies, and creating opportunities for industrial growth within the country’s space sector. Through its various programmes and initiatives, the agency contributes to national development and technological advancement.
As part of its commitment to skills development, SANSA offers internship programmes designed to provide graduates with practical workplace experience and professional development opportunities.
Internship Overview
- Position: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Interns
- Number of Positions: 4
- Reference Number: ICT00001
- Department: Corporate Office
- Industry: Graduates
- Job Type: Contract
- Duration: 12 Months
- Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
- Salary: Market Related
- Closing Date: 2 July 2026
The internship programme is specifically designed for graduates who are seeking practical work experience in the ICT field. Participants will work alongside experienced professionals and gain valuable exposure to various aspects of information and communication technology within a professional environment.
Purpose of the Internship
The ICT Internship Programme aims to equip graduates with hands-on experience that will enhance their employability and prepare them for future career opportunities in the technology sector.
Interns will be exposed to a wide range of ICT functions, including technical support, software development, information systems management, cybersecurity, digital transformation initiatives, and project support activities.
The programme combines practical workplace learning with mentorship and coaching, enabling participants to develop both technical and professional skills.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for the internship programme:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be 35 years of age or younger at the time of application.
- Must possess a three-year tertiary qualification, either a Degree or Diploma, in a relevant ICT-related field.
- Must not have previously participated in any internship programme.
- Must be available to travel to the office daily.
- Experience in software development will serve as an added advantage.
Candidates who satisfy these requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
Key Learning and Development Areas
The internship programme offers exposure to various ICT functions and projects. Successful candidates will participate in learning activities designed to strengthen their technical knowledge and workplace competencies.
Technical Support and ICT Operations
Interns will assist with providing technical support to users while helping to maintain ICT systems and equipment. This experience will provide practical exposure to troubleshooting, system maintenance, and end-user support.
Working in this environment allows graduates to understand how technology infrastructure supports daily organisational operations and service delivery.
Information Systems and Data Management
Participants will gain exposure to information systems and data management processes. This includes learning about digital record-keeping practices, information handling procedures, and system administration activities.
The experience will provide valuable insight into how organisations manage and protect important information assets.
Cybersecurity and Information Security
Cybersecurity remains one of the most important areas within the ICT industry. During the internship, participants will support cybersecurity awareness initiatives while learning about ICT governance, compliance requirements, and information security practices.
This exposure will help interns understand the importance of protecting digital systems and information against cyber threats.
Software Development and Application Support
Graduates interested in software development will benefit from opportunities to participate in application support, software testing, system enhancements, and development activities.
Practical involvement in software projects can strengthen technical capabilities while exposing interns to industry-standard development practices and methodologies.
Problem Solving and Innovation
The programme encourages interns to apply critical thinking and innovative approaches to support ICT service delivery and operational efficiency.
Participants will have opportunities to identify challenges, propose solutions, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the organisation.
Research and Emerging Technologies
Technology continues to evolve rapidly, making research and innovation essential components of any ICT environment.
Interns will conduct research on emerging technologies and digital trends relevant to SANSA’s operational requirements. This exposure can help participants stay informed about new developments and advancements within the technology sector.
Digital Transformation and Process Improvement
Successful candidates will contribute ideas and recommendations aimed at supporting digital transformation initiatives and process optimisation efforts.
This experience provides valuable insight into how organisations leverage technology to improve efficiency, productivity, and service delivery.
ICT Project Support
Interns will assist with administrative and project support activities related to ICT programmes and projects.
Exposure to project environments helps graduates understand planning, coordination, reporting, and stakeholder engagement processes that are essential in professional ICT settings.
Professional Skills Development
In addition to technical training, participants will develop important workplace skills, including:
- Communication skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Customer service
- Professional conduct
- Time management
- Problem-solving abilities
- Workplace ethics
These transferable skills are highly valued by employers across various industries.
Benefits of Participating in the Programme
Internship programmes provide graduates with a valuable opportunity to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional employment.
Some benefits of participating in the SANSA ICT Internship Programme include:
- Practical workplace experience.
- Exposure to a professional ICT environment.
- Mentorship and coaching from experienced professionals.
- Development of technical and professional skills.
- Improved employability and career readiness.
- Networking opportunities within the science and technology sector.
- Experience working on meaningful projects and initiatives.
For many graduates, internship programmes serve as an important stepping stone toward long-term employment opportunities within the ICT industry.
Application Process
Interested candidates who meet the minimum requirements should prepare and submit the following:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Relevant supporting documents as required during the application process.
Applications must be submitted online through the official SANSA recruitment platform before the closing date.
Applicants are encouraged to ensure that all information provided is accurate, complete, and up to date.
Important Information for Applicants
Due to the large number of applications expected, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Candidates who do not receive feedback within four weeks after submitting their application should consider their application unsuccessful.
SANSA follows fair and non-discriminatory recruitment procedures and remains committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to candidates from designated groups in accordance with the Employment Equity Act and SANSA’s Employment Equity Plans.
The agency reserves the right to close or defer the vacancy at any stage of the recruitment process.
Successful candidates may be required to undergo various verification processes, including:
- Criminal record checks.
- Credit checks.
- Security clearance verification.
- Qualification verification.
- Citizenship verification.
- Competency assessments.
- Psychometric testing.
By submitting an application, candidates provide consent for SANSA to collect, process, and share personal information for recruitment, verification, assessment, and employment-related purposes.
Applications for the SANSA Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Internship Programme 2026 close on 2 July 2026.
Graduates who meet the requirements and wish to gain valuable experience within South Africa’s space science and technology sector are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline.