The City of Cape Town has announced its Training and Development Student Opportunities for 2026, targeting unemployed residents within the city who are seeking to gain practical workplace experience. This initiative spans multiple education levels, from Grade 10 learners through to university graduates and postgraduate students, offering structured experiential learning, work-integrated learning, and graduate internships.
About the Opportunity
This programme is part of the City of Cape Town’s ongoing efforts to combat youth unemployment by providing skills development and hands-on experience across various departments. The opportunities fall under the Corporate Services Directorate: Human Resources Department and include three key pathways:
- Skills Programme: For applicants with education levels from Grade 10 to N5 or equivalent qualifications, offering practical training through fixed-term contracts.
- Work Integrated Learning (WIL)/In-Service Training: Designed primarily for TVET N6 students who require workplace experience as part of their academic requirements.
- Graduate Internship Programme (GIP): For graduates holding diplomas, degrees, or postgraduate qualifications, aimed at workplace skills transfer and development.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must be unemployed, permanently residing within Cape Town’s jurisdiction, and meet the education requirements for the applicable programme route. Preference is given to local graduates and students enrolled in institutions within Cape Town. The programme is inclusive of a broad range of qualifications:
- Grade 10 and 11 learners (Skills Programme)
- Matric holders and N1–N5 qualification holders (Skills Programme)
- TVET N6 students requiring WIL (WIL/In-Service Training)
- Holders of National Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, BTech, Degrees, Honours, Master’s, and PhDs (Graduate Internship Programme)
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare certified copies of their South African ID or proof of citizenship, Matric certificate or statement of results (when applicable), and their highest qualification certificate. WIL applicants specifically need a letter from their educational institution requesting WIL or In-Service Training, along with their academic transcript.
Remuneration and Employment Conditions
Compensation ranges from R38.40 to R60.36 per hour, depending on the route and specific role. It is important to understand that while the programme provides valuable workplace exposure, it does not guarantee permanent employment within the City of Cape Town. Participants must make themselves available for rostered work and are not permitted to hold other employment or operate a private business without written consent from the City Manager.
Location and Duration
All opportunities are based within the City of Cape Town municipality area. The contracts are fixed-term, and the Skills Programme typically has quarterly intakes throughout the year.
Closing Date
Applications close on 30 September 2026. Early submission is advised to avoid last-minute technical issues and to ensure all required documentation is included.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online through the City of Cape Town’s official e-Recruitment system. Applicants need to create an e-Services Account on the City’s website before applying. The City specifically advises against using smartphones for this process due to compatibility issues; a computer is required. For those without access to a computer, City libraries offer Smart Cape computers where applicants can apply after becoming library members with valid ID and proof of residence.
Applications can be made via the City of Cape Town e-Recruitment system.
Important Notes Before Applying
- Ensure you apply for the programme corresponding with your highest qualification and current educational needs.
- Read all conditions carefully; enrolment in studies that coincide with the internship period is generally not allowed, except for WIL and postgraduate students.
- Successful completion of the programme does not automatically guarantee employment.
