Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is offering 38 apprenticeship, internship, and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) positions within its Built Environment Department for the year 2026. These positions provide practical workplace experience over 24 months across multiple disciplines linked to construction, engineering, architecture, and related trades.
About the Programme
The DHET-SMU Apprenticeship Recruitment Programme is designed to give young South African graduates and qualified individuals hands-on exposure in their fields. It covers a broad spectrum of specialties including construction management, architecture, quantity surveying, civil and electrical engineering, mechanical engineering (including HVAC), plumbing, welding, carpentry, refrigeration, occupational health and safety, horticulture, environmental management, and agricultural engineering.
Participants will support SMU’s Built Environment projects while gaining essential workplace competencies in a university environment. This helps improve employability by bridging the gap between academic qualifications and practical application.
Who Can Apply
The programme is open exclusively to South African citizens who are new to workplace experiential learning and have never previously held an internship or similar position. It particularly suits:
- Young professionals with N6 certificates, National Diplomas, or engineering/build environment degrees
- Graduates from TVET colleges, universities, and universities of technology
- Aspiring artisans and tradespersons seeking practical experience
- Unemployed graduates requiring their first internship roles
Requirements
- Relevant academic qualification pertaining to the applied discipline (ranging from N6 to Diploma, BEng or higher)
- No prior participation in internship or apprenticeship programmes
- Ability to work independently and as part of multidisciplinary teams
- Basic competencies such as time management, client focus, communication skills, report writing, stress tolerance, and attention to detail
Available Positions
The 38 opportunities are distributed across 13 key occupational areas:
- Construction Management (3 posts)
- Architect (3 posts)
- Quantity Surveyor (2 posts)
- Civil Engineer (3 posts)
- Electrical Engineer (5 posts)
- Mechanical Engineer/HVAC (4 posts)
- Plumbing (4 posts)
- Welding/Boilermaking (3 posts)
- Carpentry (3 posts)
- HVAC Artisan/Refrigeration Tradesperson (3 posts)
- Health and Safety (2 posts)
- Horticulturist (2 posts)
- Environmental Officer (2 posts)
- Irrigation Specialist/Agricultural Engineer (1 post)
Location and Duration
The programmes take place within the Built Environment Department at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University. Each appointment lasts 24 months, providing immersive and continuous workplace learning.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted by email to [email protected] and addressed to Mr K Mothabela. Each application must include:
- A detailed curriculum vitae
- Certified copies of all relevant qualifications
- Contact details of three referees
Applicants must clearly state the reference number for the position they are applying for (e.g., 64/2026/KM/Intern for Electrical Engineering). Submitting a generic application without a clear reference will delay processing.
Applications submitted through employment agencies will not be considered.
Closing Date
The deadline for submissions is 18 September 2026 at 16:00. Late applications will not be accepted.
Additional Information
Applicants with qualifications from outside South Africa are responsible for having their credentials evaluated by SAQA prior to applying.
Successful candidates will actively participate in departmental projects, meetings, training workshops, and administrative duties aligned with their field.
For individuals coming from TVET backgrounds or interested in artisan development, the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) provides relevant sector certifications and pathways.
Where to Find Further Resources
To better understand career pathways and educational routes related to this programme, candidates can use online explorers for careers, TVET colleges, universities, and SETA platforms. These tools assist in aligning qualifications and skills development with labour market demands.
How to Apply
Send your application documents via email to [email protected], referencing the specific vacancy number. Make sure your package contains all required documents listed above.
For questions related to conditions of service, candidates can contact (012) 521-4433. Use this line for legitimate enquiries only.
Further details and the full list of opportunities can be referenced in the official vacancy notice available through the application document.
