Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) Internships 2026/2027: Gain Experience in Various Fields
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is offering unemployed South African graduates the chance to gain valuable workplace experience through its Graduate Internship Programme for 2026/2027. This opportunity is based in Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, and offers a monthly stipend of R9 000. Applications are open to those who have completed relevant qualifications and are looking to start their careers.
Application Closing Date: 06 November 2026 at 16:00
Location: Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Programme Duration: 24 months
Stipend: R9 000 per month
Minimum Qualification: Diploma or Degree (depending on the internship)
Opportunity Type: Internship
About the SMU Graduate Internship Programme
The SMU Graduate Internship Programme is designed to provide practical workplace experience to unemployed South African graduates. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice, offering hands-on training across several key university departments. The programme focuses on developing skills in areas such as research administration, information technology, business development, finance, postgraduate administration, and laboratory operations.
About Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is a higher education institution dedicated to health sciences education and research. Located in Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, SMU plays a vital role in training healthcare professionals and contributing to advancements in medical knowledge. The university is committed to producing skilled graduates who can address the healthcare needs of South Africa.
Available Internship Opportunities
SMU has several internship positions available for graduates with specific qualifications. These roles offer exposure to different facets of university operations and research.
The following internships are available:
- Research Information Management System Intern
- Business Development Officer Intern
- Finance Intern – X2
- Postgraduate Administration Intern
- Laboratory Technician Intern
About the Research Information Management System Intern
This internship focuses on the administration and management of research outputs and systems. The successful candidate will support research reporting, system administration, and user support for research-related platforms. This role also involves assisting with human and animal research ethics systems.
Required Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related qualification.
About the Business Development Officer Intern
The Business Development Officer Intern will support various entrepreneurship and business incubation initiatives within the university. This includes assisting with entrepreneurship programmes, business incubation, enterprise development, and providing support to student entrepreneurs and emerging businesses.
Required Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Commerce, Business Management, Entrepreneurship, or a related field.
About the Finance Intern
SMU is looking to fill two Finance Intern positions. These roles involve assisting with the financial administration of the university. Responsibilities include expenditure monitoring and supporting financial reporting processes.
Required Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Finance, Accounting, Financial Management, or a related field.
About the Postgraduate Administration Intern
This internship offers experience in the administration of postgraduate studies. The intern will provide support for postgraduate administration, committee secretarial duties, external examiner appointments, and records management. Assistance with meeting administration is also part of the role.
Required Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Office Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
About the Laboratory Technician Intern
The Laboratory Technician Intern will support research and academic activities within the university’s chemistry department. Key duties include assisting with chemistry research, undergraduate practical sessions, laboratory operations, and ensuring laboratory safety and stock control.
Required Qualification: Honours Degree in Chemistry or Master’s Degree in Chemistry.
What the Internship Offers
Successful interns will gain significant practical experience and professional development opportunities. The programme is structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience.
Successful applicants will benefit from:
- Practical workplace experience in a university setting.
- Structured training and mentorship.
- A monthly stipend of R9 000.
- Exposure to various university departments and operations.
- Development of professional skills and industry knowledge.
- Contribution to research and academic support.
Programme Duration and Location
This internship programme is scheduled to run for a duration of 24 months. All internships are based at the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University campus in Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, within the Gauteng province of South Africa.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for these internship opportunities, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be unemployed.
- Have successfully completed the specific qualification required for the internship they are applying for.
- Submit a complete application before the closing date.
Competencies Required
Successful candidates will demonstrate a range of skills and personal attributes that will help them excel in their roles. These include:
- Good communication skills.
- Computer literacy.
- Interpersonal skills.
- Willingness to learn and adapt.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- Professional attitude and self-motivation.
- Attention to detail.
Who Should Apply?
These internships are ideal for recent graduates who are unemployed and eager to gain practical experience in their field of study. If you have completed a relevant Diploma or Degree and are looking to kick-start your career within a reputable academic institution, this programme offers a valuable opportunity to develop your professional skills and network.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents in PDF format:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A one-page motivational letter explaining your suitability for the selected internship.
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate.
- Certified academic record.
- Certified copy of your qualification certificate.
Ensure all documents are clear and legible. Image files and password-protected documents will not be accepted.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via email to [email protected].
Applicants must use the correct email subject line for the internship they are applying for. Replace Name Surname with your full name.
- Research Information Management System: MQA2026-RIMS | Name Surname
- Business Development Officer: MQA2026-CFERI | Name Surname
- Finance: MQA2026-FIN | Name Surname
- Postgraduate Administration: MQA2026-PGA | Name Surname
- Laboratory Technician: MQA2026-LAB | Name Surname
If you are applying for more than one position, you must submit a separate email application for each internship.
Important Application Information
Please note the following important details regarding the application process:
- Applications close strictly at 16:00 on 06 November 2026.
- Late applications will not be considered.
- Incomplete applications will also not be considered.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next steps.
- Shortlisted applicants must be available for interviews on dates communicated by SMU.
- If you do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 06 November 2026 at 16:00. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.
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