Opportunity awaits unemployed graduates who wish to explore different fields, as they will meet and work alongside great minds at the Rhodes University internship program 2026.
This will be the best thing to happen to many graduates as it will be a dream come through and a stepping stone to greatness. The Rhodes University internship program is designed to help graduates.
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Details of Rhodes University Internship 2026
Internship Location: Grahamstown, Eastern Cape
Internship Closing Date: 11 March 2026
Internship: Presidential Youth Employment Initiative Programme
Guidelines for graduate interns as per the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI) programme
Rhodes University is pleased to announce that recruitment for Interns in the specified disciplines of the Higher Education Employment Initiative will be available.
The Department of Higher Education and Training has allocated 150 unemployed university graduates to Rhodes University as part of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI)-Higher Youth between the ages of 18 and 35, who are currently unemployed, not studying full-time, nor receiving any form of government grant (including NSFAS). Candidates selected for placement will have an opportunity to receive on-the-job training on various skills that will equip them for future employment opportunities. Please note that the subjects are a guideline and need to be read together with the applicability of the work area. The degree and the subjects required are outlined in the document contained in this link:
Degree and Subjects Required (right click and select open in new tab)
Application Form (right click and select open in new tab)
To qualify for an Internship placement, you must have completed your qualification (Degree) and provide proof. To work in the university environment, you must have an excellent ability to work with people and within groups, have good communication skills, be a good listener, and be interested in serving the university community. To reiterate, will the following requirements be applicable:
· Only interns who successfully obtained a degree at a University would be considered. This includes all degrees as well as a post-doctorate.
· Applicants should be South African citizens, unemployed and between the ages of 18-35.
· Interns will be paid a monthly stipend of R5 000.00 per month.
· Only interns residing in Makhanda will be considered.
· The internship will be for six months.
· It is expected that interns will be deployed full-time to support the transfer of work-related skills and competencies during the intern period. This indicates a full working day over the six months.
How to apply
Click here to apply online for Rhodes University: PYEI Internships 2026
To apply for the Internship opportunity, please complete the application form and attach a comprehensive CV. The closing date for applications is 4 March 2026, and the application form needs to be forwarded to PYEIinterns@ru.ac.za
Should you receive notice that you have been selected for shortlisting and invited for an interview, you will be required to prepare the following documents:
- Testimonials (x 2)
- Police clearance certificates / Affidavit/Declaration by the applicant stating they have no criminal record while awaiting the Police clearance (only if required in line with the university policy requirements
- Certified qualifications such as Matric and university qualifications, or confirmation of completion.
- Certified copy of South African identity document (this opportunity is only available to South African Citizens and permanent residents).
- Covid vaccination certificate.
The starting date of the internship will be either April, May or June and will be discussed during the interview. Please note that the recruitment and placement of Graduate Interns will be done in line with all Rhodes University’s policies and protocols. For more information, please contact: Nomaxabiso Yantolo
FAQs
What is the Rhodes University PYEI Internship Programme 2026?
The Rhodes University PYEI (Presidential Youth Employment Initiative) Internship Programme 2026 is a youth-focused employment opportunity designed to equip South African graduates with practical work experience in different university departments. It provides hands-on training, mentorship, and skill development to improve employability. Interns are placed in administrative, research, ICT, finance, library, technical support, and academic support roles depending on departmental needs.
Who is eligible to apply for the PYEI Internships at Rhodes University in 2026?
To qualify for the 2026 PYEI internships, applicants must:
Be South African citizens between 18–35 years old.
Be unemployed at the time of application.
Hold a relevant diploma, degree, or N6 certificate depending on the role.
Not be enrolled in full-time studies.
Have good communication, teamwork, and basic computer skills.
Some positions may require additional specialized qualifications or experience, which will be stated in the advertisement.
How can I apply for the Rhodes University PYEI Internships 2026 and what documents are required?
Applications are submitted online through the official Rhodes University vacancies portal. Applicants must upload:
A recent CV
Certified copies of ID and academic qualifications
A cover letter indicating the internship position applied for
Any additional documents requested for specific roles
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Applicants are advised to check the Rhodes University website regularly for the opening and closing dates for 2026.