Project 20K Graduate Internship Applications 2025 - 2027

Project 20K Graduate Internship Applications Now Open

So, you’ve probably heard people talking about the Project 20K Graduate Internship Programme, right? Well, let’s break it down in simple terms — it’s a national programme started by the Department of Employment and Labour to help unemployed graduates gain real work experience.

In my experience, one of the biggest challenges most young people face after graduating is that old saying — “you can’t get a job without experience, but you can’t get experience without a job.” That’s exactly what Project 20K is trying to fix.

What the Project 20k Graduate Programme Is All About

Project 20K is a large-scale government initiative that aims to place 20,000 young South Africans into paid internships across the country. These placements are meant to give graduates hands-on experience in their field of study, help them build professional networks, and basically prepare them for full-time employment later on.

Research shows that internships like this play a big role in improving employability. Many graduates who complete similar programmes often end up being absorbed by the same organizations or find better opportunities elsewhere. So, it’s not just a short-term job — it’s a smart career move.

How Long It Runs and What You’ll Earn

The graduate internship runs for 24 months — that’s two full years of real workplace training. During this time, interns receive a monthly stipend of around R7,860 to help cover their basic expenses.

If you have time, you may also have a look at Fasset Outstanding Study Debt Repayment Programme 2026

Now, it might not sound like a lot, but remember, this isn’t volunteer work. You’re learning, gaining experience, and getting paid while doing it. Studies confirm that graduates who’ve gone through structured internships like this tend to find jobs faster than those who haven’t.

Project 20k Internship Requirements: Who Can Apply?

Let’s talk about who this programme is for. You can apply if:

• You’re a South African citizen.
• You’re unemployed and have never taken part in an internship before.
• You have a qualification — a diploma or degree — from a recognised institution.
• You’re between 18 and 35 years old.
• You’re available for the full two years and willing to learn.
  
  

We observed that the programme also encourages applications from sa youth living with disabilities, which is a great step toward inclusivity.

Have a look at: Top Seta Accredited Learnership Providers 2025

The Different Career Fields

Although the programme covers a wide range of careers, some of the common fields include:

• Human Resources and Administration
• Finance and Auditing
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Public Management and Office Support
• Business and Project Management
• IT and Digital Services
  
  

Basically, no matter what you studied, there’s probably a spot for you somewhere in this project.

How to Apply for Project 20K Graduate Internship?

So, here’s the part most people want to know — how to actually get in.

Applications are done online through the SAYouth.mobi platform. It’s simple:

1. Visit www.sayouth.mobi
2. Register or log in to your account.
3. Search for “Project 20K Internship” in the opportunities list.
4. Select your province and the career stream that fits your qualification.
5. Fill in your details and submit your documents — your ID, qualification, and academic record (certified copies).

Once you’ve submitted, you’ll be contacted if you’re shortlisted for placement

• Apply here: Project 20k Graduate Internship Programme
• Advert: Project 20K Graduate Internship (PDF)

Also apply for:

• Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme 2026
• PSIRA Bursary 2026 Applications Now Open

Conclusion:

The Department of Employment and Labour launched Project 20K to give young people a fair start — especially those who’ve finished studying but are still struggling to find work.

In my experience, doing an internship like this gives you more than just a salary. It gives you skills, confidence, and experience that can completely change your career path.