Hey future go-getter! Are you a young South African graduate or job seeker ready to dive into the real world and gain some incredible work experience? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up some fantastic “work experience bursaries” (a.k.a. internships and YES programmes) from leading organisations for the 2025 / 2026 intake. This is your golden ticket to kickstart your career and gain invaluable skills. But hurry, these opportunities close super soon!
These bursaries are all about giving you a head start in your professional journey. They’re designed to provide unemployed South African youth and recent graduates with practical, hands-on experience in various industries. Think of it as a stepping stone, where you get to apply your academic knowledge in a real work environment, build your professional network, and develop essential skills that employers are looking for. While they might be called “internships” or “YES Programmes” officially, Bursaries Room brings them to you as a form of “bursary” to help fund your foundational career experience.
Who Can Apply?
Generally, these work experience bursaries are open to unemployed South African youth and recent graduates (typically aged 18-35) who are eager to learn and grow. Specific qualifications will vary depending on the programme and the organisation. For instance, some might require a specific degree or diploma in fields like Human Resources, Supply Chain Management, or Administration. Always check the individual application requirements carefully for each opportunity to ensure you meet the criteria!
What Does It Cover?
These exciting work experience bursaries offer a range of benefits to help you launch your career:
- Hands-on Professional Experience: Get real-world exposure in your chosen field or a related industry.
- Skill Development: Learn valuable workplace skills, from technical expertise to essential soft skills like communication and teamwork.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry professionals and build your professional circle.
- Career Kickstart: Gain the experience often needed to secure permanent employment in the future.
- Potential Stipend: Some programmes, like the Senqu Municipality Human Resources Bursary, offer a monthly stipend (e.g., R6,250) to help cover living costs during your programme.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump on these amazing opportunities? The application process typically involves submitting your CV, academic records, and sometimes a cover letter. Make sure your documents are updated and tailored to each specific programme. Don’t wait until the last minute – deadlines are approaching fast!
Here are the fantastic work experience bursaries currently open for applications:
Eskom YES Programme Bursary 2025 / 2026: Eskom invites unemployed South African youth to apply for its Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme. This is a brilliant chance to gain experience with one of South Africa’s largest state-owned enterprises.
- Closing Date: 15 – 16 October 2025
- Locations: Sunninghill (Gauteng) & Bellville (Western Cape), South Africa
Click here to apply for the Eskom YES Programme Bursary 2025 / 2026
MANCOSA Supply Chain Bursary 2025: Are you passionate about supply chain management? MANCOSA (PTY) LTD is looking for driven students for their Supply Chain Programme (Talent 101). A perfect start for your career in logistics!
- Closing Date: 16 October 2025
- Location: Midrand, Gauteng, South Africa
Click here to apply for the MANCOSA Supply Chain Bursary 2025
Senqu Municipality Human Resources Bursary 2025 / 2026: Senqu Local Municipality is offering a 36-month programme in Human Resources Management to qualified unemployed graduates. This bursary comes with a great stipend to support you!
- Stipend: R6,250 per month
- Closing Date: 17 October 2025 at 12:00
- Location: Lady Grey, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Click here to apply for the Senqu Municipality Human Resources Bursary 2025 / 2026
Power Construction Admin Bursary 2025: Get hands-on administrative experience in the dynamic construction and building industry with Power Construction (Pty) Ltd. A solid foundation for any administrative career!
- Closing Date: 17 October 2025
- Location: Blackheath, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Click here to apply for the Power Construction Admin Bursary 2025
Health Systems Trust (HST) YES Bursary 2025: Health Systems Trust (HST) invites young South Africans (18–35) to join their Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme. Gain practical work experience in health administration and make a difference!
- Closing Date: 17 October 2025 at 16:30
- Locations: uMgungundlovu District (KwaZulu-Natal) & HST Head Office, 1 Maryvale Road, Westville, Durban
Click here to apply for the Health Systems Trust (HST) YES Bursary 2025
If any of these amazing work experience bursaries sound like the perfect fit for you, don’t wait — apply now and explore even more incredible bursary opportunities right here on Bursaries Room! Your future starts today!
