Your Complete Guide to Entering the Kagiso Trust Training Programme 2025/2026: What You Need to Know

If you’re a young graduate in South Africa looking to take your first meaningful step into the working world, the Kagiso Trust Training Programme 2025/2026 may be your perfect starting point. With a strong commitment to social development, education, and empowerment, Kagiso Trust offers structured internships that equip graduates with real-world experience and hands-on training across diverse sectors.

Why the Kagiso Trust Training Programme Matters

Kagiso Trust is not just another development NGO. With over three decades of impact in South Africa, the Trust is renowned for creating platforms that drive education reform, socio-economic development, and policy engagement. Their internship programme reflects these values, aiming to uplift unemployed youth aged 18 to 35 by providing 12 months of paid, structured work-based training.

Whether you’re interested in community development, research, finance, or communications, there’s likely a position that matches your field of study and career goals.

General Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Kagiso Trust Internship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen between 18 and 35 years old
• Hold a National Diploma or Degree in the field relevant to the internship applied for
• Be currently unemployed
• Be willing to commit to a 12-month full-time internship
• Have a desire to gain work experience and develop professional skills

Available Internship Opportunities for 2025 / 2026

Each internship comes with specific academic and skill requirements. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide which opportunity best suits your background:

1. Socio-Economic Development Intern

Reference: SED2025JHB
Required Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Agricultural Economics or Agricultural Studies
Key Responsibilities:

• Support impact fund management
• Assist in socio-economic programme design
• Analyze SMME policy and business models
• Engage with entrepreneurs and stakeholders

2. Programme Management & Research Intern

Reference: PMR2024JHB
Required Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Project Management, Development Studies, or Social Sciences
Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct field and desktop research
• Draft programme documents and reports
• Monitor trends affecting Kagiso Trust initiatives
• Support digital transformation of project reporting

3. Policy Development Intern

Reference: PD2025JHB
Required Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Political Science, Economics, Development Policy, or related fields
Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor legislative developments
• Draft policy documents
• Build stakeholder networks
• Assist with advocacy events

4. Local Government Support Intern

Reference: LGS2025JHB
Required Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Project Management
Key Responsibilities:

• Work on data collection and revenue management
• Engage with municipalities and stakeholders
• Provide administrative support for programme rollouts

5. Information Technology Intern

Reference: ICT2025JHB
Required Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Computer Science, IT, or Systems Management
Key Responsibilities:

• Support ICT end-user training
• Assist with database and system performance monitoring
• Help with procurement and troubleshooting

6. Human Resources Intern

Reference: HR2025JHB
Required Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Human Resources
Key Responsibilities:

• Support HR functions including recruitment, induction, and training
• Maintain employee files and data systems
• Assist in planning and execution of performance reviews

7. Finance Intern

Reference: FIN2025JHB
Required Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Finance or Accounting
Key Responsibilities:

• Capture transactions and manage accounts payable/receivable
• Participate in audits and asset management
• Assist in internal risk assessment

8. Executive Office Intern

Reference: EO2025JHB
Required Qualification: Diploma/Degree in any field
Key Responsibilities:

• Schedule meetings, manage diaries, and plan logistics
• Prepare reports and presentation materials
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders

9. Education Researcher Intern

Reference: EDU2025JHB
Required Qualification: Diploma/Degree (Honours preferred)
Key Responsibilities:

• Research and monitor education policy
• Manage data and learning systems
• Document Kagiso Trust’s Education Development Model

10. Civil Society Support Programmes Intern

Reference: CSS2025JHB
Required Qualification: Grade 12 (Diploma or Degree advantageous)
Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in planning and executing community events
• Engage with NGOs and support stakeholder networking
• Handle admin and logistical coordination

11. Company Secretariat & Legal Intern

Reference: CSL2025JHB
Required Qualification: Chartered Governance Certificate or equivalent
Key Responsibilities:

• Organise board meetings and maintain compliance records
• Draft resolutions and update governance documents
• Support legal correspondence and policy reviews

12. Communications and Marketing Intern

Reference: CM2025JHB
Required Qualification: Diploma/Degree in Marketing, Journalism, PR, or related
Key Responsibilities:

• Manage digital content and social media
• Assist with events, copywriting, and graphic design
• Coordinate internal and external communication efforts

Key Skills and Competencies Kagiso Trust Looks For

Aside from academic credentials, successful candidates typically exhibit:

• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Keen attention to detail
• Proficiency in basic computer applications (MS Office)
• Willingness to travel and adapt quickly
• High ethical standards and confidentiality

How to Apply for the 2025 / 2026 Internship

To apply, follow these simple steps:

Required Documents:

• Certified Grade 12/NQF 4 level certificates.
• Certified copy of your ID.
• Certified copy of Academic Transcript.
• Your CV and motivational letter.

Instruction to Applicants:

• Indicate the Reference Number for the internship you are applying for on the subject line.
• Submit a short CV and motivational letter as to why your application should be considered with a minimum of 3 pages, applications with no academic transcript will not be considered
• Applicants must be unemployed, was never employed in the field of the post and never participated in an internship programme in the relevant field of the post previously.
• The applicant must not have previously served as an intern and did not disclose that info and it is discovered later, the applicant will be disqualified.

Applications can be forwarded to the following mail address: recruitment@kagiso.co.za

Note: Include the correct Reference Number in the subject line of your email to ensure your application is directed to the right department.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Tailor your cover letter for each internship—generic applications are less effective.
• Highlight your passion for development and community work.
• Mention any volunteer work, part-time jobs, or research relevant to the role.
• Proofread your documents for grammar and clarity before submitting.
• Apply early—positions may fill before the deadline due to high demand.

What Happens After You Apply?

If shortlisted, you will be invited for one or more of the following:

• Online or in-person interview
• Skills assessment
• Reference checks

Final selections are made based on a combination of academic background, demonstrated skills, and alignment with Kagiso Trust’s values.

In Conclusion

The Kagiso Trust Internship Programme offers more than just work experience—it’s a stepping stone into a career with purpose. Whether you’re passionate about education, governance, technology, or social justice, this programme gives you the tools to grow professionally while contributing to meaningful change in South African communities.

Don’t miss this opportunity to start your career on a strong and impactful note. Make sure to research the position that suits you best, prepare a standout application, and apply within the given timelines.

For more career guidance, tips for graduates, and updates on South African internship programmes, stay tuned to our blog. Wishing you success on your journey to becoming a change-maker!