National Empowerment Fund (NEF) invites South African unemployed graduates to apply for the Graduate Programme 2026.
Internship Application Closing Date: 17 April 2026
Internship Location: South Africa (Multiple Provinces)
About the NEF Graduate Programme 2026
The National Empowerment Fund (NEF), in partnership with the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA), is offering a 12-month Graduate Placement Programme.
This programme is designed to equip graduates with:
- Practical workplace experience
- Industry-relevant skills
- Exposure to the Retail and Wholesale sector
- Career development opportunities
Graduates will work in a fast-paced environment and gain hands-on experience while learning from industry professionals.
Internship Locations
Successful candidates will be placed in the following provinces:
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Mpumalanga
- Free State (QwaQwa and Bloemfontein)
- Gauteng
- Limpopo
- Western Cape
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have a:
- Diploma or Degree in one of the following fields:
- Business Management
- Marketing Management
- Financial Management
- Human Resource Management
- Supply Chain Management / Logistics
- Retail Business Management
- Wholesale and Retail Operations
- Public Management / Public Administration
- Office Administration
- Entrepreneurship
- Or any other relevant qualification
Additional Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be currently unemployed
- Not be registered in any learnership or graduate programme
- Have no prior work experience
- Be a South African citizen
- Have computer literacy
Personal Attributes
The ideal candidate should demonstrate:
- Willingness to learn and grow professionally
- Good communication skills (verbal and written)
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work in a team
- Professionalism and accountability
- Positive attitude
Why You Should Apply
This programme offers:
- Real workplace experience
- Exposure to the FMCG, retail, and wholesale industries
- Skills development and mentorship
- Improved employability after completion
How to Apply
Click here to apply for National Empowerment Fund (NEF) Graduate Programme 2026: