The University of Johannesburg invites qualified graduates to apply for the AI Hub Experiential Learner Internship within the Johannesburg Business School.
Position: AI Hub Intern (Experiential Learner)
Faculty/Division: Johannesburg Business School – Centre for Entrepreneurship
Contract Type: Temporary (4 Months)
Location: University of Johannesburg, South Africa
Closing Date: 06 March 2026
Commencement Date: 16 March 2026
This internship provides an opportunity for graduates to gain hands-on experience in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Digital Innovation.
About the UJ AI Hub
The UJ AI Hub is an innovation and research centre focused on advancing:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Data Science
- Cybersecurity
- Emerging digital technologies
The hub works to strengthen South Africa’s digital innovation ecosystem through research, training, and collaboration with industry partners.
Through initiatives such as the Google.org Cybersecurity Seminars Programme, the hub empowers students and researchers with practical skills needed for the future digital economy.
Job Purpose
The Experiential Learner role is designed to provide practical experience while supporting ongoing AI Hub research and innovation projects.
The intern will assist with:
- Artificial intelligence prototype development
- Data analysis and research support
- Machine learning and cybersecurity initiatives
- Documentation and project management activities
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Develop, test and troubleshoot AI-driven prototypes
- Participate in research discussions and innovation sessions
- Assist with research experiments and testing activities
- Conduct coding tasks and system debugging
- Train machine learning models using frameworks such as TensorFlow
- Prepare research reports, documentation and summaries
- Contribute to presentations and stakeholder project updates
The role requires collaboration with researchers, developers and project teams.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have a Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 7) in a computing-related field such as:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Informatics
- Software Engineering
- Data Science
- Information Systems
- Artificial Intelligence or Machine Learning
- Cybersecurity
- Robotics
Equivalent qualifications in digital technology fields will also be considered.
Knowledge Requirements
Candidates should demonstrate knowledge in:
- Programming fundamentals and algorithms
- Databases and data analysis
- Artificial intelligence or machine learning concepts
- Cybersecurity principles
Programming tools may include:
- Python
- SQL
- R
Other technical exposure may include:
- TensorFlow or similar machine learning frameworks
- Data visualisation tools
- Software development environments
Understanding ethical data handling and information security is also required.
Experience Requirements
This is an entry-level experiential learning position.
No formal work experience is required.
However, the following experience will be advantageous:
- Participation in hackathons or coding competitions
- Academic or personal software development projects
- Experience using AI tools or cybersecurity platforms
- Exposure to research projects or prototyping
Competencies and Personal Attributes
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong communication skills
- Team collaboration abilities
- Logical problem-solving skills
- Curiosity and willingness to learn new technologies
- Good time management
- Professional conduct and reliability
- Ability to apply feedback and improve performance
Recommended Qualification
An NQF Level 8 qualification (Honours Degree) will be advantageous but is not mandatory.
How to Apply
Applicants must email the following documents:
- Certified copies of highest qualifications
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Updated CV
Email applications to:
motlatsor@uj.ac.za
Enquiries
Job Content Enquiries:
Ms Carol Keshy
Email: carolk@uj.ac.za
Remuneration and Benefits Enquiries:
Mrs Chandni Hira-Fakir
Email: chandnih@uj.ac.za
Important Notes
- The University of Johannesburg supports employment equity and inclusion, especially for historically disadvantaged groups and persons with disabilities.
- The university reserves the right not to make an appointment.
- If you do not receive feedback within 21 weeks after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.