Sefako Makgatho University (SMU) Internships and Apprenticeships 2026: Built Environment Opportunities

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) is offering 38 opportunities in its Built Environment Department for 2026. This programme is for unemployed South African youth looking to gain workplace experience in fields like engineering, construction, and artisan trades. The positions are for internships, apprenticeships, and Work Integrated Learning (WIL).

Application Closing Date: 18 September 2026

Location: Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Gauteng, South Africa

Programme Duration: 24 months

Stipend: Not specified

Minimum Qualification: Varies by position (Diploma, BEng, N6, etc.)

Opportunity Type: Internship, Apprenticeship, Work Integrated Learning

About the SMU Built Environment Programme 2026

The DHET-SMU Apprenticeship Recruitment Programme 2026 aims to provide valuable workplace learning. It covers a range of disciplines within the built environment. This programme is designed to help new entrants gain practical skills and knowledge.

Successful candidates will be part of a 24-month contract. They will work within the university environment, contributing to various projects. The programme focuses on developing skills in engineering, construction, artisan trades, environmental management, and related areas.

About Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University is a public university in South Africa. It is dedicated to health sciences education and research. The university is committed to producing skilled professionals who can contribute to the health sector and beyond.

The university’s Built Environment Department manages and maintains its infrastructure. This department offers opportunities for individuals to gain experience in managing and developing the physical campus.

Available SMU Opportunities

SMU has 38 opportunities available across various fields within the Built Environment Department. These include professional roles and technical or artisan trades.

• Construction Management
• Architect
• Quantity Surveyor
• Civil Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer / HVAC
• Plumbing
• Welding / Boilermaking
• Carpentry
• HVAC Artisan / Refrigeration Tradesperson
• Health and Safety
• Horticulturist
• Environmental Officer
• Irrigation Specialist / Agricultural Engineer

What the Programme Offers

This programme offers successful candidates a chance to gain significant practical experience. Participants will work on real projects within the university.

The opportunities include:

• Workplace experience in the built environment sector.
• Structured training and development.
• Exposure to professional engineering, construction, and artisan environments.
• The chance to contribute to departmental initiatives and university development.
• Development of practical skills and professional competencies.

Programme Duration and Location

The programme has a duration of 24 months. All opportunities are based at the Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University campus in Gauteng, South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

The specific minimum requirements vary depending on the position. Generally, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be a new entrant to a workplace learning programme.
• Must not have previously worked or held an internship position.
• Possess the required qualification for the specific role, such as:
• Diploma, BEng or higher in Construction Science, Construction Management or Building Sciences (for Construction Management).
• Diploma, BEng or higher in Architectural Studies (for Architect).
• Diploma, BEng or higher in Construction Economics, Quantity Surveying or Building Sciences (for Quantity Surveyor).
• Civil Engineering N6, Diploma, BEng or higher (for Civil Engineer).
• Electrical Engineering N6, Diploma, BEng or higher (for Electrical Engineer).
• Mechanical Engineering N6, Diploma, BEng or higher (for Mechanical Engineer / HVAC).
• N6, National Diploma or higher (for Plumbing, Welding/Boilermaking, Carpentry, HVAC Artisan/Refrigeration).
• Occupational Health and Safety, NEBOSH Level 6 or relevant qualification (for Health and Safety).
• Diploma in Horticulture, Landscape Management or related technology qualification (for Horticulturist).
• Diploma, BTech or BSc in Environmental Sciences, Environmental Management or Environmental Engineering (for Environmental Officer).
• Diploma/Degree in Agricultural Engineering, NQF Level 6 or National Certificate in Landscape Irrigation / Irrigation Installation and Management (for Irrigation Specialist / Agricultural Engineer).

Skills and Competencies Required

SMU is looking for candidates who show strong personal and professional attributes. These include:

• Good time management skills.
• Client focus and results orientation.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Good report-writing abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• High attention to detail.
• A willingness to learn and adapt to new environments.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Who Should Apply?

This programme is ideal for unemployed South African youth who are new to the workplace. It is suited for individuals with the relevant qualifications who want to gain practical experience in the built environment. If you are eager to learn, adaptable, and ready to contribute to a university’s infrastructure development, this opportunity could be for you.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• A comprehensive CV.
• Certified copies of all relevant qualifications.
• Contact details for three referees.
• A copy of your South African ID.

How to Apply for SMU Internships and Apprenticeships 2026

Applications must be submitted via email. Ensure you have all the required documents ready before sending your application.

Interested applicants should email their comprehensive CV, certified copies of qualifications, and three referee contact details to:

[email protected]

Applications must be addressed for the attention of Mr K Mothabela. It is crucial to clearly quote the correct reference number for the position you are applying for in your email subject line. For example, use “64/2026/KM/Intern” for Electrical Engineering.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment. Late applications may not be considered. Ensure all required documents are submitted and that the correct reference number is used. Incomplete applications may lead to disqualification.

Closing Date

The application closing date for these opportunities is 18 September 2026 at 16:00. Please ensure your application is submitted on time.

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