The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) is once again opening doors for graduates through its Internship Programme 2025/2026. This initiative is designed to help unemployed South African graduates gain valuable workplace experience in the mining and minerals sector, while also receiving a generous stipend and professional mentorship.
If you’ve been searching for an opportunity to turn your qualifications into real skills, this programme might be the perfect stepping stone.
About MQA Internships 2025/2026
What the MQA Internship is All About
The MQA Internship Programme is not just a training plan — it’s a structured two-year journey where graduates learn, work, and prepare for their future careers.
- Duration: 24 months (2 years)
- Monthly Stipend: R9,306.18
- Closing Date: 23 September 2025
- Location: Across different MQA offices in South Africa
This internship bridges the gap between education and employment, giving graduates practical exposure in critical fields.
Who Can Apply?
The MQA has set clear requirements to ensure that the right candidates benefit from this opportunity.
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be unemployed graduates
- Must have never taken part in any internship programme (MQA-funded or company-funded)
- Preference will be given to:
- Persons with disabilities
- Coloured, Indian, and White applicants (as per the MQA Employment Equity Plan)
In short, this programme is meant for fresh graduates who are ready to gain first-time work experience.
Internship Opportunities and Roles
The MQA Internship Programme 2025/2026 offers placements in different units. Each role has its own learning outcomes and skill focus areas.
Quality Assurance Intern
This role ensures that training and workplace standards meet MQA requirements.
- Required Qualification: National Diploma in HR Development/Management or Administration (NQF 6). A Bachelor’s degree is an added advantage.
- Exposure Areas:
- Quality assurance processes
- Workplace approvals and compliance
- Learner certification systems
- Document control and reporting
Skills Development & Research Intern
Perfect for graduates who enjoy research, analysis, and working with training data.
- Required Qualification: Diploma in Social Sciences, Commerce, or HR with Economics/Statistics. A Bachelor’s degree is preferred.
- Exposure Areas:
- Workplace Skills Plans (WSPs) & Annual Training Reports (ATRs)
- Registration as a Skills Development Facilitator
- Primary and secondary research
- Report writing and stakeholder engagement
Communication Intern
This role focuses on media, events, and brand management within the MQA.
- Required Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Communications
- Exposure Areas:
- Implementing communication strategies
- Organising events and publications
- Managing social media, intranet, and website content
- Customer service and database management
Learning Programmes & Strategic Projects Intern
For those interested in administration and project management in the learning sector.
- Required Qualification: Diploma in HR, Business Management, Public Management, or Project Management
- Exposure Areas:
- Administration of learning programme projects
- Registering agreements and maintaining records
- Handling customer queries
- Organising events and controlling documentation
Stipend and Financial Support
One of the best parts of this internship is the financial support offered by MQA.
- Monthly Stipend: R9,306.18 paid directly to interns
- Employer Grant: R340,000 per intern (over 24 months) paid to host companies
- Additional Coverage:
- Travel and accommodation (if required)
- UIF contributions
- Medical cover
- Personal protective clothing
- Short training courses to boost employability
This means interns not only get paid fairly but also receive extra support to make the experience smooth.
How to Apply
Applying for the MQA Internships 2025/2026 is simple but requires attention to detail.
- Complete the MQA Vacancy Application Form
- Prepare an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Attach certified copies of your qualifications
- Attach a certified copy of your South African ID
- Submit everything via email to: internsrecruitment@mqa.org.za
Important Notes:
- Late applications will not be accepted
- If you don’t hear back within 4 weeks after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful
Why This Internship Matters
The Mining Qualifications Authority plays a crucial role in developing skills for South Africa’s mining industry. By joining this internship, graduates get:
- Hands-on experience with industry experts
- Mentorship and coaching
- Networking opportunities with top organisations
- A strong CV for future employment
This isn’t just an internship — it’s a career-building opportunity.
Conclusion
The Mining Qualifications Authority Internships 2025/2026 offer more than just a stipend. They provide a platform to grow, learn, and secure your future in one of South Africa’s most important industries.