Bank SETA and ETDP SETA Internship Programme 2025: Skills Development for South African Graduates

Apply for the 2025 Bank SETA and ETDP SETA Internship Programme. Gain practical experience in banking and education sectors.
Bank SETA (Banking Sector Education and Training Authority) has joined hands with ETDP SETA (Education, Training and Development Practices SETA) to offer a transformative internship opportunity for young South Africans. This partnership creates a unique platform that blends digital banking knowledge with education and training sector skills, supporting national development goals and youth employability.
Purpose of the Internship Programme
The core aim of this collaboration is to:
- Address critical skills shortages in both the finance and education sectors.
- Equip unemployed graduates with real-world, work-based experience.
- Provide a structured platform to gain practical knowledge, while contributing meaningfully to key economic sectors.
Through this partnership, participants are exposed to industry-relevant training and mentorship in environments that value learning, innovation, and growth.
Internship Breakdown: Banking Meets Education
Bank SETA Internship Opportunities
Bank SETA runs a Digital Skills Internship Programme, typically spanning six months. This programme aims to develop digital competence among young professionals, particularly focusing on graduates living with disabilities. Interns are placed in financial institutions and other relevant sectors, gaining hands-on ICT and administrative experience.
ETDP SETA Internship Opportunities
ETDP SETA offers internships and learnerships that generally last between 12 and 24 months. These programmes focus on areas such as education facilitation, HR development, education administration, and training coordination. Interns receive practical training, attend workshops, and complete structured assignments relevant to their field.
Together, this partnership opens doors for well-rounded, cross-sector training opportunities that can build strong CVs and long-term career paths.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is open to unemployed South African youth who meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Aged between 18 and 35 years.
- Have a Matric certificate and a tertiary qualification (Diploma or Degree).
- For Bank SETA: Preference is given to individuals living with disabilities and those with a background or interest in digital and IT-related fields.
- For ETDP SETA: Suitable qualifications include education, training, human resources, and administration.
Preference is also given to historically disadvantaged individuals in alignment with employment equity and skills development mandates.
Benefits of the Programme
Stipends
Interns will receive monthly stipends during the internship period. While amounts may vary depending on the programme and placement, typical ranges include:
- ETDP SETA Internships: R2,500 – R4,500 per month.
- ETDP SETA Learnerships: R3,500 – R5,000 per month.
- Bank SETA Internships: May include higher stipends based on host employer arrangements.
These stipends are designed to cover transport, meals, and other basic costs while gaining experience.
Qualifications and Skills
Upon successful completion, interns may earn:
- Nationally Recognised Qualifications aligned to the NQF.
- Industry-relevant skills in digital tools, financial processes, educational facilitation, HR practices, and project coordination.
- Increased chances of long-term employment or further learning opportunities.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Confirm Your Eligibility: Make sure you meet all the listed requirements.
- Gather Documents: Include a certified copy of your ID, matric certificate, academic transcripts, updated CV, and a motivational letter. If applying as a person with a disability, attach relevant medical documentation.
- Check for Openings: Visit the official Bank SETA and ETDP SETA platforms or trusted local job portals to view open internship positions for 2025.
- Submit Applications: Apply through the official channels—this might include an online portal, email submission, or hand delivery, depending on the specific notice.
- Follow Up: After submission, keep track of your application status and check your emails regularly for interview or assessment invites.
What to Expect During the Programme
Selected candidates will:
- Receive formal induction and onboarding training.
- Be assigned mentors or supervisors within their host companies.
- Participate in performance reviews, check-ins, and feedback sessions.
- Work on real projects that contribute to departmental or organizational goals.
- Attend workshops or complete assessments as required by the programme.
By the end of the internship, participants will have both a qualification and practical experience, giving them a head start in their careers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is this a paid internship?
A: Yes, interns receive a monthly stipend to support them during the programme.
Q: Will I receive a formal qualification?
A: Yes, depending on the programme, you may earn a registered, NQF-aligned qualification or certificate of completion.
Q: Do I need previous work experience?
A: No, these internships are designed for unemployed graduates or youth entering the workforce.
Q: How long is the internship?
A: Bank SETA programmes typically run for 6 months; ETDP SETA programmes last 12 to 24 months.
Q: Can I apply if I have a disability?
A: Yes, persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply, particularly for the Bank SETA Digital Skills Programme.
Real Value: What You Gain
Participating in this internship offers more than just a job title. You gain:
- Real workplace experience in regulated, professional environments.
- New skills that are aligned to South Africa’s labour market needs.
- A boosted CV and better job-readiness.
- Potential for future employment within your host organisation or the broader sector.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Customize Your CV: Highlight education, skills, or volunteer experience that align with your preferred SETA.
- Write a Strong Motivational Letter: Share your career goals, passions, and why you’re a good fit for the programme.
- Apply Early: These opportunities are competitive and often fill up before the official closing date.
- Prepare for Interviews: Practice answering common interview questions and research both SETAs before your meeting.
Final Thoughts: Investing in Your Future
The Bank SETA and ETDP SETA Internship Programme 2025 presents a well-structured and meaningful opportunity for South African youth to enter the world of work. Whether your passion lies in digital innovation, education, HR, or facilitation, this partnership builds a launchpad for real, measurable growth.
This internship is more than a stepping stone—it’s a smart, strategic investment in your future.