If you’ve been waiting for a breakthrough opportunity, this is it.
The Services SETA PowerX² 20 000 Internships Programme is now officially open — one of the largest graduate internship rollouts in South Africa, aimed at placing 20 000 unemployed graduates into 24-month paid workplace experience opportunities.
This is not just another internship — it’s a national effort to close the gap between education and employability, giving graduates the experience employers require.
Quick Overview: PowerX² – Services SETA 20 000 Internships 2025/2027
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | PowerX² – Services SETA 20 000 Internships |
| Duration | 24 Months |
| Who Can Apply | Graduates with NQF Level 4–7 (universities or public TVET colleges) |
| Status Required | Must be unemployed |
| Host Employers | Private sector, public sector, NGOs, municipalities, government departments |
| Application Type | Online Expression of Interest (EOI) |
| Opening Date | 21 November 2025 |
| Closing Date | 11 December 2025 at 16:00 |
| Documents Required | Yes — submitted after EOI confirmation |
| Contact Email | [email protected] |
| Official Link | www.servicesseta.org.za/powerx2 |
What Is the PowerX² Internship Programme?
The PowerX² – Services SETA 20 000 Internships Initiative is a nationwide graduate placement programme providing 24 months of structured workplace experience to unemployed youth.
It directly addresses one of South Africa’s biggest challenges:
graduates who hold qualifications but lack practical experience.
The programme supports national skills development priorities, including:
- NSDP 2030 (National Skills Development Plan)
- National Skills Development Strategy
- Services SETA mandate to expand workplace learning
All fields are considered — HR, Marketing, Finance, Law, IT, Engineering, Business Admin, Public Management, Education, and more.
Placement depends on workplace needs across sectors.
About Services SETA
The Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA) is one of South Africa’s 21 SETAs responsible for upskilling the nation by:
- Funding training programmes
- Supporting youth employment
- Expanding access to real workplace experience
- Partnering with employers to build skilled workers
PowerX² is their largest internship initiative to date, reinforcing their commitment to empowering South African graduates.
Who Can Apply? (Graduate Eligibility)
You qualify if you:
- Have completed an NQF Level 4–7 qualification from a public university or public TVET college
- Are currently unemployed
- Are available for 24 months
- Are willing to be placed anywhere in South Africa
- Submit the Graduate EOI online
Important:
Previous SETA funding does NOT affect your eligibility. Everyone may apply.
Documents Required (Submitted After EOI)
Once you submit your EOI, you will receive a secure upload link. Required documents:
- Certified ID copy
- Certified qualification / statement of results
- Updated CV
- Proof of residence
- Bank confirmation letter
Employers Can Apply to Host Interns
Organisations that can host interns include:
- Private companies
- Government departments
- Municipalities
- Public entities
- NGOs / NPOs
- Universities and TVET colleges
Employer Requirements:
- Must be COIDA-registered
- Must meet OHS compliance
- Commit to hosting interns for 24 months
- Provide workplace site details
- Complete Employer EOI
- Undergo Workplace Approval
Documents Required (After EOI):
- CIPC documents
- SARS Tax Compliance PIN
- CSD Summary Report
- COIDA / Letter of Good Standing
- OHS compliance proof
- Workplace site list
- Site physical addresses
- ID of authorised representative
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to www.servicesseta.org.za/powerx2
Step 2: Choose Your Category
- Graduate
- Employer
Step 3: Complete the EOI
Fill in all required details.
Step 4: Check Your Confirmation Email
You’ll receive:
- Reference number
- Secure upload link
- Required document checklist
- Deadline reminders
Step 5: Upload Your Documents
Step 6: Wait for Communication
The Services SETA Programme Management Unit (PMU) will follow up.
Why Graduates Should Apply (Top Benefits)
- 24 months paid work experience
- Real exposure to professional workplaces
- Stronger CV and employability
- Access to national employer networks
- Improved confidence and skills
- Possible pathways to permanent jobs
- SETA-supported career development
This programme can dramatically increase your chances of long-term employment.