If you’re serious about stepping into a strong career path, WRSETA Org TVET internships could be the game-changer you’re looking for.
Whether you’re just finishing your studies or exploring practical work experience, this opportunity can truly set your career in motion.
As a Career Expert and Career Advisor, I’m here to break down everything you need to know in simple, friendly language — no fluff, just real advice you can trust.
What Are WRSETA Org TVET Internships?
WRSETA, short for the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority, is an organization dedicated to skills development in South Africa.
TVET stands for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, which focuses on equipping students with real-world skills.
In simple terms, these internships are a bridge between learning and working — giving you a real taste of your industry while boosting your chances of employment.
How To Apply For TVET Internships?
Are you eager to gain confidence and practical skills in the Technical and Vocational sector?
TVET internships offer young Africans who have completed their N6 in Business Studies and Engineering Studies an excellent opportunity to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world experience.
Read MoreWhy Should You Consider a WRSETA Internship?
Choosing a WRSETA internship isn’t just a random career move; it’s a smart investment in your future.
Here’s why:
| Sl No. | Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Practical Experience | Gain hands-on skills |
| 2 | Industry Exposure | Meet professionals in your field |
| 3 | Employability | Boost your job readiness |
| 4 | Networking | Build valuable contacts |
According to Statistics South Africa, youth unemployment remains around 45%, making internships even more critical today.
Who Can Apply?
Not everyone qualifies automatically — and that’s okay.
You must:
- Be a TVET graduate
- Have completed an N6 qualification
- Require workplace experience to graduate
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
Pro Tip:
Even if you’ve already completed your diploma, gaining extra workplace exposure can make you stand out in the job market!
Important Skills You’ll Develop:
During your WRSETA TVET internship, you won’t just “work” — you’ll learn skills that matter.
| Sl No. | Skill | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Communication | Vital for any job |
| 2 | Problem-Solving | Helps you think critically |
| 3 | Teamwork | Needed for most workplaces |
| 4 | Time Management | Essential for meeting deadlines |
A report by LinkedIn’s 2024 Workplace Learning Report revealed that 92% of hiring managers value soft skills just as much as technical skills.
How the Application Process Works?
Getting into the WRSETA TVET program is very straightforward but competitive.
Here’s the basic step-by-step:
- Visit the official WRSETA website.
- Search for TVET Internship Opportunities.
- Fill out the application form carefully.
- Attach all necessary documents (CV, ID, Academic Records, etc.).
- Submit before the deadline.
Insight:
Always double-check your application. A small mistake can cost you the opportunity!
Explore TVET Internship Program:
Are you passionate about making a difference in education and economic development? As a TVET intern, you’ll be joining Opportunity International’s Education Technical Assistance Facility (ETAF) team.
Explore all the TVET internship programs for UK, Africa, and many more countries.
Apply Today!How Long Are These Internships?
Typically, WRSETA internships last 18 months — giving you ample time to fully understand the industry.
Some placements could be shorter based on the employer’s specific needs.
| Sl No. | Duration | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6 months | Short-term exposure |
| 2 | 12 months | Skill development |
| 3 | 18 months | Full practical experience |
Stipends and Salaries: What You Can Expect?
Money isn’t everything, but let’s be honest — it matters.
Most WRSETA TVET internships offer a monthly stipend ranging from R3,000 to R5,000.
| Sl No. | Stipend Amount | Type of Internship |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | R3,000 | General Admin Roles |
| 2 | R4,000 | Specialized Technical Roles |
| 3 | R5,000 | Retail Management Training |
Pro Tip:
Don’t focus only on the stipend. Focus on the experience and how it builds your resume.
Learnerships: Building Skills for the Future
Learnerships are designed with real job market needs in mind. Whenever there’s a skills shortage in the economy, learnerships step in to train people in that exact skill area.
They are essential tools for closing the skills gap, creating jobs, and fighting South Africa’s ongoing unemployment crisis.
At the heart of every learnership, there are three core features:
| Sl No. | Feature | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Structured Learning | Theoretical training in a classroom or similar setting. |
| 2 | Practical Work Experience | Hands-on experience in a real or simulated workplace. |
| 3 | Qualification Outcome | Leads to a National Qualification Framework (NQF) certificate. |
Whether you’re employed or unemployed, you can participate in a learnership.
- Employed individuals can join through their company or sector.
- Unemployed individuals can register at their nearest Labour Centre or with employers nearby.
The Department of Labour Labour Centres are responsible for registering unemployed applicants and helping them find placements.
No learner needs to pay for a learnership, and unemployed learners even get an allowance or stipend to cover basic costs like transport and meals.
Why Learnerships Are a Game-Changer:
- You can earn a qualification while gaining work experience.
- School leavers and the unemployed get critical real-world exposure and job networking opportunities.
- Learnerships are not time-bound—if you complete the requirements faster, you earn your credits quicker.
- Accredited training providers ensure that every learnership is recognized and valuable to future employers.
Typically, learnerships last up to one year.
During this time, a qualified assessor evaluates your progress, and the relevant SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) moderates your achievements.
If you meet all standards, you’ll receive a National Qualification certificate.
Pro Tip:
Always confirm that your training provider is accredited. This ensures your qualification is recognized by top employers across South Africa.
Skills Programmes: The First Step to Bigger Opportunities
Skills programmes offer shorter, job-focused training that paves the way to a full qualification.
They are usually introduced when an industry urgently needs a skill but employees lack training in that area.
| Sl No. | Skills Programme Features | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Short-Term Training | Focused learning on specific tasks or skills. |
| 2 | Credit-Based | Credits count toward full qualifications. |
| 3 | Immediate Employability | Boosts chances of getting hired faster. |
The credits you earn through a skills programme build toward a full qualification over time. Plus, you get real workplace experience that enhances your employability, self-employment potential, and career mobility.
To launch a skills programme, companies and training providers need to:
- Identify the skill gap.
- Align with relevant Unit Standards.
- Apply for SETA recognition.
Insight:
According to a 2024 study by Skills Portal South Africa, candidates with skills programme certifications are 30% more likely to be hired within three months compared to uncertified applicants.
Apprenticeships: Mastering a Trade, Crafting a Future
An apprenticeship combines technical learning with real on-the-job training, specifically for trades like welding, plumbing, or even jewellery making.
After completing an apprenticeship and passing a trade test, you are officially recognized as an artisan.
| Sl No. | Apprenticeship vs Learnership | Apprenticeship | Learnership |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Focus | Specific trade skills | Broader career paths and occupations |
| 2 | Qualification | National Trade Certificate | NQF-registered qualification |
| 3 | Entry Requirements | Strong marks in Maths and Science preferred | Open to employed and unemployed learners |
Apprenticeships differ because they are job-specific, not career-focused.
If you pursue an apprenticeship, you’ll be trained for a specific job rather than a general field.
Anyone over 16 years old can apply. But those with good results in Mathematics and Science stand a better chance of getting selected.
Employers offering apprenticeships must be workplace approved. As an apprentice:
- You’ll be indentured under the Manpower Training Act.
- You might also study for an N2 Certificate at an FET College.
- Employers typically cover your education costs.
- Once you pass your trade test, you’ll earn a National Trade Certificate and become a fully qualified artisan.
Pro Tip:
If you’re serious about a long-term trade career, apprenticeships offer stability and strong earning potential—especially in industries like construction and engineering.
Internships: Your First Step Into the Professional World
An internship is a temporary position inside a company where students or recent graduates get on-the-job training.
Internships are mostly designed for individuals at the beginning of their careers, looking to gain real-world experience.
| Sl No. | Internship Features | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Practical Industry Exposure | Get familiar with professional environments. |
| 2 | Career Networking | Build connections that can lead to job offers. |
| 3 | Possible Paid Positions | Some companies offer stipends or part-time pay. |
There’s no strict rule about paying interns.
Some internships are paid, partly paid, or unpaid, depending on the company’s policies.
Insight:
According to Graduate Careers South Africa, students who complete internships are 60% more likely to secure full-time employment within six months.
Bursaries: Making Education Accessible for All
The W&RSETA (Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority) offers a bursary scheme for needy students studying retail-related qualifications at public universities, universities of technology, and FET Colleges in South Africa.
| Sl No. | Focus Areas | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Accounting and Finance | Accounting, Credit Management |
| 2 | Logistics and Operations | Logistics, Operations Management, Supply Chain |
| 3 | Marketing and Technology | Marketing, Information Technology |
| 4 | Industrial and Food Technology | Food Technology, Industrial Relations |
The main goal is to address skills shortages in critical areas like:
- Accounting
- Credit Management
- Logistics
- Operations Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Food Technology
- Purchasing Management
- Information Technology
- Industrial Relations
- Marketing
This bursary scheme is helping South Africa build a strong pipeline of talent to support the economy’s needs.
Bursary Success Story: Bhekiwe Simelane’s Journey
Bhekiwe Simelane’s journey is a true inspiration.
After matriculating, she went to the Durban University of Technology with just enough money for registration—but she had a big dream: to study Retail Business Management.
In 2012, Bhekiwe received a W&RSETA bursary, allowing her to focus on her studies. She graduated cum laude with a National Diploma and later completed a BTech in 2016.
Today, she’s pursuing her Master’s Degree in Retail Management.
Bhekiwe currently works as a Foods Department Manager at a major retailer.
Her words say it all:
“Our industry has a lot to offer, and it is up to us to grab every opportunity to our advantage. Gone are the days when people believed that retail is not for highly educated individuals.”
Pro Tip:
If you’re passionate about education like Bhekiwe, apply for bursaries early and stay consistent in your academic efforts. Retail today demands highly skilled professionals!
W&RSETA Bursary Scheme:
In 2011, the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) took a powerful step towards bridging the skills gap identified in the Sector Skills Plan by launching the W&RSETA Bursary Scheme.
Administered by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and Career Wise, this bursary program is designed to provide financial assistance to deserving students passionate about pursuing qualifications in wholesale and retail fields.
This bursary is open to learners aiming to study at any accredited university, university of technology, or TVET College (previously called FET Colleges) in South Africa, making it widely accessible to students from different backgrounds.
Recognizing the crucial role that TVET Colleges play in combating national skills shortages, the W&RSETA has strategically focused efforts on empowering students from these institutions.
By doing so, the bursary program not only addresses immediate skills gaps but also helps build a future-ready workforce equipped to meet the sector’s evolving demands.
Through this bursary, the sector gains a growing pool of skilled graduates, helping close the gap between industry needs and available talent. At the same time, it elevates wholesale and retail as an exciting and rewarding career choice for young South Africans.
Ready to Apply?
Visit any NSFAS office to start your application process!
Checkout the NSFAS Offices and Branches to apply for your first application!
MBA and PhD Bursaries:
In alignment with South Africa’s National Research and Development Strategy (2002), W&RSETA has introduced bursaries specifically aimed at MBA, Masters, and PhD students.
This bold initiative supports the country’s vision to boost research capabilities and develop human capacity by creating a strong National System of Innovation (NSI).
These bursaries are open exclusively to South African citizens who are studying either full-time or part-time and wish to pursue advanced degrees focused on the wholesale and retail sector.
The main goals of the MBA and PhD bursary program are:
Increase the number and quality of postgraduate students specializing in wholesale and retail.
Promote advanced research within the wholesale and retail sector.
Build a sustainable pipeline of researchers who will shape the future of South Africa’s retail landscape.
Professionalize the wholesale and retail sector to make it a recognized and respected career path.
What’s Covered by the Bursary?
The full bursary package includes:
- Registration fees
- Tuition costs
- Textbooks and learning materials
- Accommodation
- Meals and maintenance allowances
- Editing and printing expenses
- Travel expenses to attend local conferences and seminars (MBA students)
- Travel expenses to attend local and international conferences (PhD students)
Through this program, W&RSETA is investing not just in individuals — but in the future of retail research and leadership in South Africa.
Graduate Placement Programme at W&RSETA:
The W&RSETA, in partnership with wholesale and retail companies, offers graduates invaluable workplace experience designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.
This Graduate Placement Programme offers structured opportunities for students and graduates from TVET Colleges, Universities of Technology, and Universities to gain practical experience, enhance their resumes, and become career-ready.
Depending on the qualification, the placement programme spans 12 to 18 months, ensuring enough time for meaningful learning and growth.
Who Qualifies for the W&RSETA Workplace Experience Programme?
If you meet the following criteria, you’re eligible to apply:
- You’re a TVET college, university, or university of technology student.
- You need practical experience (internship) to complete your qualification.
- You seek workplace exposure to kickstart your career journey.
You’re studying or have graduated with a qualification related to wholesale and retail, such as:
- Information Technology (IT)
- Finance
- Accounting
- Human Resources (HR)
- Marketing
- Logistics
- Supply Chain Management
- And other related fields.
What Stipends Are Offered?
To support graduates and interns during their workplace experience, W&RSETA provides the following monthly stipends:
- HET Degree Graduates: R5000 for 12 months
- HET Diploma Graduates: R4500 for 12 months
- TVET N6 Graduates: R4500 for 12 months
- TVET N6 Interns: R3000 for 18 months
These stipends help ease the financial burden and allow participants to focus on learning and growing within the industry.
How to Apply for the W&RSETA Workplace Experience Programme?
It’s important to note: W&RSETA does not offer these internships directly to students or graduates.
Instead, funding is provided to wholesale and retail companies who then implement and manage the workplace experience programmes.
To apply, graduates and students must:
- Monitor job advertisements by wholesale and retail companies.
- Proactively contact companies to inquire about available workplace experience opportunities.
Taking this initiative could be the first step towards building a successful career in wholesale and retail.
Real-Life Example: Sipho’s Journey
Let me share a real-world example.
Sipho, a young graduate from a rural area, applied for the WRSETA Org TVET internship in 2022. Within 18 months, he moved from intern to Assistant Store Manager at a major retail brand.
Today, Sipho earns over R15,000 monthly and mentors new interns.
If he can do it, so can you!
Benefits of WRSETA Org TVET Internships:
Besides the obvious financial support and experience, here’s what you gain:
- Career Confidence: Knowing what to expect in a real job.
- Certifications: Valuable recognition from WRSETA and employers.
- Growth Opportunities: Many interns get absorbed into permanent roles.
Tips for a Successful WRSETA Internship:
To make the most out of your internship:
- Be Punctual: Arriving on time speaks volumes.
- Take Initiative: Always ask if you can help with extra tasks.
- Stay Positive: Employers notice your attitude more than you think.
- Keep Learning: Ask questions and seek feedback.
Pro Tip:
Write down everything you learn daily — you’ll appreciate it later during interviews.
Challenges You Might Face (And How to Beat Them):
No internship is perfect.
Here’s a reality check:
| Sl No. | Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Limited Tasks | Ask for more responsibility |
| 2 | Low Pay | Focus on long-term gains |
| 3 | Difficult Colleagues | Stay professional |
Remember, these are temporary hurdles. Keep your eyes on the bigger goal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Your Internship:
It’s easy to slip up when you’re new.
Avoid:
- Ignoring Feedback.
- Taking Things Personally.
- Missing Deadlines.
- Not Networking.
Insight:
Every connection you make could lead to your next job!
Career Paths After a WRSETA TVET Internship:
Once you complete your WRSETA internship, doors will open in various sectors:
| Sl No. | Career Path | Potential Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Retail | Store Manager, Buyer |
| 2 | Logistics | Operations Coordinator |
| 3 | Admin | Office Administrator |
| 4 | Sales | Sales Executive |
Some companies even offer internal promotions and sponsorships for further studies.
Best Companies to Target for Your Next Step:
Here’s a short list of companies that love hiring former interns:
- Woolworths
- Shoprite
- Pick n Pay
- Spar
- Massmart
Pro Tip:
Keep your LinkedIn profile updated after your internship ends.
Comparing WRSETA Internships to Other Internship Programs:
| Sl No. | Aspect | WRSETA Internship | Other Internships |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Industry Focus | Retail and Wholesale | Various |
| 2 | Duration | 18 months | 6-12 months |
| 3 | Stipend | R3,000-R5,000 | Varies |
| 4 | Certification | Yes | Sometimes |
Fact:
WRSETA specifically focuses on industries that continue to grow even during economic downturns!
Building a Successful Career Journey:
After completing the WRSETA TVET internship, continue learning:
- Take online courses like Coursera or edX (see Coursera Courses).
- Attend career fairs.
- Join professional networks like Retail Association of South Africa.
Pro Tip:
Lifelong learning keeps you relevant and employable!
Final Thoughts:
Why WRSETA Org TVET Internships Matter?
In today’s world, practical experience matters more than degrees alone.
WRSETA internships give you that crucial foot in the door while still allowing you to grow, explore, and secure your future career.
If you’re serious about shaping your career — this is where it starts.
Websites You Should Explore:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Yes, but preference is given to those needing work experience for a diploma.
Keep applying and use the downtime to build skills through free online courses.
Mostly, but you can move into logistics, supply chain, admin, and sales too.
Most internships require you to work 40 hours per week, similar to a full-time job, but exact hours can vary depending on the employer.
Yes, upon successful completion, you’ll receive a completion certificate from the employer and sometimes a recognition letter from WRSETA itself.
Absolutely! Many companies hire top-performing interns into full-time permanent roles, especially if you consistently show commitment and strong work ethics.
Yes, WRSETA internships are offered across South Africa, including provinces like Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and others.
You’ll typically need your certified ID copy, certified academic records, N6 certificate, updated CV, and sometimes a cover letter.
If you leave early without a valid reason, you may not receive your completion certificate, and it could affect your future career opportunities negatively.
Usually, priority is given to unemployed graduates who need workplace experience to qualify for their diplomas, so being currently employed might lower your chances.
What Stipends Are Offered?
To support graduates and interns during their workplace experience, W&RSETA provides the following monthly stipends:
- HET Degree Graduates: R5000 for 12 months
- HET Diploma Graduates: R4500 for 12 months
- TVET N6 Graduates: R4500 for 12 months
- TVET N6 Interns: R3000 for 18 months
These stipends help ease the financial burden and allow participants to focus on learning and growing within the industry.
Hey, I am Sachin Ramdurg. I run and manage futuredecider.com website that helps students, graduates, and professionals, to find and decide on their future career with ultimate future career advices and future career guides. I have an overall 12+ years of career guidance experience in multiple domains which has helped multiple students, graduates, and professionals to find the best career path for their future.