SAPS SASSETA Graduate Internship Programme 2026 (Multiple Fields Across South Africa)

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in partnership with the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) has opened applications for the Graduate Internship Programme 2026.

This programme provides unemployed graduates in South Africa with the opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience in the safety and security sector while contributing to national crime prevention and community safety initiatives.

If you recently graduated and are looking for practical work experience in government, this programme could be an excellent opportunity to start your career.

Programme Overview

The SAPS SASSETA Graduate Internship Programme is designed to help young South Africans gain practical work experience, professional exposure, and industry skills in various fields related to policing, crime intelligence, and public administration.

Successful applicants will be placed within different SAPS divisions and offices across South Africa, where they will receive structured training and mentorship.

The programme aims to strengthen the safety and security sector workforce while helping graduates transition from education to employment.

Available Internship Fields

The 2026 intake includes internships in several specialized fields.

1. Social Work Internship

This internship focuses on providing professional social work services within SAPS.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (NQF Level 6 or higher)

• Registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP)

• Computer literacy

Responsibilities

• Provide social work support services to SAPS employees

• Offer preventive and supportive interventions

• Promote employee wellbeing programmes

2. Psychology / Trauma Counselling Internship

This internship supports the mental health and wellness of SAPS members.

Requirements

• Honours Degree or B Psych Degree in Psychology

• Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)

Responsibilities

• Provide counselling services

• Conduct psychological assessments

• Support employee wellness programmes

3. Crime Intelligence Analyst Internship

This internship focuses on analysing crime information and assisting SAPS operations.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Degree in:

  • Criminology

  • Sociology

  • Political Science

Responsibilities

• Collect and analyse crime information

• Produce intelligence reports

• Support operational planning and threat assessments

4. Internal Audit Internship

This internship focuses on financial oversight and compliance within SAPS.

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in:

  • Internal Audit

  • Accounting

  • Commerce

  • Finance

Responsibilities

• Assist with internal audits

• Analyse financial risks

• Prepare audit reports

5. Risk and Integrity Management Internship

This internship focuses on governance, risk management and organisational integrity.

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in:

  • Risk Management

  • Internal Audit

  • Public Administration

Responsibilities

• Support risk management processes

• Assist with integrity investigations

• Promote compliance with policies

Minimum Requirements

To qualify for the SAPS SASSETA Graduate Internship Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen

• Must be between 18 and 35 years old

• Must have a relevant tertiary qualification

• Must be unemployed

• Must not have participated in a similar internship before

• Must have no criminal record or pending cases

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Certified copy of South African ID

• Certified copy of Matric certificate

• Certified copies of tertiary qualifications

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Applicants may apply for a maximum of three internship positions, but each position requires a separate application form.

Internship Locations

Internships will be available across various provinces including:

• Gauteng

• Western Cape

• Eastern Cape

• KwaZulu-Natal

• Limpopo

• Free State

• Northern Cape

• North West

• Mpumalanga

This allows graduates from across South Africa to participate in the programme.

Benefits of the Programme

Successful applicants will benefit from:

• Practical workplace experience

• Professional mentorship

• Exposure to SAPS operations

• Career development in the safety and security sector

This experience can significantly improve future employment prospects in government and the private sector.

How to Apply

To apply for the SAPS SASSETA Graduate Internship Programme:

1. Download and complete the official application form.

2. Attach all required certified documents.

3. Submit the application to the SAPS office or academy indicated in the advert.

Applicants must ensure they clearly indicate the reference number of the internship position they are applying for.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

• Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

• Applicants must ensure all documents are certified and valid.

Final Thoughts

The SAPS SASSETA Graduate Internship Programme 2026 is an excellent opportunity for graduates who want to gain professional experience while contributing to public safety and national development.

If you are passionate about serving communities and building a career in the safety and security sector, this internship programme could be your stepping stone into the public service.