Eskom Internships 2025/2026: Opportunities for South African Graduates

The energy industry plays a vital role in South Africa’s growth and development. One of the largest utilities in the country, Eskom, is committed to developing the next generation of skilled professionals through its Internship Programme. The 2025/2026 intake offers unemployed graduates the chance to gain real-world work experience, professional training, and a foundation for a successful career. Eskom Internships 2025/2026

In this article we’ll explore why you should consider the Eskom Internship Programme, the types of internships available, eligibility criteria, how to apply, and tips to make your application stand out. At the end you’ll find a FAQ section to answer common questions.

Why Choose Eskom’s Internship Programme?

Joining Eskom’s internship programme is more than just securing a short-term placement: it is an investment in your professional future. Here are key reasons why this opportunity stands out:

Real-world exposure

The programme is structured to combine theoretical and practical learning, meaning interns are not only studying concepts but are applying them in operational settings. At Eskom, interns may work on maintenance, engineering projects, IT systems, environmental safety, human capital, business functions and more. This hands-on component builds skills that are immediately relevant in the job market.

Mentorship and career growth

Eskom emphasises mentorship, training and development. Being placed in a major utility means you’re part of teams that tackle complex tasks and contribute toward South Africa’s energy supply and infrastructure. When you gain such experience under the guidance of experienced professionals, you not only gain knowledge but confidence and credibility, which are key for long-term career growth.

Contribution to a vital sector

Eskom powers millions of lives and plays a central role in South Africa’s economy and infrastructure. Interning at such an organisation means you’re not just gaining work experience you’re part of the transition in the energy sector, building skills in an industry that will continue to evolve over the coming decades.

Brand value & network building

Having “Eskom” on your CV signals that you’ve trained with a recognised, large-scale employer. The networks you build during the internship supervisors, colleagues, project teams can open doors post-internship.

Internship Streams Available for 2025/2026

Eskom offers a broad array of streams to accommodate graduates and young professionals from different fields of study and interest. Below is a breakdown of key streams and what they typically involve.

1. Graduate in Training – Computer Science & IT

• Qualification: BCom or BSc in Information Technology or Computer Science
• Focus areas: System development, data analysis, cybersecurity, IT support
• Why it matters: With digital transformation across all industries including utilities skills in IT are increasingly sought after. This stream places you at the heart of energy systems’ digital backbone.

2. Graduate in Training – CC & FME (Electrical/Mechanical Engineering)

• Qualification: Electrical or Mechanical Engineering degree, National Diploma or BTech
• Focus: Practical engineering training within plant maintenance and engineering projects
• Why it matters: The utility sector depends on robust mechanical and electrical systems. Hands-on experience in these fields is highly valuable.

3. Graduate in Training – Safety

• Qualification: B Degree in Safety Management or Environmental Science
• Focus: Workplace safety, environmental compliance, hazard prevention
• Why it matters: Safety and environmental management are critical in large-scale operations like Eskom’s. Exposure in this area can lead to specialised roles in OH&S (Occupational Health & Safety).

4. Graduate in Training – Human Capital Management

• Qualification: Undergraduate or Postgraduate Degree in Industrial Psychology
• Focus: HR functions, employee wellness, organisational development
• Why it matters: Large organisations require effective human-capital strategies. If you enjoy working with people and processes, this is a strong option.

5. Graduate in Training – Environmental, Health & Safety

• Qualification: National Diploma or Degree in Environmental Health or Safety Management
• Focus: Implementing and monitoring OH&S standards, environmental compliance
• Why it matters: Utilities like Eskom must comply with stringent regulations, so experience in this field opens doors in regulatory, sustainability and safety sectors.

6. Graduate in Training – EC (Business/Administration/Creative)

• Qualification: B Degree in Business Management, Marketing, Finance, Accounting, Environmental Management, HR Management or Graphic Design
• Focus: Exposure to multiple business functions: administration, creative services, business operations
• Why it matters: It’s a great fit if you’re inclined toward business processes, design, communication or marketing in a large-scale industrial context.

7. YES Programme – Gauteng & Eastern Cape

• Requirements: Grade 12 (or equivalent), South African citizen, Age 18–34
• Focus: Youth Empowerment Services – entry-level skills development, work-readiness
• Why it matters: Even if you do not yet hold a tertiary qualification, the YES placement offers a meaningful start. It’s especially helpful for building a work-readiness track record.

8. Graduate in Training – Finance

• Qualification: B Degree in Commerce, Accounting, or Financial Accounting
• Focus: Budgeting, auditing, financial reporting
• Why it matters: Knowledge of finance within a large utility offers exposure into budgeting, cost control and financial governance.

9. Graduate in Training – Western Cape (WC)

• Qualification: B Degree in Business Management, Administration, Marketing, Finance, Accounting, Economics, Environmental Management, HR Management, or Industrial Engineering
• Focus: Exposure to diverse business and technical operations in a key region
• Why it matters: Regional placement may offer specific experience with business functions in the Western Cape context.

10. Engineer in Training (Systems and Tools)

• Qualification: BEng or BScEng in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Process, Metallurgy, Chemical, Civil or Industrial Engineering
• Focus: Systems development, tools, methodologies in engineering
• Why it matters: This is a more advanced engineering pathway for those looking toward technical specialist or engineering management roles.

11. Engineer in Training (Metallurgy/Mechanical)

• Qualification: BEng or BScEng in Mechanical or Metallurgy Engineering
• Focus: Plant design, testing, equipment reliability
• Why it matters: For those with a strong technical engineering background, this stream can pave the way toward senior engineering roles.

12. Engineer in Training – Mpumalanga

• Qualification: BEng or BScEng in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Process, Metallurgy, Chemical, Civil, Computer or Software Engineering
• Focus: Engineering exposure across multiple disciplines within the Mpumalanga region
• Why it matters: Geographically specific but valuable exposure for graduates willing to work in regional operations.

General Internship Requirements

While each stream has its specific requirements, there are common eligibility criteria that apply across most internships:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be unemployed and not currently enrolled in another internship or learnership.
• Hold the relevant tertiary qualification (degree, diploma or national diploma) as stated for the chosen stream.
• Demonstrate a willingness to learn, adaptability and the ability to work in dynamic environments.
• For the YES Programme: Must have Grade 12 (or equivalent), be aged 18–34 and a South African citizen.

It is important to check each stream’s detailed requirements when you apply, since criteria may update. For example recent listings noted that Eskom invites “suitably qualified and unemployed graduates” for the Graduate in Training internships. Graduates24+2StudentRoom.co.za+2

How to Apply

Applying for Eskom’s internship programme requires careful preparation and punctuality. Here are step-by-step guidelines:

1. Gather your documents
   Ensure you have a certified copy of your Matric certificate, tertiary qualification (transcript or degree certificate), ID (South African ID or smart card), CV/Resume, and possibly a motivational cover letter.
2. Select your stream
   Review the stream lists and choose the one that aligns with your qualification and career interest.
3. Check application deadlines
   Internships are competitive; closing dates matter. For example, previous rounds for 2024/2025 had deadlines such as 4 October 2024. Graduates24+1
4. Apply online
   Use the official Eskom careers portal. According to their official site, applications are channelled through the Eskom recruitment portal. Eskom+1 If the portal is temporarily unavailable, monitor announcements and alternative channels.
5. Complete the application carefully
   Fill all mandatory fields, attach required documents, and make sure your contact details are correct. Double-check spelling, qualifications, references.
6. Prepare for assessments/interviews
   If shortlisted, you may undergo assessments or interviews. Practice common interview questions (why you want to join Eskom, what you bring to the role, examples of teamwork, problem-solving). Make sure you understand the role you applied for.
7. Follow-up
   After submission, keep track of your application status. If there’s a portal account, log in regularly; check your email (including spam) for communications from Eskom.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Tailor your CV for the role: emphasize relevant coursework, projects, software/tools you used (for IT streams), or safety/environmental experience (for EHS streams).
• Highlight measurable achievements: e.g., “developed a prototype database solution for X company”, “led a safety audit in a practical setting”, “performed cost-analysis during my BCom project”.
• Show eagerness to learn: Large utilities value interns who are proactive and adaptable. Mention your willingness to travel, learn new software/processes, work in teams.
• Show awareness of the industry: Familiarise yourself with the role of Eskom in South Africa’s energy sector, current challenges (maintenance, digital transformation, climate change) and how your skills fit.
• Professional presentation: Submit a well-formatted CV, free of mistakes, with clear sections (Education, Skills, Experience, Projects, References).
• Networking / referrals: If you can connect with current or former interns at Eskom (via LinkedIn), you might gain insights into the culture and role-expectations.
• Early submission: Don’t wait until the deadline. Early applications may be reviewed sooner and demonstrate enthusiasm.

Why This Programme Matters

The Eskom Internship Programme is not simply an entry-level placement—it is a strategic investment in youth development and in building a sustainable skills pipeline for South Africa’s energy sector. By offering structured mentorship, real-life exposure, and diverse streams, Eskom ensures that interns acquire competence, confidence and a professional mindset.

For graduates, this means:

• Bridging the gap between academic study and employment many employers expect workplace experience, which the internship provides.
• Building a competitive edge: Having an internship at Eskom on your CV signals that you’ve worked in a rigorous, large-scale environment.
• Opening doors: By working in operations, engineering, IT, safety, business functions, you might find internal placement opportunities, or industry roles elsewhere.
• Making a difference: By contributing to critical infrastructure and the energy sector, your work has an impact on millions of lives.

Conclusion: Your Road to a Solid Career Starts Here

If you are an unemployed graduate or young adult seeking meaningful work-readiness opportunities, the Eskom Internships 2025/2026 could be your launch pad. Whether your passion lies in engineering, IT, safety, business, finance or administration, there is a stream designed for you. With application deadlines approaching, now is the time to prepare your documents, tailor your CV, reflect on your strengths, and apply.

Don’t miss out on contributing to South Africa’s energy future and building your own professional journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the duration of Eskom’s internship programmes?
A1: Durations may vary depending on the stream. Past programmes have offered contracts of 12 – 24 months, though the specific term should be confirmed in the official advertisement.

Q2: Is the internship paid?
A2: Yes, typically interns receive a stipend according to Eskom policy. The actual amount may vary by role and location.

Q3: Do I need to have work experience to apply?
A3: No. One of the key aims of this programme is to provide work experience to graduates who are unemployed. A strong academic record, relevant qualification and willingness to learn are more important.

Q4: Can I apply for more than one stream?
A4: This depends on Eskom’s application policy for that cycle. It’s best to check the official advert; some programmes allow selecting multiple preferences, others may restrict you to one.

Q5: Are internships only in major cities or can they be regional?
A5: Both. Some streams are regional (for example, Western Cape – WC, Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape) while others may be national. Be sure to check location clauses in the advert.

Q6: For the YES programme, do I need a tertiary qualification?
A6: No. For the Youth Employment Service (YES) stream, you need at least a Grade 12 (or equivalent), be aged 18 – 34 and be a South African citizen. The YES programme focuses on work-readiness and entry-level exposure.

Q7: After completing the internship, is there a guarantee of permanent employment?
A7: No guarantee. While successful interns may be considered for permanent roles, internships are not automatically convert to employment. However, completing the programme with good performance significantly improves your employability.

Q8: How do I find the official advert for 2025/2026 internships?
A8: Visit Eskom’s official careers website and monitor their ‘Graduate / Internship’ section. According to their site, recruitment applications are channelled through Eskom’s recruitment portal. Eskom+1 Also follow reputable listing platforms (e.g., StudentsRoom.co.za) for updates. StudentRoom.co.za

Q9: What selection criteria are used?
A9: Selection typically involves assessing your academic qualification, relevance of your field of study, your unemployment status, your motivation, possibly psychometric or technical assessments, and interview performance. Be prepared to demonstrate your interest and capability.

Q10: How can I make my application stand out?
A10: Tailor your CV for the role you’re applying for, highlight any relevant projects/internships/volunteer work, articulate in your cover letter why you choose Eskom and how your strengths align with that stream, and demonstrate flexibility, eagerness to learn, and awareness of the utility/energy sector.