Are you a recent graduate under the age of 35, currently unemployed, and looking for valuable work experience in a government institution? This is a fully-funded, 24-month internship programme designed to provide unemployed graduates with hands-on workplace exposure, mentorship, and real-world experience in various disciplines related to water resource management and public administration.
Whether your background is in Human Resources, Environmental Science, Finance, or IT, the IUCMA’s internship programme offers structured training, practical skills, and an opportunity to build your career within one of South Africa’s most critical sectors — water resource management. If you’re committed to personal development, eager to serve your community, and meet the basic eligibility requirements, this could be the game-changing step your career needs.
What Is the IUCMA Graduate Development Trainee / Internship Programme?
The IUCMA is a public entity operating under the National Water Act of 1998. Based in Mpumalanga, it works to promote sustainable and equitable integrated water resource management across the Inkomati-Usuthu Water Management Area.
This 2-year programme is a golden opportunity for graduates to enter the working world with hands-on experience, receive mentorship from industry professionals, and potentially transition into long-term employment in government or the private sector.
Who Can Apply?
- Be a South African citizen under the age of 35.
- Be unemployed and available to commit to a 24-month internship.
- Have completed a relevant post-school qualification (minimum National Diploma or Degree).
- Have not previously participated in any internship programme in either the public or private sector.
- Have a minimum average mark of 60% in the final year of study.
Internship Fields and Requirements
Here’s a breakdown of the internship fields available and the minimum qualifications required:
1. Human Resources
- Qualification: National Diploma or Degree in Human Resource Management, Public Management, or Industrial Psychology
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
2. Communications & Intergovernmental Relations
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
3. Supply Chain Management
- Qualification: National Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Public Management, or Public Procurement
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
4. Resource Quality Monitoring
- Qualification: BSc in Natural Sciences or equivalent in Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or Environmental Science
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
5. Water Resource Planning and Development
- Qualification: BSc in Civil Engineering, Geology, GIS, Hydrology
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
6. Compliance, Monitoring & Enforcement
- Qualification: Environmental Science or equivalent; focus areas include Geohydrology, Hydrology, or Water Resource Management
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
7. Water Use Authorisation
- Qualification: Natural Sciences or related field such as Geohydrology or Hydrology
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
8. Institutions and Participation
- Qualification: Development Studies, Community Development, or Communication
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
9. Information Technology
- Qualification: National Diploma or Degree in IT or Computer Science
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
10. Finance
- Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Accounting or Finance
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
11. Risk & Audit Compliance
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
12. Records and Auxiliary Services
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
13. Internal Auditing
- Qualification: National Diploma or Degree in Auditing, preferably internal auditing
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
14. Strategy & Knowledge Management
- Qualification: Degree in Business Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, or Strategy Development
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
15. Corporate Support
- Qualification: Diploma or Degree in Public Management, Monitoring and Evaluation
- Location: Nelspruit, Head Office
How to Apply
All applications must include the following:
- Certified copies of your qualifications.
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copy of your driver’s license (if applicable).
- Proof of residence.
- An academic transcript or results statement showing your final marks and qualification completion date.
Application Submission:
You can apply either by post or by hand-delivering your application:
- By Hand: Post at the IUCMA Reception (Second Floor, ASISA Sugar Building, 49 Buitenkant Street, Mbombela)
- By Post: Address to the Human Resource Office, Private Bag X11214, Nelspruit, 1200
Important Dates
- Closing Date: 20 June 2025
Why Should You Apply?
This internship is more than just work experience — it’s a stepping stone into the public sector, offering real projects, mentorship, and the chance to be part of a vital organisation managing South Africa’s water resources. You’ll gain insights into sustainable environmental practices, public policy, and infrastructure planning while developing critical soft and technical skills needed in today’s competitive job market.
For those who qualify, this is not just a job — it’s a launchpad into a meaningful career with purpose and long-term impact.
The IUCMA 2025/26 Graduate Development Programme is a rare opportunity for unemployed graduates to break into the workforce and gain valuable industry-relevant experience in Mpumalanga. If you’re passionate about making a difference in your community, working in public service, and growing your career with expert support, don’t miss this chance.
Prepare your documents, tailor your CV, and submit your application before the 20 June 2025 deadline. For further inquiries, contact Dr. D.S. Mahlangu or Ms. P.Z. Tzane at 013 753 9000 / 9010 / 9072 or visit the IUCMA website at www.iucma.co.za.
