The Mvula Trust: Work Integrated Learning Opportunities for Built Environment Graduates 2025

Are you a recent graduate in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or Project Management, currently unemployed and in need of in-service training? If you’re between the ages of 18 and 35 and reside in the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, or KwaZulu-Natal, this is your chance to gain practical experience and earn a stipend while working in your field of study.
The Mvula Trust is offering a 6-month Work Integrated Learning opportunity designed to help unemployed youth get critical exposure in the built environment sector — and it could be the stepping stone to your future career.
The Mvula Trust Work Integrated Learning Opportunity: What is it?
The Mvula Trust, a prominent development agency designated by the Department of Basic Education, is presently seeking candidates for its Work Integrated Learning Programme, which is a component of the government’s SAFE (Sanitation Appropriate for Education) initiative. This program plays a crucial role in their strategy for human capital development, emphasizing the preparation of young individuals for sustainable employment within the built environment sector.
This opportunity is specifically crafted for unemployed youth with qualifications in technical disciplines who require in-service training to complete their studies or improve their employability. By taking part, candidates will gain real-world work experience in schools across various provinces while receiving a monthly stipend during the 6-month program.
Who Should Apply?
This program is open to:
- Youth aged 18 to 35
- Young people with disabilities
- Women seeking professional experience in technical fields
- Candidates who reside in the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, or KwaZulu-Natal
- Unemployed graduates who require Work Integrated Learning (WIL) or In-Service Training as part of their qualification
This initiative is inclusive and strongly encourages participation from underrepresented groups, providing equal opportunity and support in traditionally male-dominated technical sectors.
Available Learning Disciplines
Selected candidates will be placed in schools for 6 months, where they will gain valuable field experience in the following disciplines:
- Civil Engineering
- Construction Management
- Quantity Surveying
- Project Management
- Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)
Whether you’ve studied engineering or project coordination, this program gives you a structured, supervised environment to sharpen your skills and contribute meaningfully to real-world projects in education infrastructure.
Why This Opportunity Is Worth Applying For
If you’re struggling to find that all-important first job or internship in your field, the Mvula Trust WIL Programme offers:
- Hands-on experience in real projects related to public infrastructure
- Mentorship and support from professionals in your industry
- Networking opportunities with peers and experienced supervisors
- A monthly stipend to help cover your basic needs while learning
- A strong reference and work record to add to your CV
What You Need to Qualify
To be eligible for the Work Integrated Learning Opportunity, applicants must:
- Have a qualification in a relevant built environment field (e.g., Civil Engineering, OHS, Project Management)
- Be currently unemployed
- Require in-service training as part of their qualification requirements or career development
- Be willing to commit to a 6-month placement at a school
- Provide all required documents listed below
What You’ll Need to Submit
Make sure to include the following documentation when applying:
- Your updated CV
- Address verification (to confirm residency in the designated provinces)
- Certified copies of your qualifications
These documents are essential for verifying your eligibility and matching you to a suitable placement within the program.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications is 08 June 2025. Applications received after this date will not be taken into account, so please do not procrastinate.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should email their complete applications to:
recruitment@themvulatrust.org.za
In the subject line of your email, clearly state: Work Integrated Learning Application – [Your Full Name]
Remember, if you do not hear back within 30 days of the closing date, your application was not successful. However, don’t be discouraged — keep applying and stay connected to similar development opportunities.
This is more than just a temporary placement. It’s a launchpad.
The Mvula Trust Work Integrated Learning Programme is a highly targeted and meaningful opportunity for young South Africans in the engineering and construction fields who need workplace exposure. With South Africa’s employment landscape becoming increasingly competitive, structured in-service training is not just beneficial — it’s necessary.
If you’re passionate about building your career while contributing to public service and community development, this opportunity is tailored for you. Apply before the deadline, and take that important first step toward a fulfilling professional journey.
For More Information
Stay informed by visiting the Mvula Trust website or following their official channels for future development and training opportunities.