Young South African graduates are invited to apply for a valuable internship opportunity offered by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), one of the country’s key state-owned enterprises. Based at the bustling Port of Durban, this internship provides a gateway into the finance world, equipping graduates with practical skills and on-the-job training that will help them thrive in their careers.
A Golden Opportunity for Young Graduates
Transnet’s Graduate Internship Programme is a structured, 24-month initiative that offers real-world exposure in a professional environment. The programme places interns in various departments depending on their academic background, with the current opportunity specifically aimed at finance graduates.
Under this programme, interns will work under the supervision of experienced and qualified professionals. This mentorship model ensures that interns not only gain knowledge but also grow in confidence and capability as they navigate their roles within TNPA.
This initiative is particularly critical in today’s job market, where employers are increasingly looking for candidates with both qualifications and experience. Transnet is helping to bridge this gap for unemployed graduates, creating a stepping stone between university life and formal employment.
Who Can Apply?
The opportunity is open to South African citizens aged between 18 and 35 who hold a National Diploma or Degree in Accounting or a closely related field. Applicants must have no prior work experience in their field of study, making this an ideal starting point for fresh graduates.
Importantly, Transnet encourages people living with disabilities to apply, supporting the principles of diversity and inclusion. The programme also gives preference to candidates from the KwaZulu-Natal province, with a strong focus on empowering local communities.
Applicants must also demonstrate key personal qualities and technical skills. These include strong written and verbal communication abilities, good computer skills, and a working knowledge of Microsoft Office tools such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Interns should also have a keen eye for detail, be able to work well in a team, and possess solid problem-solving skills.
What Interns Can Expect
Once accepted into the programme, interns will be placed within the People Management department of TNPA at the Port of Durban. Here, they will report directly to a Human Resources Business Partner who will help guide their learning and development.
Interns will follow a clearly defined training schedule that covers various aspects of finance and administrative work in the public sector. They will be given regular feedback through performance reviews and assessments, ensuring they stay on track with their learning goals.
The programme also offers a unique opportunity to understand the operations of one of Africa’s busiest ports. Interns will gain exposure to the inner workings of port finance and how it supports national logistics, trade, and economic development.
This real-world experience is vital for helping young professionals build their resumes and gain the confidence they need to succeed in competitive job markets.
Application Details
Applicants interested in this opportunity should take note of the reference number req3026 and ensure they apply before the closing date on 30 May 2025. Late submissions will not be considered, and it is the responsibility of each applicant to confirm that their application has been received by the Human Resources department.
To apply, candidates must visit the Transnet careers portal and complete the application process online. This includes submitting all necessary documents and ensuring that personal information is accurate and up to date.
Apply Now!
This internship is more than just work experience; it’s a strategic move for graduates who want to build sustainable careers. Transnet is not only helping to grow individual careers but also contributing to national development by empowering youth with the skills they need to thrive in professional environments.
Successful interns will leave the programme with valuable knowledge, experience, and possibly new opportunities for employment – either within Transnet or elsewhere. In a country where youth unemployment remains high, such initiatives are vital.
For any graduate who dreams of working in finance and making a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s economic future, this internship offers a rare and valuable opportunity.
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