South Africa’s energy landscape is rapidly evolving, and the Petroleum Agency South Africa (PASA) serves as a crucial institution managing national petroleum exploration and production rights. Beyond its regulatory and promotional mandate, PASA is dedicated to youth development through targeted skills transfer initiatives. The PASA Internship Programme 2026 stands out as a significant opportunity for South African graduates seeking practical industry experience and career development in the strategic energy sector.
Programme Details
- Duration: 24 months (Full-time)
- Start Date: February 2026
- Location: PASA Head Office, Cape Town
- Funding: Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA)
The internship programme offers structured, real-world exposure far beyond basic work shadowing. Interns actively participate in sector-specific projects and receive mentoring and professional development opportunities.
Internship Streams Offered
While the final disciplines for 2026 will be announced closer to the start date, previous programmes have included the following streams:
- Technical Compliance (Engineering)
- Targeted at graduates in petroleum, mechanical, or chemical engineering
- Focus: Drilling operations, well design, production monitoring, and technical regulatory compliance
- Licensing and Legal Affairs
- Designed for law graduates
- Focus: Contract drafting, permit application review, and policy enforcement
- Corporate Governance & Company Secretariat
- For business, governance, or legal graduates
- Focus: Corporate compliance, company records, governance protocols, and statutory communication
All streams incorporate hands-on experience, personalized mentorship, and involvement in professional development workshops and activities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be unemployed graduates who have not participated in a previous internship programme
- Hold a relevant tertiary qualification from a recognized institution
- Commit to the entire 24-month programme
Required Application Documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Degree certificate or academic transcript
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter tailored to the selected internship stream
Significance
The PASA Internship Programme 2026 contributes to national priorities in two main ways:
- Development of Skilled Energy Professionals:
Participants gain essential technical, regulatory, and business competencies needed for South Africa to ensure energy security and environmentally sustainable resource management. - Youth Employment and Capacity Building:
The programme creates entry pathways for young professionals, supporting both public and private sector career advancement through skill acquisition, mentorship, and network-building.
How to Apply
Send the following documents: Covering Letter, CV, and certified supporting documents.
Email applications to: internship26-27@petroleumagencysa.com
(Include the specific internship programme reference in the subject line, e.g., Internship 26-27: Environmental Compliance).
Important Information
- Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups as per national labour legislation.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
- If you do not hear back within 4 weeks of application, consider your application unsuccessful.
- Late applications will not be considered.
Conclusion
For South African graduates invested in the country’s energy future, the PASA Internship Programme 2026 offers a robust foundation with substantial career impact. Successful applicants will not only gain valuable industry knowledge and skills but will also establish connections that facilitate career growth in a vital, ever-changing field.
