The South African Weather Services (SAWS) Bursaries, Internships, and Learnerships 2026
In 2026, South African Weather Services (SAWS) will have bursaries, internships, and learnerships. These will be available for South African citizens and will be offered for educational and career development. Students and graduates pursuing careers in meteorology and meteorology related fields will have until November 7, 2025, to apply. The facilities in Pretoria, South Africa will provide a scientific and dynamic environment where participants will be able to learn with their peers.
The goal of SAWS bursary, internship and learnership programs will be to assist successful applicants by paying for their studies and providing them exposure to the weather and climate field. Participants will be provided with tuition coverage, and will be able to earn a stipend, gain work experience and be able to complete the learnership pathway to employment in South Africa’s meteorology sector.
SAWS Opportunities for 2026
SAWS will have 3 opportunities for interested applicants in 2026:
1. Forecasting Internship – Postgraduate Certificate in Weather Forecasting
Reference: FOI:01/11/2026
The Forecasting Internship is one full year program for students with an Honours Degree in Meteorology or Atmospheric Sciences. This internship is located at the SAWS Head Office in Pretoria and will take place in February 2026.
Eligibility:
• Honours Degree in Meteorology or Atmospheric Sciences
• Mathematics at second year university level and Physical Science at first year level
• Qualifications that comply or are close to WMO BIP-M standards (WMO-1083, 2023)
Application Requirements:
• Matric results and full academic record (certified copy)
• ID document (certified copy)
• Relevant degrees (certified copies)
• Motivation letter and CV
• SAWS Bursary Application Form (completed)
Bursary Coverage:
• Tuition covered fully for the entire program
• A stipend for living expenses
Desired Qualifications:
• Good people skills
• Some knowledge in using a computer
This program is excellent to help kick start graduates’ careers in weather forecasting and atmospheric research.
2. BSc Honours in Meteorology Bursary
Reference: HONS:01/10/2026
SAWS provide bursaries to students for the BSc Honours in Meteorology, students need to attend a South African university for their studies. Applicants need to submit proof of registration or a letter from their university.
Application Documents:
Registered copies of Matrix results and academic transcripts
Registered copy of BSc certificate (if applicable)
Registered copy of South African ID
Motivation letter and testimonial
SAWS Full-Time Bursary Application form
Bursary Benefits:
Full settlement of university tuition for the entire study period
Monthly allowance
Recommended Attributes:
Excellent interpersonal skills
Elementary computer skills
This bursary suits students working towards a solid academic study in meteorology and a professional career in the field of weather and climate science.
3. National Certificate: Weather Observations Learnership
Reference: NCW:01/11/2026
This Weather Observations Learnership is a 12-month course offered at the SAWS Regional Training Centre, based in Pretoria. Learners are trained in weather observing and after successful completion, may be assigned to any of the SAWS regional offices.
Minimum Requirements:
Grade 12 (Matric) with 50% pass in Mathematics, Physical Science, and English
You should have a driver’s license (or must obtain one during the learnership at your own cost)
Application Documents:
Certified copies of your Matric results and SA ID document
If you have it, a certified copy of your driver’s license
Motivation letter and CV (that provides details)
Completed SAWS Full-Time Bursary Application Form
Bursary Benefits:
Learnership will come with a monthly stipend
Important Notes:
Application from women and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds is strongly encouraged by SAWS. After the training, successful learners will be employed on a permanent basis at regional offices, from where they will be able to build a career in weather observation.
How to Apply and Additional Opportunities
All applications are to be submitted by 7 November 2025. It is recommended to the applicant to collect the required documents, certified copies of the academic records, and the identification, because incomplete applications may be disregarded.
Alongside the regulard bursary, internship, and learnership offerings, SAWS also allows students the opportunity to:
Obtain meteorology textbooks and weather forecasting tools and software
Join accredited weather observation training courses
Review South African universities with meteorology programs
Access career and professional development services
While all of these programs assist with the development of the learner’s particular area of study, additional practical experience and skill are obtained at one of the leading weather services in South Africa.
How to Apply
Email applications to: training1@weathersa.co.za
For attention: Learning and Development
Important Notes:
- Use the correct Reference Number, Your Name, and Surname in the email subject line.
- Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
- If you do not receive feedback within a month after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
- SAWS reserves the right not to allocate bursaries
The South African Weather Service’s bursaries, internships, and learnerships for 2026 provide a wonderful opportunity for anyone interested in meteorology and climate sciences. It ranges from undergraduate bursaries to professional internships and covers every level of the spectrum to develop and enhance skillset and career advancement in professions that are extremely important to the country’s environment and economy.
