18 February 2025
Stellenbosch Municipality is proud to be at the forefront of offering young people opportunities to gain valuable job experience and work-integrated learning, helping them take critical steps toward entering the workforce. Between 2022 and 2024, nearly 70 students have successfully completed internships in various departments, including engineering, human resources, planning and economic development.
The Municipality’s Internship and Work Integrated Learning Programme, which is managed by our Skills Development Section, has grown steadily over the past few years. Educational institutions and students interested in placements can submit requests to the Municipality, where the programme ensures that every placed intern receives a fulfilling and enriching experience.
A key component of this programme is the appointment of a dedicated coach and mentor within each department. These professionals ensure that students receive the guidance and practical support they need to build their skills, gain insight into the inner workings of local government and enhance their employability. Each department works to create a comprehensive rotation plan for the interns. This plan ensures that students receive exposure to different areas within the department, providing them with a broad range of experience and hands-on learning opportunities that are crucial for their professional growth.
“Providing young people with access to practical work experience is essential for building their capacity to succeed in the workforce,” said Executive Mayor Jeremy Fasser. “Not only does this programme help students gain critical skills but it also plays a role in assisting various departments with job-related tasks, administrative functions and support services. Our interns contribute meaningfully to the day-to-day operations of the Municipality, and we are proud to see their development.”
These internship opportunities are particularly valuable for local youth, many of whom come from the Stellenbosch community. By providing these young people with work exposure, the Municipality is helping to bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that students are better prepared to enter the competitive job market.
We remain committed to working with educational institutions to expand the Internship and Work Integrated Learning Programme – nurturing the next generation of professionals and equipping them with the skills they need to succeed in their careers.
