Sasol Foundation Graduate Internship Programme 2026 – A Career starter for South African Graduates
The Sasol Foundation Graduate Internship Programme is one of South Africa’s most sought-after opportunities for recent graduates seeking hands-on experience in a global chemicals and energy company. Sasol, with a 75-year legacy, combines innovation, diversity, and career development to help young professionals gain practical skills and industry exposure. This programme is designed for South African citizens aged 18–29 who are currently unemployed and reside within Sasol local communities such as Secunda, Sasolburg, and Ekandustria.
Why It Matters / Opportunities
Graduates selected for this programme receive two years of workplace experience in various Sasol Business Units aligned with their field of study. The internship equips participants with:
- Industry-specific skills and training
- Mentorship and professional guidance
- Exposure to corporate culture and operations
- Opportunities for career growth within Sasol and beyond
Fields covered in the programme include Digital Marketing, Data Science, IT, Finance, Engineering, Law, Human Resources, Project Management, and more. This diversity ensures that graduates from multiple disciplines can contribute meaningfully and grow professionally.
How to Apply / What to Expect
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- South African citizenship
- Age between 18–29 years
- Currently unemployed
- Residing within a 50km radius of Sasol sites
- Completed a relevant bachelor’s degree in a listed field
To apply, interested candidates should follow Sasol’s online application process through their official careers portal Sasol Careers. The programme is a fixed-term contract for 24 months, offering structured development and real-world work experience.
Applicants should note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 60 days of the closing date. The closing date for applications is 10 March 2026.
Common Challenges
While this internship is highly rewarding, applicants should be aware of potential challenges:
- High competition due to limited spots (22 positions for 2026)
- Meeting eligibility requirements precisely (age, residence, education)
- Adapting to a corporate work environment for the first time
- Managing expectations regarding employment post-internship
Tips for Success
- Tailor your application to your field of study and highlight relevant projects or volunteer work.
- Emphasize local residency if you live in Sasol communities.
- Prepare for assessment tests if invited, as Sasol uses automated screening.
- Demonstrate alignment with Sasol’s values, including innovation, inclusion, and sustainability.
Useful Resources
- Sasol Careers Portal – Apply and track your application
- Department of Employment and Labour – Guidance for internships in South Africa
- WikiHii Job Application Guides – Tips for graduate applications
How This Internship Adds Value to Your Career
The Sasol Foundation Graduate Internship Programme is more than just a temporary work experience—it’s a strategic opportunity to accelerate your professional growth. By participating in this programme, graduates gain:
- Practical Industry Skills – Work alongside experienced professionals and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, whether in engineering, finance, marketing, or law.
- Professional Networking – Build connections with mentors, peers, and industry leaders, which can open doors to future career opportunities.
- Career Readiness – Learn workplace dynamics, project management, and corporate communication, preparing you to thrive in South Africa’s competitive job market.
- Enhanced Employability – A structured two-year internship on your CV demonstrates commitment, adaptability, and hands-on experience, which employers value highly.
- Access to Development Programmes – Sasol offers mentorship, training, and workshops, ensuring that you not only work but grow as a professional during the internship.
Participating in this programme signals to future employers that you are proactive, skilled, and prepared to contribute meaningfully to any organisation. It is an investment in your career, making you stand out in a crowded job market.
Conclusion
The Sasol Foundation Graduate Internship Programme offers South African graduates a unique chance to gain meaningful experience, develop essential skills, and start their careers on a strong footing. With Sasol’s focus on diversity, inclusion, and professional growth, this programme is not just an internship—it’s a stepping stone to a promising career in the chemicals and energy sector.
Apply before 10 March 2026 and take your first step toward an impactful career with Sasol.
