The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), operating under the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), is inviting applications for its Innovation and Creativity Graduate Internship Programme 2025.
With five internship positions available at the CIPC Sunnyside Office in Pretoria, this opportunity offers ambitious South African graduates the chance to gain valuable legal, governance, and intellectual property experience while contributing to innovation in public service.
About the CIPC Graduate Internship Programme
The programme is designed for graduates with strong academic backgrounds in law and related fields. It focuses on developing professional skills in:
- Corporate governance
- Legal compliance
- Intellectual property management
- Innovation and strategic thinking
Duration: 24 months of structured workplace training
Monthly stipend: R12,000
Minimum Qualifications Required
Applicants must hold one of the following qualifications from a recognised higher education institution:
- BA Law / BCom Law – NQF Level 7
- LLB – NQF Level 8
This is a full-time internship intended for graduates who have not yet gained formal work experience.
Why Internships Matter
Since 2002, the South African Cabinet has recognised internships as an essential part of the country’s skills development strategy. They allow graduates to:
- Gain hands-on work experience
- Apply academic knowledge in real workplace settings
- Build professional networks
- Improve employability in competitive industries
For many, this internship is more than a placement – it’s a stepping stone toward meaningful careers in law, governance, or corporate regulation.
Who Should Apply?
You can apply if you:
- Are a South African citizen aged 18–35
- Hold a relevant degree or diploma
- Have never been employed in formal work
- Have not previously taken part in any internship programme
- Are committed to innovation, creativity, and professional excellence
Application Requirements
When applying, ensure you upload all required documents in the correct sections, as failure to do so will result in automatic disqualification.
You will need:
- Comprehensive, updated CV
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Official academic transcript (merged with your qualification certificate into one file under the “supporting documents” section)
Successful candidates must sign a Graduate Internship Programme Agreement with the CIPC before starting.
How to Apply
Applicants must upload all documents correctly as part of the online application process. Missing or incorrectly uploaded documents will disqualify you.
Apply for the CIPC Innovation and Creativity Graduate Internship Programme here
Why Join CIPC?
CIPC plays a key role in regulating South Africa’s business and intellectual property environment. Interns will gain exposure to:
- Corporate law & compliance frameworks
- Intellectual property rights
- Innovation strategies shaping entrepreneurship in South Africa
This programme offers practical skills, mentorship, and industry insights that few entry-level opportunities can match.
Final Note
With only five positions available, this is a competitive and career-changing internship for graduates eager to make an impact. If you have a passion for law, innovation, and contributing to South Africa’s economic growth, apply before the deadline.
Closing Date: 25 August 2025