Are you a young South African with a passion for technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI)? The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is offering a one-year IT internship called the Grow-IT programme, focusing on AI. This opportunity is ideal for individuals looking to gain practical experience in the Business Solutions and Technology Department.

To qualify, you need a National Diploma in IT (NQF Level 6) or a relevant Bachelor's or BTech degree. If you meet these educational requirements and are between 18 and 35 years old, you can apply for this exciting programme. Applications close on April 30, 2026.

About the Grow-IT AI Programme

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) invites applications for its Grow-IT internship programme. This 12-month opportunity is based in the Business Solutions and Technology Department and focuses on Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The programme aims to provide young South Africans with valuable hands-on experience in key IT areas. There is a possibility that the contract may be extended after the initial year.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements

  • Minimum Qualification: You need a National Diploma in IT (NQF Level 6), a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or IT with AI/data engineering experience (NQF Level 6), or a BTech degree in Computer Science Engineering, AI and Machine Learning, or Data Science (NQF Level 7).
  • Age Limit: You must be between 18 and 35 years old.
  • Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
  • Personal Attributes: You should be curious, self-motivated, and innovative.
  • Additional Documents Required: A certified copy of your latest academic record, your Curriculum Vitae (CV), and a copy of your South African Identity Document (ID).

Advantageous Skills

While not strictly required, certain skills will give you an advantage. These include familiarity with cloud platforms such as Google Cloud, AWS, or Microsoft Azure. Experience with the Python programming language is also beneficial.

A basic understanding of Model Context Protocol (MCP) would further strengthen your application. If you possess these skills, be sure to highlight them in your CV.

Important Dates

Posting Date: March 18, 2026

Application Closing Date: April 30, 2026

Interviews will be scheduled after the closing date, but specific dates have not been specified.

Preference for Designated Groups

SARB is committed to transformation and employment equity. Therefore, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups, including people with disabilities.

This is a great chance to start your IT career with the South African Reserve Bank, focusing on the cutting edge of Artificial Intelligence. Make sure you have all your documents ready, including your academic records, CV, and ID.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable experience. All applications must be submitted online before the closing date of April 30, 2026. We encourage you to apply early to avoid any last-minute issues.

Ready to apply? Visit the official SARB website before the closing date of April 30, 2026.