SAWS Learnership and Internship Program 2026

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has officially announced its SAWS learnership and internship program for the 2026 academic year. This initiative provides unemployed South African youth with an exceptional opportunity to gain technical skills, work experience, and professional qualifications in meteorology and weather observation.

This fully funded opportunity empowers young people to take their first step into a scientific and technical field that plays a critical role in climate awareness, aviation safety, and national development.

The program aims to attract passionate individuals interested in forecasting, meteorology, and environmental science, ensuring South Africa remains globally competitive in weather and climate services.

The SAWS learnership and internship program 2026 offers two distinct training opportunities:

• Forecasting Internship (Postgraduate Certificate in Weather Forecasting) – Reference: REF. FOI: 01/11/2026

• National Certificate: Weather Observations Learnership – Reference: REF. NCW: 01/11/2026

Both programs will commence in February 2026 at the SAWS Head Office and the Regional Training Centre in Pretoria.

About the South African Weather Service (SAWS)

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) is the national meteorological authority responsible for providing weather and climate-related services. It plays a key role in research, forecasting, and environmental monitoring.

SAWS supports sectors such as aviation, agriculture, disaster management, and marine operations through accurate weather information and predictive modeling.

Through the SAWS learnership and internship program, the organization continues its mission to strengthen South Africa’s capacity in meteorological sciences and to build a diverse, skilled workforce for the future.

Programme Overview

A) Forecasting Internship (Postgraduate Certificate in Weather Forecasting)

Reference Number: REF. FOI: 01/11/2026
The forecasting internship forms part of the SAWS learnership and internship program, focusing on developing advanced meteorological forecasting skills among postgraduate students. The one-year full-time bursary is offered at the SAWS Head Office in Pretoria.

Who Should Apply

Applicants must hold an Honours Degree in Meteorology or Atmospheric Sciences. The qualification should include at least:

• Mathematics at the second-year university level, and

• Physical Sciences at the first-year university level.

Additionally, candidates must have completed the required Dynamical Meteorology courses as prescribed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), meeting WMO BIP-M compliance (or near compliance) according to the WMO-1083 Version 2023 standards.

This course equips participants with practical forecasting expertise, ensuring they are ready to support the South African public and industries that rely on precise weather information.

Documents Required

Applicants for this stream of the SAWS learnership and internship program must include:

• A certified copy of their Matric certificate

• A certified copy of their full academic record (to verify courses completed)

• A certified copy of their South African ID

B) National Certificate: Weather Observations Learnership

Reference Number: REF. NCW: 01/11/2026
The Weather Observation Learnership under the SAWS learnership and internship program provides a one-year, full-time qualification in Weather Observation (SAQA QUAL ID 58995) or the QCTO-accredited Occupational Qualification: Meteorological Technician.

This learnership is offered at the SAWS Regional Training Centre in Pretoria, where learners will be trained in all aspects of weather observation.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
• Grade 12 certificate with:

• At least 50% in Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy),

• 50% in Physical Science, and

• 50% in English.

These subjects ensure learners have the foundational skills needed for technical training in meteorology.

After successful completion of the learnership, candidates may be appointed at regional SAWS offices across the country. Since this involves shift work, learners must possess or obtain a valid driver’s license within the training year — at their own cost.

Good interpersonal relations, discipline, and computer literacy are highly recommended qualities for this role.

Training Benefits and Opportunities

Participating in the SAWS learnership and internship program offers multiple long-term advantages. Successful candidates will:

• Receive a monthly stipend throughout the training period.

• Gain practical experience in a scientific and operational environment.

• Obtain nationally recognized qualifications in forecasting or weather observation.

• Develop transferable skills in data analysis, computer modeling, and technical reporting.

• Increase their employability within SAWS or related environmental and research sectors.

For learners with a passion for science and problem-solving, this program represents a solid steppingstone toward a sustainable career.

Eligibility Criteria for the SAWS Learnership and Internship Program

Applicants must:

• Be South African citizens.

• Be unemployed youth willing to undergo full-time training.

• Meet the educational and qualification requirements for each stream.

• Demonstrate strong motivation to pursue a career in meteorology or environmental science.

• Have good communication skills, teamwork ability, and a professional attitude.

The SAWS learnership and internship program is open to candidates from all backgrounds, but preference will be given to individuals from previously disadvantaged communities and female applicants in line with the Employment Equity Act (Act 55 of 1998).

How to Apply for the SAWS Learnership and Internship Program 2026

All applications must be submitted using the official SA Weather Service Full-Time Bursary Application Form (2026). The form can be downloaded directly from the official website:
👉 www.weathersa.co.za

Step-by-Step Application Guide

• Download the Application Form
Visit the SA Weather Service website and navigate to the “Careers” or “Training and Development” section to download the Full-Time Bursary Application Form.

• Prepare Required Documents
Gather and certify all supporting documents, including:

• Matric certificate

• Full academic record (where applicable)

• South African ID copy

• Driver’s license (if available)

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Motivation letter explaining your interest

• Certified copies of any tertiary qualifications

• Complete the Form Accurately

Fill out every section clearly and honestly. Incomplete or incorrect information may result in disqualification.

• Quote the Correct Reference Number

• For the Forecasting Internship, use: REF. FOI: 01/11/2026

• For the Weather Observation Learnership, use: REF. NCW: 01/11/2026

• Email Your Application
CV and supporting documents to:
📩 training1@weathersa.co.za
For attention: Learning and Development

• Use the Correct Email Subject Line
In the subject line, include:
“Your Name and Surname – Reference Number (e.g., REF. NCW: 01/11/2026)”

Important Application Notes

• Closing Date: 7 November 2025

• Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

• Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

• If you have not received a response within one month after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

• The South African Weather Service reserves the right not to allocate bursaries should circumstances change.

Commitment to Employment Equity

The South African Weather Service is an equal opportunity employer. The organization is deeply committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and gender equality.

Through the SAWS learnership and internship program, it aims to empower youth from underrepresented groups by providing them with access to quality education and work experience in science and technology.

Why You Should Apply for the SAWS Learnership and Internship Program 2026

The SAWS learnership and internship program is not just about studying — it’s about building a career. Here’s why it’s worth your application:

• You’ll be part of a globally respected organization that contributes to climate science.

• You’ll develop real-world technical experience in a national meteorological service.

• You’ll have access to career mentoring and professional networks.

• You’ll earn a stipend while gaining valuable skills.

• You’ll contribute to national safety and development, from aviation to agriculture.

If you’re passionate about weather, data, and scientific innovation — this is your opportunity to start strong.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Start Early – Gather and certify your documents before the closing date.

• Be Specific – Clearly indicate which program you’re applying for.

• Show Motivation – Write a strong motivation letter that highlights your enthusiasm for meteorology.

• Follow Instructions – Use the correct reference number and subject line when emailing.

• Stay Professional – Ensure your CV is updated and free of errors.

Taking the time to prepare properly can make a significant difference in your application’s success.

What to Expect After Applying

If shortlisted, you may be contacted for:

• Interviews or assessments,

• Verification of qualifications, and

• Final selection confirmation for training placement.

Successful candidates will begin training in February 2026, either as Forecasting Interns or Weather Observation Learners, depending on their stream.

Application Process

• Visit www.weathersa.co.za and download the Full-Time Bursary Application Form (2026).

• Complete the form in full and attach:

• Certified Matric certificate

• Certified ID

• Full academic record

• Motivation letter and CV

• Proof of qualification (where applicable)

• Email your full application to: training1@weathersa.co.za

• Use the correct subject line with your name and reference number.

• Submit before the closing date: 7 November 2025.

Final Thoughts

The SAWS learnership and internship program 2026 represents more than just an educational opportunity — it’s a national initiative designed to build a skilled, diverse, and innovative meteorological workforce.

For young South Africans passionate about science, climate change, and technology, this program provides a direct pathway into one of the most respected scientific institutions in the country. Whether you’re aiming to forecast storms or collect weather data in the field, this is your chance to contribute to something bigger — South Africa’s environmental future.

Don’t wait. Take the first step and apply today for the SAWS learnership and internship program 2026 before the closing date.

Closing Date: 7 November 2025
Email: training1@weathersa.co.za
Website: www.weathersa.co.za

Other learnerships 

• Apply for YES4Youth Programme at Wits Health Consortium 

• Apply for YES4Youth Programme at Eskom 

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Written by the Daily Spark Team
(www.dailyspark.co.za is not affiliated with the Department; we only share verified public opportunities to help South Africans access training and employment.)