The CDC’s flagship internship programme is a beacon of light for many graduates whose skills are sharpened under the guidance of experienced mentors and seasoned specialists. Interns are provided real and practical work exposure, training and development opportunities. At the same time, they are held accountable for performance as they are expected to make an impact in their areas of operations.

Initially, Coega focused on prioritising skills set in the construction and built environment fields in line with its SEZ and Infrastructure development objectives; however the pool of skills needed has widened, now graduates are brought in from finance and admin, marketing and communications, SHEQ, ICT, and Business Consulting, to mention but a few.

Interns are sourced from the rest of the country in provinces where the CDC has operations. All interns are paid a liveable stipend. Through the programme, the CDC creates a work environment that provides learning opportunities and practical work experience. Interns can choose to stay up to 18 months unless they secure permanent employment, an outcome that is actively encouraged.

As the programme has grown, it has started to have a much wider impact. It continues to contribute positively towards skills development and employment creation for unemployed talented graduates, thereby improving their chances of attaining employment in the highly competitive labour market.