Thembelihle Radebe
The City of Johannesburg Council has taken a significant step toward strengthening youth development and economic inclusion by approving an increase in the monthly stipend for undergraduate interns. This decision was made during its 48th Extraordinary Council meeting on 31 March 2026. Effective from 1 July 2026, the monthly stipend for student interns will increase from R3,500.00 to R4,951.88.
The adjustment aligns with the current national minimum wage and reflects the City’s commitment to ensuring fair compensation for young people entering the workforce through structured development programmes.
This initiative forms part of the City’s broader contribution to South Africa’s National Skills Development Agenda. By investing in youth through learnerships, internships, and bursaries, the City demonstrates its commitment to empowering unemployed individuals within the Johannesburg community. These programmes are designed not only to provide financial support but also to equip participants with practical skills and workplace experience that enhance their employability.
The City’s internship programme, as defined in its Group Training and Development Policy Framework, is a strategic intervention aimed at bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world work experience. Interns are placed in structured environments where they gain hands-on exposure under the guidance of experienced workplace mentors. This mentorship plays a crucial role in supporting their professional growth and preparing them for future employment opportunities.
Importantly, the stipend increase will apply to both current and future interns, ensuring that all participants benefit from the improved conditions. The City has also indicated that stipend levels will be reviewed periodically, taking into account financial sustainability and subject to approval by the Mayoral Committee.
City departments are also required to allocate budgets for youth development as part of their Workplace Skills Plans. This ensures that internship programmes remain a priority across all departments and continue to contribute meaningfully to skills development objectives.
The initiative aligns with national legislation, including the Skills Development Act (1998) and the Skills Development Levies Act (1999), both of which aim to transform workplaces into active learning environments and promote continuous skills development across the country.
The increase represents more than just a financial adjustment but a reaffirmation of the City of Joburg’s commitment to nurturing young talent, reducing unemployment and building a more skilled and inclusive workforce for the future.
SOURCED FROM THE CITY’S WEBSITE.
