Wind Industry Internship Programme (WIIP)
The Wind Industry Internship Programme (WIIP) is a flagship skills development initiative led by the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) and funded by the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA). The programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic study and employment by providing graduates with meaningful workplace experience within South Africa's wind energy sector.
Over a 12-month period, interns are placed with leading organisations across the renewable energy value chain, where they gain practical experience, develop industry-relevant skills, and build professional networks that support long-term career growth.
The programme plays an important role in developing the next generation of renewable energy professionals while supporting the sector's commitment to transformation, skills development, and inclusive economic growth.
Focus Areas
The wind energy industry requires a diverse range of skills and expertise. Opportunities within the programme include, but are not limited to, the following areas:
| Engineering | Power and Energy |
| Climate and Green Growth | Finance |
| Information Technology | Law |
| Governance and Knowledge Management | Human Resource and Corporate Services |
| Communication & External Relations | Public Relations |
| Environmental Sciences | Infrastructure and Industrialisation |
| Economic Development and Statistics | Procurement and General Services |
| Economic and Development, Statistics | Environmental |
| Town Planning | Social Sciences |
| Gender Studies | Language Services |
Programme Impact
Since its inception, the Wind Industry Internship Programme has created opportunities for young professionals to gain valuable industry experience and launch careers within the renewable energy sector.
Programme highlights include:
Over 3,200 applications received since launch
122 interns successfully placed across the sector
Participation from 48 host companies
36 interns permanently employed following programme completion
EWSETA as the programme funding partner
Through strong collaboration between industry partners, host companies, and skills development stakeholders, WIIP continues to strengthen South Africa's renewable energy talent pipeline and support sustainable job creation.
Applications
Applications for the 2026 Wind Industry Internship Programme are now closed.
SAWEA thanks all graduates and host companies who expressed interest in the programme. Information regarding future application windows will be published on the SAWEA website and communication platforms.
