NFVF PESP7 Digitisation Internships 2026: 200 Assistant Archivist Posts Available

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, is offering 200 Assistant Archivist positions across South Africa through the PESP7 Digitisation Project Internship Programme for 2026. This opportunity is for unemployed South African graduates and youth looking to gain valuable experience in archival work.

Application Closing Date: 03 August 2026 at 16:00
Location: All nine provinces and the National Archives and Records Service of South Africa in Pretoria
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified
Minimum Qualification: Relevant Diploma or Degree

About the NFVF PESP7 Digitisation Project Internships

This internship programme is part of the seventh Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP7). Its main goal is to support the digitisation of records held by the National Archives and Records Service of South Africa and its provincial archives. By converting physical records into digital formats, the project aims to preserve South Africa’s rich documentary, audiovisual, and historical heritage.

Successful candidates will gain practical experience in various archival functions. This includes arrangement and description of records, digitisation, client services, and records management. The project is designed to provide work experience and contribute to the preservation of national heritage.

The programme is expected to start on 24 August 2026 and will run across all nine provinces. This initiative offers a chance for unemployed graduates to contribute to a significant national project while developing their skills.

About the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF)

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is a state entity established by the National Film and Video Foundation Act of 2000. Its mission is to stimulate the effective development and promotion of the South African film industry. The NFVF provides funding for the development, production, and distribution of South African films. They also support film education and training initiatives.

The NFVF plays a key role in preserving and promoting South Africa’s audiovisual heritage. This internship programme aligns with their broader mandate to support the heritage sector and create employment opportunities.

Available Assistant Archivist Posts

There are 200 Assistant Archivist positions available across various provinces and specific sites. Applicants must clearly indicate their preferred location when applying.

• Western Cape: 10 Posts (Cape Town)
• KwaZulu-Natal: 22 Posts (Ulundi, Durban, Pietermaritzburg)
• North West: 22 Posts (Mahikeng)
• Limpopo: 20 Posts (Polokwane, Makwarela, Giyani, Lebowakgomo)
• Mpumalanga: 22 Posts (Mbombela)
• Eastern Cape: 22 Posts (Qonce, Gqeberha, Mthatha)
• Gauteng: 22 Posts (Kagiso, Johannesburg)
• Northern Cape: 22 Posts (Kimberley and districts within specific municipalities)
• Free State: 15 Posts (Bloemfontein)
• NARSSA Pretoria: 23 Posts (National Archives and Records Service of South Africa, Pretoria)

What the Learnership Offers

Successful candidates will gain practical experience and exposure to archival work. Depending on the specific site, duties may include:

• Digitising physical archival records.
• Scanning and organising historical documents.
• Arranging and describing archival collections.
• Supporting records management activities.
• Assisting with oral history projects.
• Preserving film, sound, and documentary records.
• Supporting appraisal and disposal processes.
• Managing reading room services and maintaining strongrooms.
• Providing client and research services.
• Capturing and maintaining digital records.

Programme Duration and Location

The programme is expected to start on 24 August 2026. The duration of the programme is not specified. The internships will be based in various locations across all nine South African provinces, including the National Archives and Records Service of South Africa in Pretoria.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be 35 years of age or younger.
• Have completed a relevant four-year diploma or three-year degree.
• Relevant fields of study include: Archival Studies, Records Management, Information Science, Film Studies, Sound Engineering, Heritage Studies, or Information Technology.
• Candidates who have previously participated in PESP projects are discouraged from applying.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed as formal requirements, successful candidates will likely benefit from possessing the following:

• Strong attention to detail.
• Good organisational skills.
• Willingness to learn and follow instructions.
• Basic computer literacy.
• Good communication skills.
• Ability to work as part of a team.

Who Should Apply?

This internship is ideal for unemployed South African graduates and young individuals who have completed a relevant diploma or degree and are seeking practical experience in the archives and records management sector. If you are passionate about preserving heritage and contributing to digitisation efforts, this opportunity could be a great starting point for your career.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• An updated CV.
• A certified copy of your South African identity document.
• Certified copies of your qualification(s) and relevant certificates.
• A certified copy of a driver’s licence, where applicable.
• A certified Code 10 driver’s licence and Professional Driving Permit where required.

Ensure all documents are clear and correctly attached to your email application.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via email to the National Film and Video Foundation.

Click here to apply for NFVF PESP7 Digitisation Internships 2026

Email Address: [email protected]

When sending your email, please include the relevant job reference number in the subject line. For example: WC.01 - Assistant Archivist. If applying for a specific site within a province that has multiple locations, also state the preferred site. For example: LMP.01 - Assistant Archivist - Polokwane.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Candidates who have previously participated in a Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme project are not eligible to apply.
• If you do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
• The National Film and Video Foundation reserves the right not to make an appointment.
• Ensure all information provided in your application is accurate.

Closing Date

The application closing date for the NFVF PESP7 Digitisation Internships 2026 is Monday, 03 August 2026 at 16:00. Late applications will not be considered. It is advisable to submit your application well before the deadline.

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