MDA Training 2026 Learning Skills Programme: Apply Now for a 12-Month AI and Technology Internship
South Africa’s largest media brand, Media24, has opened applications for the MDA Training 2026 Learning Skills Programme—a high-impact, 12-month internship designed for graduates who want to build careers in artificial intelligence, cloud technology, and digital innovation. The programme offers practical, real-world experience across leading digital news platforms such as News24, Netwerk24, Daily Sun and other top brands within the Media24 ecosystem.
Applications Open for Media24’s 12-Month AI Internship Under the MDA Training 2026 Programme
For tech-driven graduates seeking hands-on exposure, industry mentorship and structured skills development, this programme presents one of the strongest early-career opportunities in South Africa for 2026.
Overview of the MDA Training 2026 Learning Skills Programme
The MDA Training Programme is a full-time, structured internship that blends workplace learning with advanced technology training. Interns work within Media24 Technology teams, gaining exposure to cloud platforms, AI development tools, data-driven problem-solving, and cross-functional product innovation.
This 12-month internship is specifically aimed at graduates who want to build a strong technical foundation while contributing meaningfully to South Africa’s leading digital media brands.
What Interns Will Be Doing During the 12-Month Programme
The programme combines technical learning, applied research, and hands-on project execution. Interns will work alongside experienced software engineers, AI specialists and product teams.
1. Learning cutting-edge technology
Media24 uses cloud platforms and modern AI technologies across its digital brands. Interns will gain exposure to:
- Cloud-based development environments
- AI frameworks
- Data pipelines
- Scalable system architectures
This foundational training enables interns to apply theory in real industry scenarios.
2. Working in collaborative, cross-functional teams
You will join multidisciplinary teams including data scientists, developers, designers and engineers. The internship emphasises teamwork, agile practices and effective communication within technology teams.
3. Developing AI-focused projects
Interns participate in the full lifecycle of AI project development, including:
- Concept creation
- Data collection and preprocessing
- Model development and training
- Evaluation and optimisation
- Deployment and maintenance
You will also help design scalable AI systems using multiple programming languages and development tools.
4. Conducting research and staying up to date
As part of the internship, you will explore the latest AI methodologies, emerging technologies and global best practices. Research and continuous learning form a core part of the programme structure.
Minimum Requirements for Applicants
Media24 does not expect prior work experience, but applicants must meet the academic and foundational criteria listed below.
Required Qualifications
Applicants must hold one of the following:
- BSc Hons degree, Electronics Engineering, or equivalent qualification
- Subjects including Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science
- Applicants with proven programming experience and a minimum 65% pass rate are also considered
- Second- or third-year level Maths and Statistics is preferred
Other Requirements
- South African citizenship
- Ability to implement and apply fundamental AI algorithms
- Basic understanding of AI techniques such as:
- Linear regression
- Logistic regression
- Random forests
- Boosted trees
- Multilayer perceptron
These may be introductory, but foundational knowledge is essential for the programme.
Preferred Attributes and Skills
Media24 seeks candidates who are technically curious, eager to learn and comfortable working in a fast-paced technology environment.
Ideal candidates are:
- Based in Cape Town and willing to work from the office daily
- Curious, analytical and eager to solve problems
- Able to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively
- Strong communicators who ask questions and seek guidance
- Passionate about technology, media and innovation
- Meticulous, organised and comfortable with ambiguity
These qualities help interns excel within Media24’s collaborative and high-performance teams.
What Successful Applicants Will Gain from the Programme
The MDA Training 2026 Programme offers one of the most comprehensive early-career tech development opportunities in the country. Benefits include:
1. Real workplace experience in software development and AI
Interns work directly on active Media24 projects, gaining experience in real operational environments.
2. A full 12-month internship contract
This includes placement at Media24’s modern Cape Town Foreshore office.
3. Exposure to key AI and data science domains
Interns participate in multiple rotations, including:
- Natural language processing
- Predictive analytics
- Machine learning pipelines
- AI-driven newsroom technology
4. Professional mentorship
Experienced engineers and AI specialists provide guidance, code reviews and ongoing support.
5. Opportunities for formal development and certification
Interns may pursue additional learning through online platforms and internal training resources.
6. Possibilities for further studies
Media24 encourages continued academic and professional growth.
7. A structured, supportive learning environment
The programme emphasises continuous development, hands-on practice and teamwork across multiple technology disciplines.
Applicants are required to upload copies of their academic results as part of the submission process.
Employment Equity Consideration
In line with Media24’s employment equity policy, preference will be given to candidates from designated groups. However, all eligible South African applicants are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply for the MDA Training 2026 Programme
Applications must be submitted online through the official Media24 recruitment portal.
Apply via:
https://media24.simplify.hr/Vacancy/161560
Applicants should prepare:
- Certified copies of academic transcripts
- Updated CV
- Proof of qualification or enrollment
Only online applications will be accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long is the MDA Training Programme?
It is a 12-month full-time internship based in Cape Town.
2. Do I need previous work experience?
No. This programme is designed for recent graduates with no work experience.
3. What fields of study are accepted?
Degrees in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Electronics Engineering, or related fields with strong programming and analytical components.
4. Will interns be paid?
As an internship programme, compensation details are typically provided during the recruitment stage.
5. Is the programme in-office or hybrid?
It is fully in-office at the Media24 Foreshore office in Cape Town.
6. Are international applicants accepted?
No. Only South African citizens may apply.
7. What AI skills are required?
Basic understanding of machine learning algorithms and a willingness to learn more complex techniques.
Final Thoughts
The MDA Training 2026 Learning Skills Programme offers a rare and valuable opportunity for South African graduates to gain direct experience in artificial intelligence, cloud technology and digital product development. With access to industry experts, real-world projects and structured learning pathways, this internship is ideal for graduates who want to launch a meaningful career in one of the country’s most advanced technology environments.
Apply early to secure your chance to join Media24 Technology’s 2026 intake.
