Explore the DataOrbis 2026 Graduate Programme in Cape Town. Gain real experience in tech and data analytics with a structured 12-month learning journey.

Introduction: A New Beginning for South Africa’s Emerging Tech Talent

Graduating from university is a moment filled with excitement, ambition and hope. But it is also a moment many young South Africans describe as confusing. You step into the world with a qualification, yet the path ahead often feels unclear. Employers want experience; graduates need someone willing to give them that experience.

The Smollan DataOrbis Graduate Programme 2026 was created to bridge this gap.

This is not a traditional internship where graduates observe from the sidelines. It is a structured, SETA-funded 12-month programme based in Cape Town that immerses participants into the fast-moving world of data, retail technology, and digital transformation. For graduates eager to work with real business systems, real industry challenges, and real data, this programme offers an opportunity that is both meaningful and career-defining.

For those passionate about data analysis, information systems, or technology innovation, the Smollan DataOrbis Graduate Programme provides not just a job, but a starting point to build a strong professional identity.

Why This Programme Matters in Today’s Digital World

Retail and consumer industries have evolved dramatically in the past decade. The rise of digital transactions, online shopping, consumer insights, automated systems and data-driven business strategies has transformed the way companies operate.

Data is now the backbone of modern business.

Every decision companies make today relies on accurate information. Retailers and brands depend on data to understand customer behaviour, supply chain performance, sales patterns, and emerging trends. Behind this data is a growing need for skilled graduates who understand analytics, technology and digital strategy.

This increasing demand is exactly why Smollan and DataOrbis designed this programme: to help young professionals develop the specialised skills needed to succeed in a rapidly shifting industry.

The 2026 intake is designed to expose graduates to the entire ecosystem that drives retail technology and data innovation, making this one of the most relevant graduate programmes in the country.

Useful Links:

• Various Learnerships
• Accredited SETA Programmes
• Youth Opportunities

Inside the Smollan and DataOrbis Ecosystem

Before diving into the details of the programme, it helps to understand the environment you would be joining.

Smollan is a global leader in retail solutions, working behind the scenes to help brands grow their visibility, performance and market strategy. DataOrbis, the technology division within Smollan, focuses on data intelligence, digital solutions, system development and the tools that help businesses make informed decisions.

Together, they form an ecosystem where:

• Retail data meets technology
• Technology meets innovation
• Innovation meets human insight

This ecosystem is ideal for graduates who want to discover how digital systems support real-world retail operations and how data analytics drives strategic decision-making.

A Structured Pathway Designed for Graduate Success

The Smollan DataOrbis Graduate Programme is thoughtfully designed to support graduates through a full year of learning, practical exposure and professional development. You are not simply placed into a job; you are guided, trained, and supported through each step.

Below is a closer look at what your journey will include.

Hands-On Practical Training

From the first week, graduates are placed directly into the DataOrbis business environment. You will work on real projects and gain experience with:

• Data gathering and cleansing
• Data processing and transformation
• Retail data dashboards
• Client reporting
• Technology-driven solutions
• Systems support
• Problem solving using real business constraints

This hands-on exposure teaches you how to move from theoretical understanding to real operational performance. You develop practical confidence, which is something employers look for when hiring analysts and technology professionals.

Workshops Focused on Personal and Professional Growth

Beyond technical skills, the programme includes structured workshops tailored to improve your workplace readiness.

These workshops include:

• Communication and presentation development
• Workplace professionalism
• Time management and task prioritisation
• Adaptability and problem-solving techniques
• Critical thinking
• Collaborative team dynamics
• Professional confidence building

These sessions ensure graduates not only develop analytical competence but also become well-rounded professionals capable of thriving in corporate environments.

Guided Mentorship and Support

High-quality mentorship is a core part of the Smollan DataOrbis experience. Each graduate is placed under the guidance of experienced analysts, data specialists, and technology leaders who support your progress and help you celebrate every milestone.

Mentors help you:

• Understand the expectations of the role
• Build soft skills
• Navigate challenges
• Receive feedback constructively
• Learn industry standards
• Develop professional maturity

Having someone invested in your growth is a significant advantage—especially in your first year of employment.

What Your Day-to-Day Role Could Look Like

To better understand the programme, it helps to imagine what a typical workday might include. While responsibilities vary depending on the team you join, most participants can expect a combination of analytical work, technical exposure and collaborative problem-solving.

Data Analysis and Reporting

You may work with raw datasets, clean them, analyse them and help generate insights that businesses rely on. This might involve dashboards, spreadsheets, or digital reporting systems.

Technology and Digital System Support

You may assist in maintaining or improving internal systems, diagnosing issues, or supporting user queries related to data technology.

Client Interaction

Depending on your role, you may attend meetings, contribute to discussions, or support project teams engaging with client needs.

Market and Industry Research

Retail technology changes constantly. Staying informed about new tools, trends and solutions may form part of your responsibilities.

Collaboration Across Departments

Graduate participants often work with teams across DataOrbis and Smollan, learning how interconnected modern businesses really are.

This variety gives graduates the kind of exposure that builds both skill and confidence.

Programme Benefits at a Glance

The Smollan DataOrbis Graduate Programme is designed to support graduates financially, educationally, and professionally.

Here is what the programme offers:

Duration:

12 months

Start Date:

1 February 2026

Monthly Stipend:

R8 000

Location:

Cape Town

Available Positions:

3

Work Environment:

A diverse, modern workplace focused on innovation, inclusion, and continuous development

This setup ensures graduates are able to participate fully in the programme while receiving financial support that helps relieve the pressure of entering the workplace.

Required Qualifications and Skills

The programme is best suited for graduates with a strong interest in technology, data, or analytics.

Below are the minimum and ideal requirements.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

• A completed 3- or 4-year degree
• Degrees in STEM fields such as Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Science, Mathematics, Applied Statistics, Engineering or similar fields are ideal

However, other degrees may be considered if you have strong analytical or technical skills.

Essential Technical Skills

• Strong Excel skills, including VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables and advanced formulas
• Basic understanding of data analysis and information systems
• Clear and professional communication abilities
• Ability to interpret and analyse numerical or structured information

Preferred Skills

• SQL experience (highly advantageous)
• Previous exposure to reporting tools or analytics software
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Curiosity about digital transformation and retail technology
• Problem-solving confidence and eagerness to learn

How the Programme Helps Build Long-Term Careers

The value of a graduate programme lies not just in the year of training but in what it unlocks afterwards. The Smollan DataOrbis Graduate Programme creates opportunities that extend far beyond the 12 months.

Graduates who complete the programme often benefit from:

Improved employment prospects

Many graduates secure full-time roles within the company, having built relationships and proven their capabilities.

A strong foundation of practical experience

This makes your CV more competitive and opens doors in data analytics, retail systems, business intelligence, and technology.

Networking opportunities

You build relationships with senior professionals, specialists and colleagues across the organisation.

A confidence boost

You gain exposure that can take years to develop in other environments.

Career direction and clarity

You discover where your strengths and interests truly lie within the tech and data landscape.

These long-term benefits make the programme one of the most valuable pathways available for graduates in South Africa today.

Why the Programme Stands Out for Google Discover Readers

Google Discover rewards content that is:

• Visually engaging
• Human-centred
• Informational
• Useful to the reader’s personal goals
• Relevant to career development and opportunities

This opportunity fits perfectly within those categories because it speaks to:

• Youth unemployment challenges
• Career entry pathways
• Tech and digital trends
• Education and practical skill development
• Real opportunities for financial support

The programme offers real, immediate value for young South Africans seeking their first step into the digital economy.

How to Apply

Applications must be completed online:

Visit the official application portal at:
dataorbis.mcidirecthire.com

What you should prepare:

• A complete CV
• Your academic transcripts
• Copies of qualifications
• A short motivation explaining your interest

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is highly encouraged.

The Bigger Picture: A Future Built Through Innovation

South Africa’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, creating new job opportunities every year. To participate in that future, graduates need not only theoretical learning but practical exposure to real systems, real data and real-time problem solving.

The Smollan DataOrbis Graduate Programme bridges the divide between education and industry.

It gives graduates the chance to:

• Build relevant digital skills
• Work with experienced professionals
• Learn how data fuels retail industries
• Understand the impact of technology on everyday business
• Contribute to real, measurable outcomes
• Develop long-term career direction

In an economy where many graduates struggle to break into the job market, this programme offers a path forward that is structured, supportive and meaningful.

Conclusion: Your First Step Into a Growing Digital Future

The Smollan DataOrbis Graduate Programme 2026 is more than a work opportunity—it is a professional transformation. With hands-on training, ongoing mentorship, structured development workshops and exposure to dynamic industry projects, the programme offers graduates a powerful foundation upon which to build their future careers in data and technology.

If you are passionate about analytics, excited by digital innovation, and eager to learn within a supportive environment, this programme may be the perfect starting point for your journey.