(915) Data Science Graduate Development Programme

South African Reserve Bank Data Science Graduate Development Programme

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is looking for talented postgraduates to join its one-year Data Science Graduate Development Programme in February 2026.

What the SARB does

The SARB serves the economic well-being of South Africans through maintaining price and financial stability. It is responsible for the regulation of the South African financial sector, design and distribution of banknotes and coin, management of interest rates, setting the cash reserve requirement for banks, and ensuring stability of both the banking sector and the wider financial system.

Description

Data science is an inter-disciplinary field that uses scientific methods, processes, algorithms and systems to extract knowledge and insights from structured and unstructured data. The core outcome of this programme is to develop deep capabilities in advanced analytics in central banking.

Format of the programme

Graduates will be placed in the Business Systems and Technology Department within the SARB, from February 2026 to January 2027. During the programme, graduates will attend various learning interventions at the SARB Academy, including technical training. The programme offers opportunities for a Data Science track, and graduates will work in a Data Lab environment from time to time, on various use cases.

Duration of the programme

One year
 

To be considered, candidates must have a postgraduate qualification or be in the process of completing a postgraduate qualification (ideally completed the course work) in one of the following fields:

•    Data Science
•    Machine Learning/Artificial Intelligence
•    Predictive Analytics Modelling
•    Statistics
•    Applied Mathematics
•    Digital Technology (Information Technology)
•    Fintech
•    Economics with Econometrics
•    Business Mathematics and Informatics.

Additional requirements

•    Coding with R and/or Python; 
•    be a South African citizen; 
•    be a curious, innovative and self-motivated individual with strong analytical skills;
•    have a proven track record of academic excellence with an overall average mark of 70% and above; and
•    have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
•    Have Fintech experience.

Remuneration and benefits

Graduates will receive a market-related salary and additional benefits for the duration of the programme.

 

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to participate in interviews, assessments and a security clearance as part of the selection process.

In line with the SARB’s commitment to diversifying its workforce, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups. Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

About SARB

 

Primary mandate of the SARB

 

Section 224 of the Constitution of South Africa states the mandate of the SARB as follows:

The primary object of the South African Reserve Bank is to protect the value of the currency in the interest of balanced and sustainable economic growth in the Republic.

The South African Reserve Bank, in support of its primary objective, must perform its functions independently and without fear, favour or prejudice.

 

WHAT WE DO

 

Monetary Policy

 

The Constitution gives the SARB the mandate to protect the value of the rand. We use interest rates to keep inflation low and steady.

 

Financial Stability

 

The SARB has a mandate to protect and enhance financial stability. We identify and mitigate systemic risks that might disrupt the financial system.

 

Prudential Regulation

 

The Prudential Authority regulates financial institutions and market infrastructures to promote and enhance their safety and soundness, and support financial stability.

 

Financial Markets

 

Open market operations are the main tool we use to implement monetary policy. We manage South Africa’s gold and foreign exchange reserves.

 

Financial Surveillance

 

The SARB is responsible for regulating cross-border transactions, preventing the abuse of the financial system and supporting the regulation of financial institutions.

 

Payments and Settlements

 

The SARB is responsible for ensuring the safety and soundness of the national payment system, which is the backbone of South Africa’s modern financial system.

 

Statistics

 

The SARB provides important economic and financial statistics that present an overview of the economic situation in South Africa.

 

Research

 

Research conducted by the SARB focuses on economics, financial stability, banking and emerging trends in finance. Our research supports policy decision-making.

Banknotes and Coin

 

The SARB has the sole right to make, issue and destroy banknotes and coin in South Africa.