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.