The South African Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Graduate Internship Programme. This 24-month initiative is designed to provide work experience to unemployed graduates across various provinces.
Key Dates & Deadlines
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Opening Date: Mid-February 2026.
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Closing Date: 27 February 2026 (16:00 for walk-ins, 23:59 for online).
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Duration: 24 months (2 years).
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Stipend: Approximately R7,860.50 per month.
Available Positions & Fields
The internship is spread across several provinces and the Compensation Fund. Major focus areas include:
| Category | Typical Qualifications (NQF Level 6/7) |
| Finance & Auditing | Financial Management, Accounting, Auditing, Economics, Cost & Management Accounting. |
| Claims & Benefits | Public Management, Business Administration, Law, Commerce. |
| Medical Services | Nursing, Medical-related qualifications, Public Management. |
| Administration | Office Management, Public Administration, Human Resource Management. |
| ICT & Technical | Information Technology, Legal Support, Communications. |
Regional Distribution (Examples)
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Gauteng: Approx. 28 positions (including Pretoria Head Office).
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KwaZulu-Natal: Approx. 24 positions (Durban, PMB, Richards Bay).
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Free State: Approx. 18 positions (Bloemfontein, Welkom, Bethlehem).
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Northern Cape: Diverse roles in Finance and Claims (Kimberley, Upington).
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
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Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
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Employment Status: Must be currently unemployed.
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Experience: Must have never participated in an internship programme before.
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Education: Hold a three-year tertiary qualification (National Diploma or Degree) in the relevant field.
How to Apply
The Department is strict about application procedures. Missing a document often leads to immediate disqualification.
Download this pdf to see all INTERNSHIPS
1. Documents Needed
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New Z83 Form: Download the latest version . It must be fully completed, initialed, and signed.
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Updated CV: Comprehensive and clearly outlining your qualification.
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Reference Number: You must quote the specific reference number for the post you are applying for (e.g., Ref: HR 5/1/2/3/44).
2. Submission Methods
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Email: Use the specific email address provided for your province/post (e.g.,
Jobs-KZN8@labour.gov.za). -
Online (SA Youth): Many positions are listed on sayouth.mobi. Search for “Project 20K“.
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Hand Delivery/Post: Check the specific provincial address in the official advert (DPSA Circular 05 of 2026).
Note: Do not attach certified copies of your ID or qualifications yet. Only shortlisted candidates will be required to bring these to the interview.
