Apply for DHET Graduate Internship and WIL Programme 2025–2027

The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is offering an excellent opportunity for unemployed South African graduates and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) students to gain valuable work experience through its Graduate Internship and WIL Programme for 2025–2027.

If you are between the ages of 18 and 35 and have never participated in any internship within the public sector, this is your chance to apply for a 24-month fixed-term contract that aligns with your field of study. Internships are available across various locations including Pretoria, Olifantsfontein, and multiple Community Education and Training (CET) regional offices.

Internship Overview

  • Closing Date: 29 August 2025
  • Closing Time: 15:00
  • Duration: 24 months (fixed-term contract)
  • Monthly Stipend:
    • Graduate Interns: R7,860.40
    • WIL Students: R6,659.40
  • Locations:
    • Pretoria Head Office
    • Olifantsfontein
    • CET Regional Offices (Nationwide)

Who Can Apply?

This programme is targeted at South African youth who are looking to gain their first real-world work experience in the public service. Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Minimum Requirements:

  • Be a South African citizen, aged 18–35
  • Unemployed at the time of application
  • Have never participated in any internship or WIL programme in the public service
  • Possess a relevant qualification (diploma/degree/certificate) depending on the post
  • Be available for the full 24-month internship duration
  • Submit a completed Z83 form and comprehensive CV
  • Clearly indicate the reference number and field of study when applying

Important: Incomplete applications or missing documents will not be considered.

Internship Opportunities by Location

Internship and WIL placements are available in multiple branches and regions. Below is a breakdown of available opportunities and their reference numbers.

Pretoria Head Office – Graduate Internship Posts

Department / FunctionReference NumberRequired Qualification
Teaching Qualifications PolicyDHET/UE/2025/01Public Administration / Office Management
International ScholarshipsDHET/UE/2025/02BCom in International Relations / Marketing
Student Support & Sector EngagementDHET/UE/2025/03Public Administration / Management
Governance SupportDHET/UE/2025/04Related qualifications
Management Support & TransfersDHET/UE/2025/05Finance
HRDC SecretariatDHET/HRDC/2025/01Communications, Research, M&E
Logistics / Supply Chain / Compliance / Public Entities / Development SupportMultiple Ref. NumbersFinance / Admin / Public Sector-related studies

Olifantsfontein – Skills Development Internships

Department / FunctionReference NumberRelevant Fields
Artisan DevelopmentDHET/SD/2025/01Artisan Training / Skills Development
National Artisan Moderation BodyDHET/SD/2025/02, DHET/SD/2025/03HRM, Auxiliary Services, Assessment
ARPL & AssessmentAs aboveRelated HR or Admin disciplines
Maintenance / Registration / Security SupportVariousFacilities / Office Admi

CET Regional Offices – Nationwide Opportunities

Regional Offices:

  • Limpopo
  • Mpumalanga
  • Free State
  • Western Cape
  • North West
  • KwaZulu-Natal
  • Gauteng

Community Colleges:

  • North West CET College
  • Mpumalanga CET College
  • Western Cape CET College
  • Gauteng CET College
  • KZN CET College

Fields of Internship:

  • Human Resources
  • Office Administration
  • Information Technology
  • Marketing
  • Labour Relations
  • Project Management
  • Public Management and Governance
  • Finance / SCM / Compliance

These internships provide practical work experience in educational administration, regional coordination, and community skills development.

Application Instructions

To apply, carefully follow the DHET application process. Failure to follow these steps may lead to disqualification.

Submit Your Application To:

Postal Address:
The Director-General
Department of Higher Education and Training
Private Bag X174
Pretoria, 0001

Hand Delivery:
123 Francis Baard Street (Corner Sophie De Bruyn Street)
Reception, Pretoria, Gauteng

Required Documents:

  • Completed Z83 Application Form (Download the latest version from www.dpsa.gov.za)
  • Comprehensive CV
  • Certified copies of:
    • South African ID
    • Academic records
    • Qualification certificate(s)

Important Notes:

  • Clearly state the reference number of the internship you’re applying for.
  • Indicate your field of study and match it with the internship opportunity.
  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
  • Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Contact for Enquiries

For more information, you can reach out to the DHET contacts listed below:

  • Ms C. Ndzimela – 012 312 5818
  • Ms N. Ndzantsi – 012 312 5343
  • Ms N. Khoza – 012 312 5192

Feel free to call during office hours (Monday–Friday).

The DHET Graduate Internship and WIL Programme 2025–2027 is a significant opportunity for young South Africans looking to gain practical experience and launch a meaningful career in the public service. Whether you’re a graduate with a degree or a TVET student in need of WIL exposure, this programme offers paid placements across multiple disciplines and regions.

With over 20 different internship areas available nationwide, there’s likely a position that matches your qualification and career ambitions. Apply before 29 August 2025 at 15:00 to be considered.

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