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 / Function | Reference Number | Required Qualification |
---|---|---|
Teaching Qualifications Policy | DHET/UE/2025/01 | Public Administration / Office Management |
International Scholarships | DHET/UE/2025/02 | BCom in International Relations / Marketing |
Student Support & Sector Engagement | DHET/UE/2025/03 | Public Administration / Management |
Governance Support | DHET/UE/2025/04 | Related qualifications |
Management Support & Transfers | DHET/UE/2025/05 | Finance |
HRDC Secretariat | DHET/HRDC/2025/01 | Communications, Research, M&E |
Logistics / Supply Chain / Compliance / Public Entities / Development Support | Multiple Ref. Numbers | Finance / Admin / Public Sector-related studies |
Olifantsfontein – Skills Development Internships
Department / Function | Reference Number | Relevant Fields |
---|---|---|
Artisan Development | DHET/SD/2025/01 | Artisan Training / Skills Development |
National Artisan Moderation Body | DHET/SD/2025/02, DHET/SD/2025/03 | HRM, Auxiliary Services, Assessment |
ARPL & Assessment | As above | Related HR or Admin disciplines |
Maintenance / Registration / Security Support | Various | Facilities / 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.