Imagine gaining two years of hands-on experience in government, earning a monthly stipend, and boosting your employability in a competitive job market. The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is offering its 2025–2027 Graduate Internship and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme, with multiple positions at its Pretoria Head Office, Olifantsfontein, and Community Education and Training (CET) Regional Offices nationwide. Applications close on 29 August 2025 at 15:00, so act now. Here’s your guide to seizing this transformative opportunity.
Why Join the DHET Programme?
DHET, responsible for South Africa’s post-school education and training, oversees universities, TVET colleges, and CET institutions, impacting millions of learners. This 24-month programme, starting in 2025, is designed for unemployed graduates and TVET students needing workplace experience. You’ll earn a stipend (ZAR 7,860.40/month for graduates, ZAR 6,659.40/month for WIL students), gain practical skills, and work in a professional environment, addressing South Africa’s 45.5% youth unemployment rate. With mentorship and a structured programme, this is a launchpad to careers in government or the private sector.
What’s Involved in the Programme?
The DHET Internship and WIL Programme places you in real-world roles across various fields, combining practical tasks with professional development. Depending on your placement, you’ll work in areas like public administration, finance, HR, IT, or artisan development. Key responsibilities may include:
- Supporting administrative tasks (e.g., data capturing, report preparation)
- Assisting with policy implementation or programme coordination
- Engaging with stakeholders in education or skills development
- Conducting research, monitoring, or evaluation
- Managing logistics, compliance, or office operations
- For artisan roles: Supporting training, assessments, or maintenance
Placements are available at:
- Pretoria Head Office: Roles in Teaching Qualifications Policy, International Scholarships, Finance, HRDC Secretariat, Governance, and more
- Olifantsfontein: Artisan Development, National Artisan Moderation Body, HR, and maintenance support
- CET Regional Offices: HR, IT, marketing, labour relations, and project management in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State, Western Cape, North West, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng
Who Can Apply?
DHET is seeking motivated, unemployed South Africans aged 18–35. Here are the eligibility criteria:
Minimum Requirements
- Graduate Interns:
- National Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in fields like Public Administration, Office Management, International Relations, Marketing, Finance, Communications, HR, IT, or related
- Never participated in a public service internship
- WIL Students:
- Enrolled in a TVET programme requiring workplace experience to complete NQF Level 4 or higher (e.g., NCV or N4–N6 in Business Studies, IT, or artisan trades)
- Never participated in a WIL programme
- General:
- South African citizen
- Unemployed and not enrolled in another internship/learnership
- Available for the full 24 months (2025–2027)
- Certified copies of ID and qualifications
- For artisan roles: Relevant trade certificate or NQF Level 4 equivalent
Key Skills
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Basic computer literacy (e.g., MS Office for most roles)
- Ability to work in a team and meet deadlines
- For artisan roles: Technical aptitude and safety awareness
How to Apply for the DHET Programme
Applications must be submitted by 15:00 on 29 August 2025. Follow these steps:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Completed Z83 form (new version, downloadable
- Comprehensive CV with full contact details and qualifications
- Certified copies of South African ID and relevant qualifications (within three months)
- Clearly state the reference number and field of study for your chosen post (e.g., DHET/SD/2025/01 for Artisan Development)
- Optional: A cover letter explaining your interest in DHET and the specific role
- Submit Your Application:
- Postal: The Director-General, Department of Higher Education and Training, Private Bag X174, Pretoria, 0001
- Hand Delivery: Reception Desk, 123 Francis Baard Street, Cnr Sophie De Bruyn, Pretoria
- Do not email applications unless specified in the full circular (check www.dhet.gov.za)
- Deadline: 29 August 2025 at 15:00 (late or incomplete applications will be rejected)
- Avoid Scams: Only apply through official DHET channels. Never pay fees or share bank details.
For assistance, contact:
- Ms. C. Ndzimela: 012 312 5818
- Ms. N. Ndzantsi: 012 312 5343
- Ms. N. Khoza: 012 312 5192
Download the full circular at www.dhet.gov.za for specific reference numbers and role details.
What to Expect After Applying
DHET’s selection process ensures the best candidates are chosen:
- Application Review: HR will verify qualifications and eligibility.
- Interviews/Assessments: Shortlisted candidates may face interviews or practical tasks (e.g., admin or technical tests).
- Background Checks: ID, qualifications, and criminal records will be verified.
- Feedback: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you don’t hear back within three months, your application was unsuccessful.
Successful candidates will start in 2025, placed in Pretoria, Olifantsfontein, or CET offices, earning a stipend and gaining two years of experience.
Tips for a Standout Application
To boost your chances:
- Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant qualifications or skills (e.g., admin experience, IT projects, or trade skills).
- Use the Correct Reference: Specify the post and reference number (e.g., DHET/SD/2025/01) on your Z83 and CV.
- Write a Cover Letter: Share your passion for education or skills development and how you’ll contribute to DHET.
- Certify Documents: Ensure ID and qualifications are certified by a Commissioner of Oaths within three months.
- Apply Early: Submit well before 29 August 2025 to avoid postal delays or portal issues.
- Research DHET: Understand its role in education to shine in interviews.
Why This Opportunity Matters
DHET oversees a R130 billion budget for higher education, supporting 26 universities and 50 TVET colleges. This programme addresses youth unemployment by providing 24 months of experience, making you highly employable in government (e.g., admin or policy roles) or private sectors like HR, IT, or artisan trades. With stipends and mentorship, it’s a low-risk way to gain skills and connections, especially for TVET students needing WIL to graduate or graduates facing job market barriers.
Conclusion
The DHET 2025–2027 Graduate Internship and WIL Programme is your chance to gain two years of paid experience in government, with placements in Pretoria, Olifantsfontein, and CET offices nationwide. Whether you’re a graduate with an NQF 6/7 or a TVET student needing WIL, prepare your Z83 form, CV, and certified documents, and apply by 15:00 on 29 August 2025 via post (Private Bag X174, Pretoria, 0001) or hand delivery (123 Francis Baard Street, Pretoria). Don’t miss this opportunity to launch your career—apply now and shape your future with DHET!
