The Department of Cooperative Governance invites suitably qualified South African graduates to apply for their Graduate Internship Programme (X21 Posts) for 2026/2028. This is an incredible opportunity for young professionals who want to gain hands-on experience in government while contributing to improving service delivery in municipalities and provinces across the country.
The closing date for applications is 10 October 2025, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting programme. Successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend of R7,860.39 and will be based in Pretoria for the duration of the internship.
About the Internship Programme
The programme runs for 24 months (2 years) and is designed to provide graduates with a structured learning environment where they will work alongside experienced public service professionals. This setup will help participants gain essential skills, boost their confidence, and prepare them for long-term careers in the government or related sectors.
The Department of Cooperative Governance plays a vital role in strengthening municipalities and promoting service delivery, making this internship a perfect starting point for graduates who want to make a real difference in their communities.
Key Benefits of Joining
By joining this internship programme, you will gain:
- Real-world government experience: Learn how local and provincial government systems operate.
- Mentorship and coaching: Receive guidance from experienced professionals to help you grow.
- Career development: Build a strong foundation for future employment in the public sector or related industries.
- Networking opportunities: Connect with other young professionals and senior officials in government.
Available Internship Opportunities
There are 21 internship positions available across various departments. Each role has its own qualification requirements and unique responsibilities. Below are the available positions and how to apply:
| Internship Area | Reference Number | Required Qualification | Email to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corporate Branding & Communication | HRD/2025/1 | National Diploma or Bachelor’s in Graphic Design, Communication, Marketing, or equivalent (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment06@cogta.gov.za |
| Human Capital Management | HRD/2025/2 | National Diploma or Bachelor’s in HR, Industrial Psychology, Social Sciences, Public Administration (Personnel Practices focus) | Recruitment07@cogta.gov.za |
| Information Technology | HRD/2025/3 | National Diploma or Bachelor’s in IT, Computer Science, Informatics, or equivalent (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment08@cogta.gov.za |
| Legal Services | HRD/2025/4 | LLB (NQF 8) | Recruitment09@cogta.gov.za |
| Facilities & Security Management | HRD/2025/5 | Diploma in Security Management or Bachelor’s in Social Sciences (Psychology, Criminology, etc.) + valid driver’s license | Recruitment10@cogta.gov.za |
| Community Work Programme (CWP) | HRD/2025/6 | National Diploma or Bachelor’s in Public Administration & Management (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment11@cogta.gov.za |
| CWP Partnerships, Training & Special Projects | HRD/2025/7 | National Diploma or Bachelor’s in Business or Project Management (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment12@cogta.gov.za |
| CWP Financial Coordination | HRD/2025/8 | National Diploma or Bachelor’s in Financial Management or Accounting (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment13@cogta.gov.za |
| Supply Chain Management | HRD/2025/9 | National Diploma or Bachelor’s in Logistics or Supply Chain Management (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment14@cogta.gov.za |
| Internal Control | HRD/2025/10 | National Diploma or Bachelor’s in Accounting (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment15@cogta.gov.za |
| Disaster Risk Reduction & Capacity Development | HRD/2025/11 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Disaster Management (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment16@cogta.gov.za |
| Disaster Preparedness & Recovery Coordination | HRD/2025/12 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Disaster Management (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment17@cogta.gov.za |
| Strategic & Executive Support | HRD/2025/13 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Public Management/Administration (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment18@cogta.gov.za |
| Internal Audit & Risk Management | HRD/2025/14 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Internal Audit/Risk Management (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment19@cogta.gov.za |
| Local Government Operations & Support (DDG Office) | HRD/2025/15 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Administration (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment20@cogta.gov.za |
| Local Government Support – Gauteng & Free State Cluster | HRD/2025/16 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Public Administration or Development Studies (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment21@cogta.gov.za |
| Local Government Support – Limpopo & Mpumalanga Cluster | HRD/2025/17 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Public Administration or Development Studies (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment22@cogta.gov.za |
| Local Government Support – Western & Eastern Cape Cluster | HRD/2025/18 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Public Administration or Development Studies (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment23@cogta.gov.za |
| Municipal Powers & Functions Support | HRD/2025/19 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Public Administration or Management (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment24@cogta.gov.za |
| Knowledge Management & Reporting Systems | HRD/2025/20 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Development Studies, Knowledge Management, or Information Systems (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment25@cogta.gov.za |
| Policy Governance & Administration (DDG Office) | HRD/2025/21 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in Administration (NQF 6/7) | Recruitment26@cogta.gov.za |
| Municipal Capacity Development | HRD/2025/22 | Diploma or Bachelor’s in HR Development, Public Administration (NQF 6/7) + valid driver’s license | Recruitment27@cogta.gov.za |
Important Notes
- Applicants must not have worked previously as interns or been on a contract in the Public Service (including Local Government) or Private Sector.
- Failing to disclose past work experience may result in disqualification.
- All qualifications must be SAQA-recognized at the required NQF level.
How to Apply
- Identify the internship position you want to apply for.
- Use the correct reference number in your application email.
- Email your application and supporting documents to the relevant email address listed above.
- Ensure your documents are complete and sent before the closing date: 10 October 2025.
Download Required Forms:
- [Department of Cooperative Governance Internship Advert]
- [New Z83 Application Form]
Why This Internship Matters
This programme is an excellent opportunity for graduates who are serious about making a difference in South Africa. You’ll gain first-hand experience in government operations while developing the skills and knowledge needed for a permanent role in the public sector.
With 21 internship positions available, there’s a place for passionate and driven individuals to help strengthen local government and improve communities across the country.
For more information, you can call Ms. M Bakhane or Mr. S Ramphisa at (012) 334 0628/0629.
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