The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is calling on unemployed South African graduates and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) students to apply for their Graduate Internship and WIL Programme for 2025/2026 – 2026/2027. This is a golden chance for young people to gain real workplace experience, sharpen their skills, and build a strong career path within one of the country’s most important government departments. Applications will close on 29 August 2025 at 15:00, so those who are interested are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Why You Should Apply
This programme gives graduates and WIL students hands-on training in different branches of DHET. It is not just about getting work exposure—it is about building the right foundation for a career. Successful applicants will get:
- A stipend of R7,860.40 per month for graduate interns.
- A stipend of R6,659.40 per month for WIL students.
- A 24-month contract with consistent mentorship and training.
- Opportunities to work in head offices, regional offices, and DHET sites across the country.
For many young South Africans, this is not just a short-term job, but a real steppingstone to future opportunities.
Who Can Apply
To be considered for the internship or learnership, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be unemployed at the time of applying.
- Be a South African citizen between the ages of 18 and 35 years.
- Never have participated in any internship programme within the Public Service.
- Be willing to undergo qualification checks, reference checks, and security vetting.
If you tick all these boxes, then this programme is made for you.
Internship & Learnership Fields Available
The Department of Higher Education and Training has opened a wide range of opportunities across its branches. Here are the main areas where you can apply:
University Education Branch
- Teaching Qualifications Policy
- International Scholarships
- Student Support and Engagement
- Governance and Management Support
Human Resource Development Council (HRDC)
- Secretariat Support
CFO Branch
- Logistics Management
- Contract Management & Acquisition
- Compliance and Financial Services
Skills Development
- Artisan Development
- National Artisan Moderation Body
- ICT & Engineering Support
- Marketing, Psychology & Logistics
- Finance, Social Sciences & Legal Studies
- SETA Coordination & Support
Corporate Services
- Office of the DG
- Organisational Development
- Internal Communication
- Recruitment and HR Support
- Training and Performance Management
Planning, Policy & Strategy
- International Relations
- IT & Information Systems
- Policy, Research & Evaluation
- Social Inclusion & Transformation
- Career Development Services
- College System Infrastructure Planning
- Labour Market Intelligence
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
- Curriculum Development
- Monitoring & Evaluation
- Lecturer Development Support
- Budget Planning & Funding
- Regional and National TVET Support
Community Education and Training (CET)
- Financial Planning
- Institutional Support
- Governance Services
- Regional CET Offices and Colleges
This long list shows just how wide the opportunities are. Whether your interest is in teaching, finance, IT, policy, or community development, there is a space for you at DHET.
Where Will You Work?
Internship and learnership placements will take place at:
- Pretoria Head Office
- Olifantsfontein
- DHET Regional Offices
- Other DHET sites across South Africa
This means that no matter where you are in the country, you could have the chance to join.
How to Apply
If you are ready to apply, follow these steps carefully:
- Fill out the new Z83 application form.
- Attach a detailed and updated CV.
- Send your application using one of the following methods:
By Post
The Director-General
Department of Higher Education and Training
Private Bag X174
Pretoria, 0001
(Attention: Training and Development Unit)
Hand Delivery
123 Francis Baard Street, Corner Sophie De Bruyn & Francis Baard, Pretoria (Reception Area)
Email
Send to: Internship@dhet.gov.za(Make sure to include the correct reference number in the subject line)
Important: No faxed or late applications will be accepted. If you want to apply for more than one position, you must submit a separate Z83 form for each.
Why This Matters
This programme is not just a job—it’s a career launchpad. Many graduates who started here have gone on to secure permanent roles within government and other sectors. The training, mentorship, and exposure you gain will make you a stronger candidate in the job market.
If you are serious about your future, this is an opportunity you should not miss.
