Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) Graduate Internships and Learnerships 2025

The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) has officially opened applications for its highly anticipated Graduate Internship and Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme for the 2025/2026–2026/2027 financial years. This opportunity is ideal for recent graduates and students seeking work-based training and skills development in one of the most vital government departments in South Africa.

The programme is aimed at empowering young South African graduates and equipping them with the necessary experience to compete in today’s job market. If you are between the ages of 18 and 35, unemployed, and have completed a relevant qualification, this opportunity might be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.

What Is the DHET Graduate Internship Programme?

The DHET Graduate Internship Programme is a two-year initiative providing workplace exposure and hands-on experience across various branches and directorates of the department. Interns are placed in roles aligned with their academic background, ensuring the work is relevant and beneficial to their long-term careers.

The programme includes both internships and WIL placements:

• Internships are open to university or university of technology graduates.
• WIL placements cater to students who have completed the theoretical component of their National Diploma and require in-service training.

Benefits of the Programme

Interns will receive a monthly stipend, which will help support them during the two-year placement:

• Graduate Interns: R7 860.40 per month
• WIL Learners: R6 659.40 per month

These placements provide much-needed financial support while allowing graduates to develop practical experience, build professional networks, and gain insight into how government functions from the inside.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is open to South African citizens only, and applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be unemployed and aged between 18 and 35 years
• Must have never participated in any public service internship or WIL programme before
• Must hold a relevant tertiary qualification for the position applied for
• Must be willing to be placed for the full duration (24 months) of the programme
• Must submit a completed Z83 application form, a detailed CV, and certified copies of qualifications and ID

Internship Locations and Fields

DHET is offering internship opportunities at various locations, including:

1.Head Office – Pretoria

Several internship placements are available at the DHET Head Office, located at 123 Francis Baard Street, Pretoria. These include:

• International Scholarships and Partnerships: International Relations, Public Admin, or Marketing

• Teaching Qualifications and Policies: Education Management, Public Administration

• Student Support and Sector Engagement: Project Management, Office Management

Corporate Services: Supply Chain, Finance, HRM, Legal Services, Logistics, Security Services, ICT, Communications

2. Olifantsfontein Campus – Skills Development

DHET is also offering placements in the National Artisan Development Unit. Positions are available in:

• Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL)
• Assessment and Moderation
• Administration and Office Support
• Maintenance and Facilities Management
• Security and Registration

3. Community Education and Training (CET) Regional Offices

Internship positions are available in all nine provinces, with placements in:

• Human Resources
• Office Administration
• Labour Relations
• IT and Data Management
• Communications and Marketing
• Finance and Supply Chain Management

This ensures that applicants across the country have access to opportunities within their own regions.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted on the New Z83 Form, which is available on the DPSA website or from any government office.

Application Submission Options:

• Post:
  The Director-General
  Department of Higher Education and Training
  Private Bag X174
  Pretoria
  0001

• Hand Delivery:
  Reception Area
  123 Francis Baard Street
  Pretoria
  0002

Applicants must clearly state the reference number of the internship position on their Z83 form. Only one application per applicant will be accepted, and duplicate applications may lead to disqualification.

Important Notes:

• No faxed or emailed applications will be accepted.
• Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
• Certified copies of all required documents must be submitted. Do not send original certificates.

Deadline for Applications

The closing date for applications is Friday, 29 August 2025. Due to high demand, it is advised that applicants submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid disqualification or delays.

Need Help?

If you have any questions or need help with the application process, you can contact the DHET representatives below:

Ms C. Ndzimela: 012 312 5818

Ms N. Ndzantsi: 012 312 5343

Ms N. Khoza: 012 312 5192

Final Thoughts

The DHET Internship and Learnership Programme is more than just a job opportunity—it’s a stepping stone to a professional career in the public sector. With roles available across the country and in various departments, this is your chance to get real experience, earn a stipend, and build a future you can be proud of.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss out on this opportunity. Prepare your documents, choose your desired internship post, and submit your application before the 29 August 2025 deadline.