Getting your first professional experience can change the direction of your career, and the Free State Office of the Premier is offering a chance to do just that right now. The Graduate Internship Programme 2026 closes on 04 August 2026, so act quickly if you want to start building skills in government.
What the opportunity is
The Free State Office of the Premier is running a 24‑month Graduate Internship Programme. It is designed for unemployed South African graduates who live in Bloemfontein. The internship is paid, full‑time and provides hands‑on experience in a provincial government setting.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- South African citizen
- Resident of Bloemfontein (your address on the Z83 form and CV must match)
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Must have completed a relevant qualification (see sections below)
- Never participated in an internship programme before
- Available for the whole 24‑month period
- Willing to attend an interview if shortlisted
- Able to pass identity, qualification, criminal‑record and other security checks
What you will gain
Each placement gives you practical exposure that can be added to your resume. You will develop professional, technical and administrative skills while working on real government projects.
Communication directorate (8 places)
- Graphic design, marketing, media studies, photography, digital marketing or related fields
- Experience in government communication, public‑awareness campaigns, content creation, social‑media support, multimedia production and marketing activities
Corporate Reform directorate (10 places)
- National Diploma or Diploma in Information Technology
- Experience in technical support, information systems, digital transformation, network administration, software support, data management and ICT administration
Intergovernmental Relations directorate (2 places)
- Qualifications in International Relations, Diplomatic Studies, Political Studies, Communication, Public Relations, Hospitality, Events Management or related fields
- Experience in stakeholder engagement, government partnerships, protocol services, event coordination, strategic communication and intergovernmental programmes
How to apply – step by step
- Download the new Z83 application form: download the new Z83 application form
- Fill in all personal details, contact information, residential address, the directorate you are applying for, your qualification details and employment history (if any).
- Sign and date the form.
- Gather the required supporting documents:
- Certified copy of your Senior/Matric certificate
- Certified copy of your ID document
- Certified academic record and copies of all qualifications
- Updated CV
- Any additional documents requested by the Office of the Premier
- Place the completed Z83 form and all documents in an envelope addressed to:
Free State Training and Development Institute
Brahman Building, 2nd Floor
124 Nelson Mandela Drive
Bloemfontein, Free State - Submit your application before the closing date of 04 August 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that every document is clear, legible and certified where required.
- Make sure your Z83 form is fully completed and signed; an unsigned form is rejected.
- Tailor your CV to the specific directorate you are applying for. Highlight relevant coursework, projects or volunteer work.
- Proofread every section for spelling or factual errors – mistakes can raise doubts during verification.
- If you are interested in more than one directorate, send separate, complete applications for each.
- Arrive early at the submission address; avoid last‑minute traffic or postal delays.
- Prepare for potential interviews by researching the Free State provincial government and the specific directorate’s functions.
Final reminder and next steps
This internship is a valuable entry point into the public sector, but it is competitive. Review the eligibility checklist, gather your documents, and submit a clean, complete application well before the deadline. Taking these steps now puts you in a stronger position to secure a place and start building a professional career.
