Graduate Internship Program – Department of Employment and Labour (DEL)
If you are a South African graduate who is currently out of work, you can join the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) for a 24‑month paid internship that runs from 2025 to 2027. The internship will give you real work experience in a government office and will pay a monthly stipend of about R7,860.50.
Deadline and how to apply
The last day to submit a written application is 21 November 2025.
• Walk‑in applications finish at 4:00 pm.
• Online applications finish at midnight.
To apply online, go to sayouth.mobi and search for Project 20K. Look for the Department of Employment and Labour post that matches your province or the Head Office in Pretoria. Use the reference number that is listed for each job. This is a fresh application – old forms will not be accepted.
Who can join?
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must not have worked in a paid internship before.
- You must be unemployed at the time of application.
- You should have a National Diploma (NQF 6) or a Bachelor’s Degree (NQF 7).
- If you are from a province outside your home area, you need to arrange your own travel and living costs.
- You will need to pass a basic check and may be asked to do a short test before the job starts.
- If you studied abroad, send us a SAQA evaluation of your degree.
What you will do
The internship covers a wide range of government work. Some of the areas you could work in are:
- Health & safety inspections – help with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, investigate accidents, and write reports.
- Labour law checks – inspect workplaces to make sure they follow the Basic Conditions of Employment Act.
- Employment equity – support the government in checking that companies give fair opportunities to all people.
- Audit services – keep tabs on accounting rules and investigate irregularities.
- Head Office roles – work on projects, public administration, finance, human resources and training.
You will be placed in one of nine provinces or at the head office in Pretoria. Every role gives you a chance to learn from experienced staff and to see how the national labour department runs its day‑to‑day operations.
How many spots are available?
There are about ≈12,000 spots in total, grouped into specific streams:
| Stream | Approximate posts | Stipend | Main tasks | Typical qualifications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Occupational Health & Safety | 3,385 | R7,860.50 | Inspections, incident investigations | Environmental or mechanical engineering, chemistry, etc. |
| Basic Conditions of Employment | 3,197 | R7,860.50 | Compliance checks, paperwork | Labour relations, law, business law |
| Employment Equity | 260 | R7,860.50 | Inspections, investigations | Business law, labour law |
| Employer Audit Services | 1,076 | R7,860.50 | Monitoring, investigations | Accounting, audit, law |
| Head Office placements | Varies | R7,860.50 – R7,680.50 | Project management, policy, training | Public administration, human resources, management |
Each post has a reference number that you should mention when you apply. The numbers change by province – be sure to look at the correct one for your area.
What you’ll need to submit
- A NEW Z83 form, fully filled out and signed.
- A recent CV.
- If you get called for an interview, you must bring certified copies of:
- ID card
- Matric certificate
- Academic transcripts (showing you completed 360 or 480 credits)
- SAQA evaluation if your degree is from another country
Keep a copy of each reference number so you know exactly which job you are applying for.
What happens after you submit?
If you do not hear from us within eight weeks after the deadline, it probably means you were not selected. Only shortlisted candidates will receive further instructions.
Ready to apply?
- Sign up or log in at sayouth.mobi.
- Search for “Project 20K”.
- Choose the Department of Employment and Labour job that matches your province or the head office.
- Fill out the online form and upload your NEW Z83 and CV.
- Write the correct reference number for each position you want.
If you’re asked for more documents, bring the certified copies listed above.
Need help?
Call the SA Youth Contact Centre at 0800 727 272 for questions.
The Department of Employment and Labour is looking for fresh graduates ready to learn and contribute. This internship offers a steady paycheck, a full 24‑month schedule, and a chance to work in different provinces or the national headquarters. Don’t miss the chance to start a career in public service – apply now and build a solid foundation for your future.