Are you a fresh graduate who is still looking for work? The National Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Graduate Internship Programme 2026 is calling all South African graduates who are unemployed and ready to learn. The closing date for applications is 31 March 2026, so if you want a chance to build a career in environmental and public service, you need to act fast.
What the Programme Is All About
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is offering a 24‑month internship that lets you work inside government, learn from mentors, and develop practical skills in fields like climate change, forestry, IT and public management. The internship is designed to give you hands‑on experience that many new graduates find hard to get elsewhere.
Who Should Apply
To be considered you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be currently unemployed and hold a National Diploma, Degree, Advanced Diploma, Honours Degree or Post‑graduate qualification in a relevant field
- Not have taken part in any other government internship programme before
- Match your field of study to the internship reference number you are applying for
Fields of Study Opened for Internship
- Forestry and Forest Management
- Environmental Science and Management
- Nature Conservation and Biodiversity
- Marine Science and Aquaculture
- Climate Change and Atmospheric Science
- Information Technology and Data Management
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Public Administration and Public Management
- Human Resources
- Supply Chain and Logistics
- Financial Management and Accounting
- Communications, Journalism and Public Relations
- Risk Management and Internal Audit
- Law and Legal Studies
- Project Management
- Knowledge Management and Records Management
- Occupational Health and Safety
Internships are available in regional offices, forestry estates, research units and national department sites across all nine provinces.
What You Gain
During the 24‑month programme you will:
- Work on real government projects and environmental initiatives
- Learn project management, financial administration and IT systems used by the public sector
- Receive mentorship from experienced professionals
- Build a portfolio that can open doors to full‑time roles after graduation
- Earn a competitive stipend and potential future employment pathways
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Download the Z83 application form.
- Fill out the form. Include all requested details, and attach a recent CV.
- Upload your documents as a single PDF. The file must contain only the Z83 form and your CV.
- Send the PDF to the appropriate address:
Inland Applications – Gauteng, Limpopo, North West, Free State, Mpumalanga
- Email to InternshipInland@dffe.gov.za
- Or send via postal mail to:
Director‑General
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Private Bag X447
Pretoria, 0001 - Hand‑deliver to Environment House, Arcadia, Pretoria:
Erf 1563 Arcadia Extension 6
Cnr Soutpansberg and Steve Biko Road
Arcadia, Pretoria
Coastal Applications – Eastern Cape, KwaZulu‑Natal, Northern Cape, Western Cape
- Send to:
Director‑General
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Private Bag X4390
Cape Town, 8000 - Hand‑deliver to Foretrust Building, Foreshore, Cape Town, or to 185 Langalibalele Street, Old Mutual Building, 5th Floor, Pietermaritzburg.
Make sure the internship reference number and job title are written in the email subject line or on the cover sheet of your PDF.
Documents You’ll Need
- Completed Z83 Application Form
- Updated CV (no more than two pages)
Shortlisted candidates will be asked to send certified copies of their ID, academic certificates and transcripts.
Practical Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Check the reference number. Each field has a specific code; match yours exactly.
- Keep your CV concise. Highlight projects that relate to the internship, not just a list of jobs.
- Proofread. A clean, error‑free application shows attention to detail.
- Ask for a reference. A recommendation from a lecturer or employer can strengthen your file.
- Apply before 31 March 2026—late submissions may not be considered.
Next Steps
Feeling ready? Grab the Z83 form, fill it out, add your CV, and submit your PDF before the deadline. This 24‑month journey could be the bridge between school and a meaningful career in South Africa’s environmental and public service fields. Good luck, and remember: every application is a step forward.
