Internships at the Department of Employment and Labour – A Quick Guide for Fresh Graduates
If you’re a recent university student in South Africa looking for real‑world experience, the Department of Employment and Labour has a whole range of internships waiting for you. These positions focus on how the government handles claims, medical payments, and the COID (Compensation Office for Industrial Disputes) services. Whether you’re in business, accounting, nursing, or just love helping people, there’s a spot for you in one of the province’s offices.
The internships offer a monthly stipend of R7 860.50 and give you a structured look at the day‑to‑day work of a public sector employee. You’ll learn about filing claims, processing medical invoices, and even the financial side of compensation benefits. If you finish the internship, you’ll have a strong résumé and a taste of public administration that could open doors to future jobs or further study.
Where the Internships Are Located
The Department is spread out across South Africa, so you can choose a city that suits your travel plans or where you already live. Here’s a quick rundown of the cities and the main types of posts available:
| Province | City | Main Internship Types |
|---|---|---|
| North West | Klerksdorp, Mafikeng | Claims registration, medical payments, medical services |
| Free State | Bloemfontein, Bethlehem, Welkom | Claims registration, medical payments, medical services, admin assistance |
| Northern Cape | Kimberley, Upington | Finance, benefits processing, pension administration, claims |
| Western Cape | Cape Town, Bellville, George | Claims, medical payments, medical services, finance |
| Eastern Cape | East London, Komani (Queenstown), Mthatha, Gqeberha | COID claim processing, finance, medical services |
The posts are numbered (for example, Post 05/68 is a Claims Registration Internship at the Klerksdorp Labour Centre). Each post also has a reference code that can help you locate it in the official job portal.
What You Need to Qualify
Most of the internships require a three‑year university qualification (NQF Level 6) in a relevant field. Below are the key subjects you can choose from:
- Public Administration / Management
- Business or Operations Management
- Human Resources
- Office Management and Technology
- Finance, Accounting, or Internal Audit
- Nursing (for certain medical‑services posts)
If you’re studying one of these areas, you’re in a good position. The Department is looking for people who can manage records, handle data, and communicate effectively with clients and colleagues.
What You’ll Do Day‑to‑Day
Each internship has its own set of tasks, but you can expect to work in one of the following areas:
- Claims Registration / COID Claim Processing:
- Enter and review claim details.
- Answer questions from claimants.
- Gather missing paperwork and verify calculations.
- Medical Payments:
- Receive and check medical invoices.
- Make sure there are no duplicates.
- Issue refunds and manage travel expense claims.
- Medical Services:
- Help walk‑in clients.
- Keep track of medical reports.
- Scan and file documents.
- Administrative Assistance:
- Organise records and schedule meetings.
- Take calls and greet visitors.
- Support the team with travel and reporting needs.
- Finance:
- Monitor budgets and review payment files.
- Help calculate compensation benefits.
- Assist in asset management and basic bookkeeping.
You’ll also learn how the Department coordinates across many provincial offices, which can give you insight into large‑scale public service operations.
How to Apply
- Choose the Post – Find the post number that matches your interest and the city you want to work in.
- Prepare Your Documents – Keep a copy of your CV, a cover letter (briefly explain why you want this internship), and your degree certificate or proof of study.
- Send Your Application – Use the contact details for the provincial office that covers the location you’re applying for.
- North West: Email to Jobs-NW10@labour.gov.za
- Free State: Email to Jobs-FS4@labour.gov.za
- Northern Cape: Email to Jobs-NCKIM@labour.gov.za
- Western Cape: Email to WesternCapeHRM@labour.gov.za
- Eastern Cape: Email to EasternCapeHR@labour.gov.za
You can also hand‑deliver the application if you’re in the area. Each office has a mailing address and a place where you can drop it off.
Want to apply right now? Click here to access the Department of Employment and Labour Internship Programme 2026 application form and submit your details.
Need More Info?
If you have questions about the posts or want to talk to someone from a particular province, use the contact numbers below. A friendly staff member will guide you through the process.
| Province | Contact | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| North West | Ms N Litheko | 018 387 8128 |
| Free State | Mr S Zakwe | 051 505 6300 |
| Northern Cape | Ms Sherelda Kleinsmith | 053 838 1517 |
| Western Cape | Ms B Gae | 021 441 8065 |
| Eastern Cape | Mr S Nqabeni | 066 114 2056 |
Quick Takeaway
The Department of Employment and Labour is opening dozens of internship spots across the country. With a stipend and a chance to work on real claims, payments, and admin tasks, these positions are a solid stepping‑stone into a public‑sector career. Just make sure you meet the qualifications, choose a post that matches your interests, and send your application before the closing date. Good luck, and may you find a role that fits your skills and future plans!