South Africa’s job market can feel overwhelming for fresh graduates. That’s why the KZN Department of Education Graduate Internship Programme is a timely chance to turn a gap in your resume into real workplace experience. With 800 slots available across KwaZulu‑Natal, this fully structured, 24‑month programme could be the stepping‑stone you need right now.
What the Programme Is All About
The Department of Education will recruit 800 unemployed graduates for a 24‑month internship. You’ll work in a variety of directorates and may rotate to different fields (except specialised roles). The aim is to give you practical skills, a deeper understanding of how a public institution operates, and a boost in employability when you move on to the next chapter of your career.
Who Should Apply?
Before you start, check that you meet these minimum requirements:
- South African citizen
- Unemployed graduate with no relevant work experience
- Not currently studying
- Has not previously participated in a Graduate Internship Programme
- Willing to sign a contractual agreement with the Department
- Available for placement at any departmental office across KwaZulu‑Natal
- People with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply
Fields and Reference Numbers
The programme offers a wide range of streams. Below are the options and their reference numbers:
- Human Resource Administrative Services – Ref: KZNDE/001/Intern
- Information Technology Services – Ref: KZNDE/002/Intern
- Communications and Publications (Pietermaritzburg only) – Ref: KZNDE/003/Intern
- Supply Chain Management – Ref: KZNDE/004/Intern
- Organisational Development (Pietermaritzburg only) – Ref: KZNDE/005/Intern
- Legal Services (Pietermaritzburg only) – Ref: KZNDE/006/Intern
- EMIS, Infrastructure Planning and Delivery – Ref: KZNDE/007/Intern & KZNDE/008/Intern
- Special Needs Education, Inclusive Education, Library & Information Services – Ref: KZNDE/009/Intern & KZNDE/010/Intern
- Inter‑Governmental Relations – Ref: KZNDE/011/Intern
- Occupational Health and Safety – Ref: KZNDE/012/Intern
- Finance – Ref: KZNDE/013/Intern
- Co‑Curricular – Ref: KZNDE/014/Intern
Each stream has its own qualification requirements – for example, the IT stream needs an IT or programming background, while the HR stream prefers HR or public administration degrees. Be sure to read the detailed qualifications before picking a reference number.
What You Gain From the Internship
Beyond the official title, you will:
- Work in a real public‑sector environment for two years
- Learn hands‑on skills that employers value
- Build a professional network across the Department
- Receive a contractual stipend and training
- Enhance your CV with a proven track record of public‑service experience
How to Apply – Step by Step
1. Download the official circular that contains the full application form and requirements: KZN Circular (Graduate Internship Programme 2026/28).
2. Gather all compulsory documents (see list below).
3. Hand‑deliver your completed application to the nearest Department of Education office. You can also contact the office for clarification if needed.
4. Submit by 27 February 2026; applications after this date will not be considered.
Required Documents (Compulsory)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Recent CV with details of your education and skills
- Certified copy of matric certificate
- Certified copy of degree/diploma certificate or a confirmation letter
- Full academic record (list of modules and grades)
- Proof of residence (important – wrong information can cancel your placement)
- Proof of registration with a relevant professional body or council (if applicable)
Missing any of these documents may disqualify you.
Office Contact Details for Hand‑Delivery
Head Office – Pietermaritzburg
- Contact: Mrs. B.C Sithole / Mr. S. Funeka
- Tel: 033 846 5197 / 5506 | 033 846 5294 / 5293
- Address: 228 Pietermaritz Street, 2nd Floor, Ex‑NED Building, Pietermaritzburg, 3201
Umgungundlovu District – Pietermaritzburg
- Contact: Mr. S. Daniso | Tel: 033 355 2256
- Address: 3rd Floor, Old Mutual Building, 185 Langalibalele Street, Pietermaritzburg, 3201
Pinetown District
- Contact: Mr. Z. Gagai | Tel: 031 737 2003
- Address: 17 Crompton Street (Former Italia Building), Pinetown, 3600
Umlazi District – Durban
- Contact: Mrs. N. Msomi | Tel: 031 360 6354
- Address: 8th Floor, Truro House, 17 Margaret Mncadi, Durban, 4001
iLembe District – KwaDukuza
- Contact: Mrs. N.A. Ngonyama | Tel: 032 439 6184
- Address: Corner R103 and Link Road, KwaDukuza, 4450
Zululand District – Vryheid / Ulundi
- Contact: Mr. M.C. Sibanyoni | Tel: 035 874 1102 / 1290
- Address: Parkhome No. 11, Cnr South & West Parkhome, Vryheid, 3100 or King Dinuzulu Highway, 2nd Floor Administrative Building, Ulundi, 3838
Ugu District – Port Shepstone
- Contact: Mrs. T.N. Ngcobo | Tel: 039 688 8808
- Address: 03 Jan Smuts, Port Shepstone, 4240
Harry Gwala District – Kokstad
- Contact: Mr. B.M. Mkhanyawo | Tel: 039 797 3700
- Address: 8 Main Street, Kokstad, 4700
uThukela District – Ladysmith
- Contact: Mr. W.B. Tshangase / Mr. T. Venge | Tel: 036 638 7793 / 94
- Address: 49 Murchison Street, Ladysmith, 3370
Umzinyathi District – Dundee
- Tel: 034 219 2103 / 2761
- Address: No. 40 Wilson Street, Dundee, 3000
Amajuba District – Newcastle
- Contact: Mr. B.N. Mdlalose | Tel: 034 328 4566 / 4562
- Address: 113 Panorama Drive, Lennoxton, Newcastle, 2940
King Cetshwayo District – Empangeni
- Contact: Mr. B.E. Mazibuko | Tel: 035 901 1457
- Address: Cnr Maxwell & Hancock Avenue, Empangeni, 3880
uMkhanyakude District – Mkhuze
- Contact: Mr. S.A. Mkhwanazi | Tel: 035 573 3858
- Address: Cnr Thubelathu & Telembe Road, Mkhuze, 3965
Practical Tips to Boost Your Application
Many applicants struggle with paperwork or not knowing exactly what the Department is looking for. From experience, most successful candidates:
- Submit all documents in the order requested – no missing pages.
- Proofread your CV and cover letter for typos – a polished application shows attention to detail.
- Get a reference or letter of recommendation from a lecturer or former employer if possible.
- Prepare for an interview by researching the Department’s current projects and understanding how your chosen field fits into that picture.
- Check your contact details; errors in your address or phone can delay or cancel your placement.
- Be honest about your skill level – the programme is designed for fresh graduates, so show enthusiasm for learning.
Ready to Take the Leap?
This internship offers a rare chance to gain 24 months of public‑sector experience in one of South Africa’s most important ministries. If you meet the eligibility criteria, gather your documents, and submit before 27 February 2026, you could be on track to launch a successful career. Head to the Department’s office today, bring your paperwork, and step into a future where you’re not just looking for a job – you’re building one.
