The National Department of Health is calling unemployed South African graduates to apply for its Graduate Internship Programme 2026‑2028. The deadline is 1 June 2026, so act now if you need work experience in the public sector.
What the programme offers
This is a 24‑month graduate internship based in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will receive a monthly stipend of R8 174.78 while gaining hands‑on exposure to the Department’s various units. The internship is designed to improve your employability through on‑the‑job training and occupational learning.
Who can apply
- South African citizens who are currently unemployed
- Hold a Grade 12 (NQF 4) certificate
- Have the NQF 6 diploma or degree listed for the specific post
- Have not taken part in any other internship programme before
- Want experience in the public service
What you will gain
- Practical experience in a government department
- Occupational‑based training in your field of study
- Networking with senior civil servants
- A recognised 24‑month work record for future job applications
Available positions
Human Resources Management and Development Internship (4 posts)
Reference: NDOH 30/2026
Required: Diploma (NQF 6) in Human Resources Management or Human Resources Development.
Organisational Development Internship (1 post)
Reference: NDOH 31/2026
Required: Diploma (NQF 6) in Management Services, Operations Management or Production Management.
Employment Relations Internship (1 post)
Reference: NDOH 32/2026
Required: Diploma (NQF 6) in Employment Relations or a related HR field.
Financial Management and Accounting Internship (3 posts)
Reference: NDOH 33/2026
Required: Diploma (NQF 6) in Financial Management or Accounting.
Supply Chain Management Internship (4 posts)
Reference: NDOH 34/2026
Required: Diploma (NQF 6) in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Public Management, Purchasing or Transport Management.
Internal Audit Internship (3 posts)
Reference: NDOH 35/2026
Required: Diploma (NQF 6) in Internal Auditing or Risk Management.
Information Communication and Technology Internship (4 posts)
Reference: NDOH 36/2026
Required: Diploma (NQF 6) in Computer Science or Information Technology.
Communication Internship (2 posts)
Reference: NDOH 37/2026
Required: Diploma (NQF 6) in Journalism, Marketing and Communication, or Communication.
Legal Services Internship (3 posts)
Reference: NDOH 38/2026
Required: LLB Degree (NQF 6) in Law.
Office of the Director‑General Internship (2 posts)
Reference: NDOH 39/2026
Required: Diploma (NQF 6) in Management, Business Management, Administration, Public Management, Office Management or a related administration qualification.
How to apply – step by step
- Prepare your latest CV, certified copies of your Grade 12 and NQF 6 qualification, and a covering letter that mentions the exact reference number of the post you want.
- Send the documents by email to vacancies@Health.gov.za. Use the reference number as the subject line (e.g., “NDOH 30/2026”).
- If you prefer post, mail your application to:
Director‑General
National Department of Health
Private Bag X399
Pretoria 0001 - You may also hand‑deliver the package to the Brown Application Box at the Dr AB Xuma Building, 1112 Voortrekker Road, Pretoria Townlands 351‑JR.
- Keep a copy of everything you send and note the date you mailed it.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that you have attached all required documents before sending.
- Make sure the reference number in the email subject matches the post you are applying for.
- Write a concise covering letter that explains why you want public‑service experience and how your studies relate to the role.
- Proofread for spelling and grammar – a neat application creates a better impression.
- Apply early; late submissions are not accepted.
Additional information
The Department’s Employment Equity Plan will guide appointments, aiming for fair representation across the country’s demographic groups. Remember that completing the internship does not guarantee a permanent contract.
Important reminders
- Applications received after 1 June 2026 will be rejected.
- Using the wrong reference number will lead to disqualification.
- Incomplete files may be excluded from selection.
- There is no guarantee of permanent employment after the 24‑month period.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria, start gathering your documents today and submit your application before the deadline. Good luck, and may this internship be the first step toward a rewarding career in the South African public service.
