The Nkomazi Local Municipality, together with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), is looking for young people who want a chance to earn money and learn about protecting nature. They have opened the Youth Graduate Internships for 2026 under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). If you’re between 18 and 35, not working or studying, and live in South Africa, you could be a good fit for one of these free internship spots.
Where to apply?
All the positions are inside Nkomazi’s four regions. If you live near these areas you’ll be a bit closer to where the work happens, which can help when you need to be on site.
When to apply?
The deadline is 4 February 2026 at 4 pm. Submit your application early to avoid last‑minute glitches.
Quick look at the EPWP Youth Internship Programme
- Programme name – Nkomazi Local Municipality & DFFE Youth Graduate Internships (EPWP)
- Purpose – Help young people find work, earn money, and step into a career in environment and wildlife.
- Target age – 18–35 years old.
- Disability friendly – Applicants with disabilities are welcomed and encouraged to apply.
Money you can earn
| Education level | Daily pay |
|---|---|
| Completed Grade 12 | R165.00 |
| Diploma or degree in an environmental field | R271.04 |
What’s on offer?
There are two kinds of spots:
1️⃣ Matric / Grade 12 Internships – 40 spots
- No college degree needed.
- Good for school leavers who need a job or extra money.
- Helps build a CV for future studies or jobs.
- You don’t need previous work experience – this is a beginner job.
2️⃣ Diploma / Degree Internships – 20 spots
- Designed for graduates with degrees that touch on environment, such as Environmental Sciences, Agriculture, or Development Studies.
- Good for those looking to get practical experience in biodiversity or environmental management.
Where will you work?
Interns will be placed in the four regions of Nkomazi Local Municipality. If you live in the same area, you may have a higher chance of being placed nearby. The work is community‑based, so you’ll see how local projects protect nature and help people.
Who can apply?
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | South African |
| Age | 18‑35 |
| Employment status | Unemployed or under‑employed |
| Education | Meets the category you choose (Grade 12 or a relevant degree) |
| Personality | Creative, curious and ready to learn |
| Disability status | Encouraged to apply |
You only need to meet the age and education requirements – no prior job experience is required.
What to send in your application
Must‑have documents
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate (if you’re in that category)
- Certified copy of your diploma/degree (if you’re in that category)
Extra documents that can help
- Academic transcript
- Proof you live in the area
- One‑page motivation letter telling why you want the internship
- Any proof of volunteer or community work
Keep the documents clear, certified, and in the order listed above.
How to send it
Send everything to:
Director, Corporate Services
Private Bag X101
Malalane, 1320
Put all documents together in one envelope or file. Make sure all certificates are valid and easy to read. Send your application before 4 February 2026, 4 pm – after that we may not see it.
Why this internship matters
- Earn money while you learn – the stipend gives you a steady income.
- Get real work experience – you’ll see how environmental projects are carried out on the ground.
- Step into a career – this can be a bridge to future internships, learnerships, or jobs in the nature sector.
- Open up future chances – the skills and connections you gain can help you move into a permanent position later.
For any youth who is looking for a genuine way to get paid, build a resume and start a career in protecting our planet, the EPWP internship is a solid option for 2026.
If you’re ready to make a difference and get paid for it, check out the Nkomazi Local Municipality page for more details. Nkomazi Local Municipality is where the work happens, so learn more and apply today.