Internship Opportunities at the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) for 2025–2027

The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is pleased to announce the opening of applications for its Graduate Internship and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme. This initiative is designed to provide unemployed graduates and students currently undertaking Work Integrated Learning with meaningful, practical experience within their respective academic disciplines. The programme will run over the financial years 2025/2026 and 2026/2027, offering a valuable chance for participants to develop skills, enhance their employability, and gain insight into the operations of the public sector.

Programme Overview:

The DHET Graduate Internship and Work Integrated Learning Programme is an important platform aimed at bridging the gap between academic learning and the professional workplace. It provides interns with the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real-world environment, contributing to public service projects while gaining firsthand experience in government operations.

This programme is ideal for unemployed South African graduates who meet the academic requirements in their chosen fields of study, as well as students who are currently engaged in WIL placements as part of their degree or diploma programmes.

Application Process and Submission Guidelines:

Applicants interested in this opportunity must submit their applications by no later than 15:00 on Friday, 29 August 2025. Applications can be sent through the following channels:

• By post, addressed to The Director-General, Department of Higher Education and Training, Private Bag X174, Pretoria, 0001.
• By hand delivery to the reception area located at 123 Francis Baard Street (corner of Sophie De Bruyn and Francis Baard Streets), Pretoria.
• Via email to Internship@Dhet.gov.za. When applying by email, please ensure that you quote the reference number provided in the advertisement.

All applications must include the latest version of the Z83 form, which is a standard application form available on any Public Service Department’s website. This form must be completed in full and submitted alongside a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV). Applicants should clearly specify the field of study they are applying for within their application. Please note that if you wish to apply for more than one field of study, separate applications with individual Z83 forms and supporting documents must be submitted for each.

Eligibility Requirements:

To be considered for the DHET Internship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have successfully met all academic requirements for the specific field of study they are applying for.
• Must not have previously served as a Graduate Intern or contract worker within the Public Service.
• Must be unemployed at the time of application.
• Must be a South African citizen.
• Applicants holding foreign qualifications are required to have their qualifications evaluated and verified by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
• All appointments are subject to thorough verification processes, including qualification authentication, citizenship confirmation, reference checks, and security vetting.
• Applicants who have previously participated in a DHET internship programme will not be eligible to apply.

Commitment to Equal Opportunity:

The Department of Higher Education and Training is dedicated to fostering equal opportunity in the workplace. We actively promote affirmative action employment practices and strive to ensure representativity across race, gender, and disability within our organisation. We strongly encourage applications from people living with disabilities and other historically disadvantaged groups to help us build a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Additional Important Information:

• Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
• Due to the high volume of applications anticipated, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Incomplete applications or those missing required documentation will be disqualified and will not be considered.

Why Apply?

This internship programme offers a unique chance for graduates and WIL students to acquire hands-on experience in a respected government department, enhancing their professional skills and increasing their future employability. Working within DHET provides exposure to the dynamic and impactful environment of the public service, allowing interns to contribute meaningfully while expanding their networks and competencies.

Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their applications carefully and submit them well before the closing date. Make sure your documents are complete, your CV is thorough, and that your Z83 form is correctly filled out to ensure your application receives full consideration.

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Closing Date for Applications: Friday, 29 August 2025, at 15:00

Organisation Offering the Internship: Department of Higher Education and Training