Are you a recently qualified South African graduate looking to launch your career in the public sector? The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) has officially opened applications for its Graduate Internship Programme 2026–2028 — a 24-month structured internship designed to equip unemployed graduates with the professional skills, practical experience, and industry knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive labour market.

This is more than just an internship. It is an opportunity to be part of a department that drives South Africa’s economic growth, promotes industrialisation, and works toward a globally competitive economy built on inclusive development and decent employment. Interns will be immersed in a professional government environment, gaining hands-on exposure to policy, administration, and economic development processes at a national level.

Programme Details

The internship runs from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2028 and is based at the dtic campus in Sunnyside, Pretoria. Successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend of R7 860.50.

Fields of Study

Graduates holding NQF Level 6 qualifications or higher in any of the following disciplines are encouraged to apply: Public Management or Public Administration, Business Management or Business Administration, Human Resource Management or Human Resource Development, Communication or Public Relations, Law, Software Development, Economics, Statistics or Econometrics, Agricultural Economics or Forestry Science, Development Studies, Accounting, Financial Management or Cost and Management Accounting, Risk Management, Internal Auditing, Natural Sciences (including Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Bioengineering), Mining Engineering or Metallurgy, Occupational Health and Safety, Supply Chain Management or Procurement, and International Politics.

Who Should Apply

Applications are open to unemployed South African graduates who are eager to contribute to public service and national economic development. The ideal candidate is professional, analytical, and ambitious — with strong communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and a genuine willingness to learn. An understanding of government systems and processes will be advantageous.

How to Apply

Send your application by email to:

intern2026@thedtic.gov.za

Use your field of study as the subject line — for example: Intern2026 – Economics

Your application must include a completed and signed Z83 form and a detailed CV listing all final year modules completed. Applications may also be submitted by post to The Director: Human Resources Management, Private Bag X84, Pretoria, 0001, or delivered by hand to the dtic Campus, Corner of Meintjies and Robert Sobukwe Streets, Sunnyside, Pretoria.

Only shortlisted candidates will be required to provide certified copies of their ID, Senior Certificate, and highest qualification. Applicants with international qualifications must have them evaluated by SAQA.

The dtic is committed to employment equity. In line with its EE targets, preference will be given to African males and persons with disabilities.

For enquiries, contact Donald Mathavha at (012) 394 3864, Teaman Nghunyule at (012) 394 1563, Ursula Pitse at (012) 394 1852, or Vusi Mazibuko at (012) 394 5608.

Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Closing Date: 06 May 2026