National Department of Health
National Department of Health Graduate Internships 2026
Role Overview
National Department of Health invites unemployed South African graduates to apply for the Graduate Internship Programme 2026–2028.
Internship Application Closing Date: 01 June 2026
Internship Location: Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
The National Department of Health is offering a 24-month Graduate Internship Programme for unemployed graduates seeking practical work experience in the Public Service sector.
The programme aims to improve employability by providing workplace exposure and occupational-based training across different departments within the National Department of Health.
Applicants who have previously participated in an internship programme will not be considered.
Monthly Stipend: R8 174.78 per month
Diploma (NQF 6) in: Human Resources Management Human Resources Development
Diploma (NQF 6) in: Management Services Operations Management Production Management
Diploma (NQF 6) in: Labour Relations
Diploma (NQF 6) in: Financial Management Accounting
Diploma (NQF 6) in: Supply Chain Management Logistics Public Management Purchasing Transport Management
Diploma (NQF 6) in: Internal Auditing Risk Management
Diploma (NQF 6) in: Computer Science Information Technology
Diploma (NQF 6) in: Journalism Marketing and Communication Communication
Diploma (NQF 6) in: Management Business Management Administration Public Management Office Management Related Administration qualification
Related Administration qualification
Be unemployed South African graduates
Hold the relevant qualification mentioned above
Not have previously participated in an internship programme
Be interested in gaining Public Service work experience
The Department of Health aims to promote equity in terms of:
Appointments will support the Department’s Employment Equity Plan.
Applications can be submitted via:
Use the relevant reference number as the email subject line.
The Director-GeneralNational Department of HealthPrivate Bag X399Pretoria0001
Reception (Brown Application Box)Dr AB Xuma Building1112 Voortrekker RoadPretoria Townlands 351-JR
Enquiries: Mr A MasiloTelephone: (012) 395 8669
Late applications will not be accepted.
Applicants must quote the correct reference number.
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
The internship programme does not guarantee permanent employment after completion.
Key Responsibilities
Taking ownership of key deliverables and driving them to completion is essential, as is building relationships with colleagues and stakeholders across the organisation while developing your professional skills. As a graduate programme participant, your responsibilities will include completing structured rotations across different business units to gain broad organisational exposure and delivering on project objectives.
Entry Requirements
• Applicants must:
• Be unemployed South African graduates
• Have Grade 12 (NQF 4)
• Hold the relevant qualification mentioned above
• Not have previously participated in an internship programme
• Be interested in gaining Public Service work experience
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from StudentRoom. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted via:
Email application: vacancies@Health.gov.za
About National Department of Health
This graduate programme is offered by National Department of Health, based in Pretoria.
Why This Is Good for Starters
Graduate programmes are the gold standard for launching a professional career in South Africa. This National Department of Health programme is designed to fast-track your development with structured rotations, mentorship from senior leaders, and exposure to different business units. Graduate programmes typically offer competitive salaries, medical aid, and a clear path to management. Companies invest heavily in their graduate intake — this is your chance to learn from the best while being paid to do it.
Gauteng is South Africa's economic hub with the highest concentration of corporate headquarters. Competition is fierce but opportunities are abundant.
CV Tips for This Application
- Lead with your degree, honours, or postgraduate qualification — include your institution and graduation year
- Highlight leadership roles: class representative, society president, team captain
- Include vacation work, part-time jobs, or any industry exposure during your studies
- Quantify achievements where possible: "Managed a team of 5" or "Achieved 75% average"
- Tailor your CV to the specific programme — generic applications rarely make the shortlist
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Write a brief cover letter explaining why you are a good fit
- Submit before the closing date: 01 June 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Check the requirements section above for education requirements.
Do I need experience?
Some experience may be required. Check the requirements section for details.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this graduate programme paid?
Yes, this opportunity offers: R
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 01 June 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.
Similar Opportunities
Ready to Apply?
Submit your application directly on National Department of Health's careers portal.
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