Kick-Start Your Career: DHET Graduate Internship & Work-Integrated Learning Programme 2025–2027

Embarking on a career can feel daunting, especially in today’s competitive job landscape. For eager graduates and WIL students, the DHET Graduate Internship & WIL Programme for 2025–2027 offers more than just a stipend—it opens a door to real-world experience, mentorship, and skills-building in South Africa’s public sector.

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What the Programme Offers

This structured initiative places graduates and WIL students in meaningful roles across DHET’s national and regional offices—including Community Education and Training (CET) regions. Interns receive hands-on experience while contributing to education development in South Africa. It’s also an equitable opportunity: DHET prioritizes representativity in terms of race, gender, and disability.Higher Education and TrainingDPSA

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Open Roles & Stipend Overview

Here’s a snapshot of real internship and WIL posts currently available under the 2025–2027 programme:

You’ll gain 24-month contract placements across various DHET branches—from policy planning to student support—without previous internship experience required. You must be South African and not previously enrolled in any public sector internship.Higher Education and Training

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Why It Matters in 2025

SA Job Market Snapshot

South Africa still grapples with high graduate unemployment—hovering around 30 % or higher. Internships like these are critical stepping stones, offering structured exposure and networking that academic qualifications alone can’t deliver.

Industry Trends & Public Sector Demand

Public sector internships continue to grow in strategic importance as gateways to career-building. DHET’s programme covers essential administrative and technical functions, preparing you for leadership roles across education and governance.

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Spotlight: Application Details

Where to Apply:

Submit your application to:

• Mail: The Director-General, DHET, Private Bag X174, Pretoria, 0001—Attention: Training and Development unit

• Hand-deliver: 123 Francis Baard Street (corner Sophie de Bruyn & Francis Baard St.), Pretoria, Reception

• Email: Internship@Dhet.gov.za—don’t forget to quote the correct reference number!Higher Education and Training

Required Documents:

• Complete a Z83 application form

• Attach a comprehensive, tailored CV

• Clearly highlight your qualification, location preference, and motivation

• If you have a disability, ensure to mention it—DHET encourages such applicantsHigher Education and TrainingDPSA

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What DHET Looks For

• Graduates or current WIL students in relevant fields (IT, Finance, Public Admin, etc.)

• South African citizens, unemployed in the public sector

• First-time participants in internship programmes

• Preparedness to commit to a 24-month contract

• A keen interest in public service and education development

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Pros & Cons at a Glance

Pros:

• Valuable, practical work experience in government

• Mentorship and exposure to public policy, administration, and implementation

• Solid monthly stipend (R7,860), reflecting above-minimum public sector rates

• Builds a foundation for future public or private roles

Cons:

• Competitive intake—these are sought-after internships

• Modest stipend; not a long-term income solution

• Fixed 24-month duration may limit immediate flexibility

• Closing date is firm—late applications are not considered

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FAQs

Q: Who can apply?
A: South African graduates or WIL students who are unemployed in the public sector and have never previously interned in government.Higher Education and Training

Q: What’s the stipend amount?
A: Graduate Interns receive R7,860.40/month, while WIL Students get R6,659.40/month.Higher Education and Training

Q: Where are the roles based?
A: Across CET regional offices in Mpumalanga, Free State, KZN, Western & Northern Cape, and more—major centers like Mbombela, Pietermaritzburg, and Cape Town.Higher Education and Training

Q: What’s the deadline?
A: 29 August 2025, at 15:00. Apply early to avoid shipping delays or portal issues.Higher Education and Training+1

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Additional Resources

• DHET “Careers” page—for full listings and official portal access.Higher Education and Training

• Z83 Application Guide—essential PDF for correctly filling out your form (available on DHET site).Higher Education and Training

• Stats SA—to fact-check unemployment trends and youth employment data

• Labour Market Insights—from recruitment bodies to understand typical stipends and outcomes

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Final Thoughts

The DHET Graduate Internship & WIL Programme 2025–2027 offers an exceptional chance to transition from theory to action and build a potent public service career foundation. With structured exposure, a supportive environment, and a clear application path, it’s a rare opportunity not to miss.

Your Next Steps:

1. Pick a role that aligns with your skills and passion

2. Complete your Z83 form and craft a targeted CV

3. Apply before 29 August 2025, 15:00

4. Prepare for interviews by researching DHET’s mission and culture

5. Reach out for help—I can assist with CV writing, interview prep, or strategizing next steps!