Meta Description
Apply for the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) Graduate Internship Programme 2026. View full requirements, available posts, stipend details, application steps and closing date. Open to unemployed South African graduates.
Introduction
The Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) is inviting unemployed South African graduates to apply for the 2026 Graduate Internship Programme, a comprehensive 24-month opportunity designed to provide real workplace exposure, professional development, and hands-on experience across national and provincial offices.
This structured internship is aimed at graduates who have never participated in any internship programme before and are ready to begin a meaningful career in public service. With positions available across multiple disciplines, the programme offers an essential stepping stone into full-time employment within government.
Closing Date: 05 December 2025
Quick Overview / Programme Info
| DETAIL | INFORMATION |
|---|---|
| Programme | DEL Graduate Internship Programme 2026 |
| Duration | 24 Months |
| Stipend | R7 860.50 per month (for listed ICT roles) |
| Who May Apply | Unemployed SA graduates |
| Platform to Apply | SAYouth.mobi (Project 20K) |
| Eligibility | Never participated in an internship |
| Location | Head Office + All Provinces |
| Date Published | November 2025 |
| Closing Date | 05 December 2025 |
Purpose of the Programme
The Graduate Internship Programme equips unemployed graduates with:
- Practical workplace exposure
- Administrative, ICT, research, and governance experience
- Mentorship and structured skills development
- Opportunities to contribute to national labour programmes
The aim is to build a capable, confident, and employable youth workforce while supporting the Department’s mandate.
Key Responsibilities & Outputs
Below is a summarised table of typical internship responsibilities and tasks.
| Intern Role | Key Responsibilities | Previous Stipend Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| ICT Technicians | Desktop support, printer troubleshooting, ITSM calls | R7 860.50 |
| Service Desk Agents | Logging calls, tracking incidents, assisting users | R7 860.50 |
| Admin Clerks | Filing, data capturing, document management | R7 860.50 |
| Researchers | Data analysis, report writing, research support | R7 860.50 |
| Library Interns | Cataloguing, lending services, user assistance | R7 860.50 |
| Digital Content Creators | Visual design, media editing, content creation | R7 860.50 |
Minimum Requirements / Eligibility
To apply, candidates must:
- Be unemployed
- Be South African citizens
- Be aged between 18–35
- Have never participated in any internship programme
- Meet the qualification requirements for the specific post
Applicants applying outside their home province must arrange their own accommodation and transport.
Core Competencies & Skills Required
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong communication skills
- Analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Basic ICT competence (where applicable)
- Ability to work under pressure
- Professionalism and organisational discipline
- Willingness to learn and adapt
- Teamwork and time-management skills
Equity, Diversity & Transformation Commitment
The Department is committed to Employment Equity and transformation. Priority will be given to:
- Youth
- Persons with disabilities
- Previously disadvantaged groups
This ensures fair representation and promotes opportunities for all qualifying individuals.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
| Step | Action Required |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit https://sayouth.mobi |
| 2 | Log in or register an account |
| 3 | In the search bar, type Project 20K |
| 4 | Browse and select the internship post you qualify for |
| 5 | Complete the online application |
| 6 | Upload your CV and any required documents |
| 7 | Submit your application before 05 December 2025 |
Important:
The old Z83 form is not accepted. Download New One Here
Shortlisted candidates will be asked later to submit certified documents.
Possible Career Paths After Completion
Completing the DEL Graduate Internship Programme can lead to:
- ICT Technician roles
- Service Desk Consultant positions
- HR and Admin Officer roles
- Research Assistant positions
- Data Analyst support roles
- Library and information services careers
- Digital content and communication roles
- Employment services and labour market analysis roles
These roles may open job opportunities in both public and private sectors.
Call to Action
If you are an unemployed graduate seeking practical experience, national exposure, and professional development, the Department of Employment and Labour Graduate Internship Programme 2026 is a valuable opportunity. Apply via SAYouth.mobi, ensure all details are accurate, and submit your application before the deadline.
Useful Links
- Apply Here: https://sayouth.mobi
- Search Keyword: Project 20K
- Department of Employment & Labour Website: www.labour.gov.za