The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development invites unemployed South African graduates to apply for the Internship Programme 2026 – 2028. The programme offers graduates an opportunity to gain practical workplace experience, industry exposure, and professional training within the public sector environment. Successful applicants will be appointed on a non-renewable contract period of twenty-four (24) months.
This internship programme is designed for graduates who are looking to strengthen their professional skills, improve employability, and gain experience related to their field of study. Interns will be placed in different departmental units where structured learning, mentorship, and workplace training will be provided under the supervision of experienced professionals.
Applications are currently open for several internship positions in Agricultural Engineering, Animal Health, and Land Care. Graduates who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to submit applications before the closing date.
Internship Overview
- Programme: Internship Programme 2026 – 2028
- Contract Duration: 24 Months
- Location: Gauteng Province, South Africa
- Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75 per month
- Closing Date: 29 May 2026
The internship programme targets unemployed South African graduates who have completed qualifications from accredited institutions of higher learning. Preference may be given to candidates whose appointment promotes representativity in terms of race, gender, and disability.
Available Internship Opportunities
Agricultural Engineering Internship
Reference Number: RTDS 2026
Number of Posts: 1
Centre: Head Office, Johannesburg
Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must possess a Degree in Agricultural Engineering or a related qualification.
Internship Duties
Selected interns will receive structured workplace exposure and practical training aligned with the Agricultural Engineering field. Daily responsibilities may include participation in departmental projects, technical support activities, reporting processes, administrative duties, and development initiatives within the placement area.
Interns will also be expected to participate actively in skills development programmes, professional learning opportunities, and workplace activities supervised by qualified professionals.
Animal Health Internship – Pretoria
Reference Number: AH2026/01
Number of Posts: 2
Centre: Pretoria
Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must possess a Diploma or Degree in Animal Health or a related qualification.
Internship Duties
Successful candidates will receive workplace training and practical experience relevant to Animal Health services. Duties may include assisting with animal health programmes, participating in departmental projects, administrative support, field activities, data capturing, reporting tasks, and workplace learning initiatives.
Interns will work under the supervision of experienced officials while gaining industry knowledge and public service exposure.
Animal Health Internship – Germiston
Reference Number: AH2026/02
Number of Posts: 2
Centre: Germiston
Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must possess a Diploma or Degree in Animal Health or a related qualification.
Internship Duties
Interns will receive practical training and structured work exposure related to Animal Health functions and services. Responsibilities may include supporting departmental operations, participating in projects, assisting with fieldwork activities, compiling reports, and attending professional development sessions.
The internship programme aims to equip graduates with workplace competencies and industry-related skills needed for future employment opportunities.
Land Care Internship
Reference Number: EES2026
Number of Posts: 1
Centre: Head Office, Johannesburg
Monthly Stipend: R8 174.75
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must possess a Diploma or Degree in Project Management or Public Management.
Internship Duties
The Land Care internship offers graduates exposure to environmental management support, project coordination, administrative duties, and departmental programmes linked to land care and sustainable development initiatives.
Interns will participate in workplace activities, departmental projects, and capacity-building programmes while working under supervision and mentorship from experienced professionals.
Important Application Instructions
Applications must be submitted by email to:
Applicants must quote the relevant reference number in the email subject line when submitting applications.
Only the following documents are required during the application stage:
- Fully completed and signed Z83 Application Form
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Documents must be combined into one PDF attachment. Applications submitted as JPEG images, screenshots, or separate picture files will not be accepted.
The new prescribed Z83 application form can be obtained from any Public Service Department or Public Service and Administration website.
Shortlisting and Selection Process
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and requested to submit certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents before interviews. Candidates who fail to provide the requested documentation may be disqualified from the recruitment process.
The department may conduct personnel suitability checks as part of the selection process. Shortlisted candidates may also be required to complete pre-entry assessments, including:
- Practical competency assessments
- Integrity and ethical conduct assessments
Applicants must ensure that all information provided during the application process is accurate and complete.
Important Notes for Applicants
The internship programme is intended for graduates who have not previously participated in an internship programme within the Public Service.
Qualifications submitted must be obtained from accredited institutions of higher learning. Applications received after the closing date may not be considered.
Candidates who do not receive feedback within three months after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Why This Internship Matters
The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Internship Programme provides graduates with a valuable opportunity to gain practical work experience within government structures. Many graduates struggle to secure employment due to limited workplace exposure after completing their studies. Internship programmes such as this help bridge the gap between academic qualifications and professional employment.
Graduates participating in the programme may develop technical knowledge, communication skills, administrative experience, teamwork abilities, and professional confidence while working alongside experienced personnel in the public sector.
The programme may also assist graduates in building professional networks, improving career readiness, and preparing for future employment opportunities in agriculture, environmental management, public administration, and related sectors.
For graduates interested in contributing to agricultural development, environmental sustainability, animal health services, and public sector operations, this internship programme presents an important career development opportunity.
Application Closing Date
- Closing Date: 29 May 2026
Late applications may not be accepted. Applicants are encouraged to submit documents before the deadline to avoid possible delays or technical issues during submission.