Western Cape Government Opens Graduate Internship Programme for 2026/2027

The Western Cape Government, through the Department of the Premier, has opened applications for its Graduate Internship Programme for 2026/2027.

This structured Youth Development Programme targets unemployed South African graduates residing in the Western Cape, offering valuable on-the-job training and practical workplace experience across various provincial departments.

Internship Location

Cape Town CBD, Western Cape

Closing Date

02 March 2026

Graduate Internship Programme Overview

Programme Name: Graduate Internship Programme 2026/2027
Reference Number: WCG260203-4
Tracking Number: GRAD 2026–2027
Job Type: Internship
Duration: 3 to 24 months
Stipend: Paid (as determined by the Department)
Location: Cape Town CBD, Western Cape

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is ideal if you:

Are between 20 and 35 years old
Are a South African citizen residing in the Western Cape
Are unemployed and seeking practical work experience
Hold a completed:
- Certificate (NQF Level 5)
- Diploma (NQF Level 6)
- Degree (NQF Level 7)
- Postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8 and higher)
Are financially constrained and need career exposure, mentorship, and professional networks

QUICK LINKS:

Departments Offering On-the-Job Training

Successful interns will be placed in one of the following provincial departments:

Agriculture
Police Oversight and Community Safety
Cultural Affairs and Sport
Department of the Premier
Economic Development and Tourism
Environmental Affairs & Development Planning
Department of Infrastructure
Local Government
Mobility Department
Provincial Treasury
Social Development

Why You Should Apply

By joining this programme, you will:

Gain hands-on workplace experience
Build contactable references for your CV
Develop professional and workplace skills
Gain exposure to government operations
Make informed career decisions with guidance and support

Required Competencies

Applicants should demonstrate:

Good written and verbal communication skills in at least two official Western Cape languages
Computer literacy (MS Office)
Ability to operate basic office equipment
Strong planning and organising skills

How to Apply (Online Only)

All applications must be submitted online before the closing date.

Phase 1: Registration

Click “Create Account” on the Western Cape Government e-Recruitment portal
Complete your profile and upload:
- CV (preferably MS Word)
- South African ID
- Qualification certificates or academic results
Submit your profile
Verify your email address via the link sent to you

Phase 2: Application

Search for Graduate Internship Programme 2026/2027
Click “Apply” on the advert
Complete the application questions and submit
Receive email confirmation of your application

Apply here:
https://westerncapegov.erecruit.co/candidateapp/Jobs/View/WCG260203-4

Important Notes

Closing Date: 02 March 2026
Only online applications will be accepted
No emailed, faxed, or late applications will be considered
There is no fixed start date – applications remain on the database for 12 months
Final results and personal details will be verified
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
No relocation, accommodation, or travel costs will be covered

Applicants without computer access may use:

Local libraries
Thusong Service Centres
E-Community Forums and e-Centres
Western Cape Government Walk-in Contact Centres
Internet cafés

Enquiries

Ms B. Kirkwood: 021 483 2024
Ms Y. Dempers: 021 483 0742
e-Recruitment Helpdesk: 0861 370 214
(Monday–Friday, 08:00–16:00)

Closing Date Reminder