The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has opened applications for its 2026 Internship Programme, offering hundreds of opportunities for graduates across South Africa.
This national internship programme is designed to help young graduates gain valuable workplace experience in environmental management, forestry, finance, administration, science, IT, and other fields.
Successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend of R7 860.50 and will be placed in departmental offices, forestry estates, and environmental facilities across multiple provinces.
DFFE Internship Programme 2026 Overview
Organisation: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Programme: Graduate Internship Programme
Stipend: R7 860.50 per month
Closing Date: 31 March 2026 (16:00)
Internship placements are available in the following provinces:
- Eastern Cape
- Free State
- Gauteng
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Limpopo
- Mpumalanga
- Northern Cape
- North West
- Western Cape
Internship Fields Available
The DFFE Internship Programme includes opportunities across several departments and professional fields such as:
- Environmental Management
- Forestry Operations
- Biodiversity and Conservation
- Climate Change and Air Quality
- Fisheries and Marine Management
- Finance Management Services
- Information Technology
- Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement
- Environmental Programmes
- Administration and Support Services
These internships provide graduates with hands-on experience in government environmental programmes and national conservation initiatives.
Provincial Internship Opportunities
Below is a summary of where internship opportunities are available.
Eastern Cape
Opportunities available in areas such as:
- Bisho Regional Forestry Office
- Ngqeleni Estate
- Keiskammahoek Forest Estate
- Port St Johns Forest Estate
- Mthatha
- Port Elizabeth
Free State
Internships are available in:
- Bloemfontein
- Qwaqwa Nursery
- Gariep Dam
Gauteng
Multiple internships are available at Pretoria Environment House in Pretoria, covering various departments including:
- Biodiversity and Conservation
- Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement
- Climate Change and Air Quality
- Fisheries and Marine Management
- Finance and Administration
KwaZulu-Natal
Available placements include:
- Kwezela State Forest
- Futululu Forest Management Unit
- Pietermaritzburg
- Midmar Dam
Limpopo
Internships are offered in:
- Makhado
- Polokwane
- Waterberg
- Forestry plantations across the province
Mpumalanga
Available positions in:
- Nelspruit
Northern Cape
Opportunities available in:
- Upington
- Kimberley
- Springbok
North West
Internships are available in:
- Brits
- Mahikeng
Western Cape
Opportunities are offered in:
- Cape Town
- Bellville
- Knysna
- Grabouw
- Sea Point Aquarium
Internship Stipend
Successful interns will receive:
Monthly Stipend: R7 860.50
This stipend helps support graduates while they gain practical experience in government environmental programmes.
Youthscope QUICK LINKS:
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Completed new Z83 Application Form
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Applications must be submitted as one PDF document.
Important Application Instructions
When sending your application:
The email subject line must include:
- Reference number
- Job title
Only shortlisted candidates may be asked to submit additional supporting documents later.
How to Apply
Applicants should download the official circular from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to view the full list of internships and application email addresses.
DOWNLOAD CIRCULAR FOR APPLICATION DETAILS
Ensure your application is submitted before the deadline.
Closing Date: 31 March 2026 at 16:00
Late applications will not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for the DFFE Internship Programme?
South African graduates with relevant qualifications in environmental science, forestry, finance, IT, administration, or related fields.
How much do DFFE interns earn?
Interns receive a monthly stipend of R7 860.50.
Where will the internships take place?
Internships are available across nine provinces in South Africa, including Gauteng, Limpopo, and Western Cape.
What documents are required to apply?
Applicants must submit a new Z83 form and a detailed CV.
When is the closing date?
Applications close on 31 March 2026 at 16:00.
Final Thoughts
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Internship Programme 2026 is one of the largest government internship opportunities available in South Africa.
With placements across the country and experience in environmental management and conservation, this programme is ideal for graduates looking to start a career in the environmental or public sector.
Interested candidates should submit their applications before the 31 March 2026 deadline.
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Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to providing reliable information on opportunities, education, and career development. The platform serves students, graduates, job seekers, and young professionals by delivering accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand content.
Through informative and professionally curated content, YouthScope.co.za aims to equip young people with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their education and future careers.
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