Graduates seeking valuable government experience now have an excellent opportunity through the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) Internship Programme 2026–2028.
This structured 24-month internship programme is designed to give unemployed South African graduates practical workplace exposure in areas linked to economic growth, industrial development, trade policy, finance, governance, and administration.
For young professionals aiming to build careers in government or related sectors, this internship can be a strong first step.
Applications close on 06 May 2026, and all successful candidates will be placed in Sunnyside, Pretoria.
Quick Overview
- Programme Name: the dtic Graduate Internship Programme 2026–2028
- Department: Department of Trade, Industry and Competition
- Duration: 24 Months
- Start Date: 01 July 2026
- End Date: 30 June 2028
- Location: Sunnyside, Pretoria
- Monthly Stipend: R7 860.50
- Minimum Qualification: NQF Level 6 or higher
- Application Methods: Email, Post, Hand Delivery
- Closing Date: 06 May 2026
- Equity Preference: African males and persons with disabilities
Why This Internship Matters
The dtic plays a major role in South Africa’s economic development. Interns gain exposure to national programmes that support:
- Industrial expansion
- Trade promotion
- Regulatory systems
- Economic planning
- Public sector administration
- Business competitiveness
This experience can strengthen future applications for jobs in:
- National departments
- Provincial government
- Municipalities
- State-owned entities
- Regulatory agencies
- Private sector corporate roles
Fields of Study Accepted
Applications are open to unemployed graduates with qualifications at NQF Level 6 or above in relevant fields.
Public Administration and Governance
- Public Management
- Public Administration
Business and Management
- Business Management
- Business Administration
Human Resources
- Human Resource Management
- Human Resource Development
Communication
- Communication
- Public Relations
Legal Studies
- Law
Information Technology
- Software Development
Economic Sciences
- Economics
- Statistics
- Econometrics
- Development Studies
Agriculture and Forestry Economics
- Agricultural Economics
- Forestry Science
Finance and Auditing
- Accounting
- Financial Management
- Cost and Management Accounting
- Internal Auditing
- Auditing
- Risk Management
Natural Sciences
Major subjects including:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Biotechnology
- Bioengineering
Engineering and Industrial Fields
- Mining Engineering
- Metallurgy Commerce
Workplace Safety
- Occupational Health and Safety
Supply Chain and Logistics
- Supply Chain Management
- Procurement
International Relations
- International Politics
Internship Duration and Monthly Stipend
Selected graduates will serve in the programme from:
01 July 2026 to 30 June 2028
Participants will receive a monthly stipend of:
R7 860.50
This is a workplace training opportunity and not permanent employment, but it offers highly valuable experience.
Skills and Competencies Needed
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Professional behaviour
- Integrity
- Strong communication skills
- Deadline management
- Attention to detail
- Analytical thinking
- Ability to work under pressure
- Willingness to learn
- Teamwork skills
Knowledge of government systems may be an added advantage.
Who Should Apply?
You should strongly consider applying if you are:
- Unemployed
- A South African citizen
- Qualified at NQF Level 6 or higher
- Interested in public service careers
- Interested in economic development work
- Looking for structured workplace exposure
- Building a long-term career path
Internship Location
All successful applicants will be based at:
the dtic Campus
Corner of Meintjies and Robert Sobukwe Streets
Sunnyside
Pretoria
Applicants outside Pretoria should begin relocation planning early.
How to Apply
Candidates may use one of three official application methods.
Option 1: Email Application
Send your application to:
Use this subject line format:
Intern2026 – Field of Study
Example:
Intern2026 – Public Management
Option 2: Postal Application
Send to:
The Director: Human Resources Management
Private Bag X84
Pretoria
0001
Option 3: Hand Delivery
Deliver applications to:
the dtic Campus
Corner of Meintjies and Robert Sobukwe Streets
Sunnyside
Pretoria
Important: Z83 Form Requirement
Applicants must submit:
- Completed and signed new Z83 Form only
Do not include these documents unless requested later:
- CV
- Certificates
- Academic transcripts
Many applicants are rejected for not following these instructions.
Documents to Prepare in Advance
Even though they are not required initially, keep these ready:
- Certified ID copy
- Qualification certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Updated CV
These may be requested during shortlisting.
You can also Check:
Enquiries
For questions about the programme, contact:
- Donald Mathavha – 012 394 3864 / 064 850 9379
- Teaman Nghunyule – 012 394 1563 / 060 998 0775
- Ursula Pitse – 012 394 1852
- Vusi Mazibuko – 012 394 5608
Tips to Improve Your Chances
To submit a stronger application:
- Apply before the deadline
- Use the correct email subject line
- Complete the Z83 form carefully
- Choose the correct study field
- Keep your documents ready
- Follow all instructions exactly
It is also wise to apply for multiple graduate opportunities at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this permanent employment?
No. It is a 24-month internship programme.
Can TVET graduates apply?
Only applicants with NQF Level 6 or higher qualifications may apply.
Is relocation necessary?
Yes. Placements are based in Pretoria.
Do I need work experience?
No previous experience is required.
Can previous interns apply?
Yes, if currently unemployed.
Will shortlisted candidates be interviewed?
Yes. Shortlisted applicants are normally contacted for the next stage.
Closing Date
Applications close on 06 May 2026.
Graduates interested in public sector careers should not miss this opportunity to gain respected government experience through the dtic Internship Programme.
Mbalizuke Nkosi
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to sharing opportunities, education updates, and career development information. The editorial team focuses on producing clear, reliable, and easy-to-understand content for students, job seekers, and young professionals.
With a strong interest in youth empowerment, skills development, and access to opportunities, Youth Admin curates and publishes content covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, and study guides across South Africa.
The aim of Mbalizuke Nkosi is to simplify important information and make it accessible to young people who are building their future careers.