Unemployed South African graduates have an opportunity to gain paid government work experience through the Department of Tourism Internship Programme for 2026–2028. The programme runs for 24 months, is based in Pretoria, and offers a monthly stipend of R7,860.50 while providing structured workplace training in several professional fields.
With applications closing on 22 December 2025, eligible graduates are advised to apply early to avoid missing one of the most comprehensive public sector internship programmes currently available.
A Paid Government Internship Focused on Employability
This tourism department internship forms part of government’s broader efforts to address youth unemployment by creating meaningful pathways into the workplace. Rather than offering short-term exposure, the programme provides two full years of supervised, hands-on experience in a real government environment.
Interns are placed in units aligned with their qualifications and gain practical exposure to daily operations, reporting systems, and professional standards expected in the public sector. The goal is to help graduates translate academic knowledge into workplace-ready skills.
Training areas include tourism management, administration, ICT, finance, communications, research, policy development, and social development.
Internship Overview: Key Information
- Programme: Department of Tourism Internship Programme (2026–2028)
- Duration: 24 months
- Location: Pretoria
- Monthly stipend: R7,860.50
- Closing date: 22 December 2025
- Eligibility: Unemployed South African graduates (35 years or younger)
- Application method: Email or physical submission
- Required form: New Z83
This opportunity is especially suitable for graduates who have never participated in a government internship and are seeking to build a credible work history.
About the Department of Tourism
The Department of Tourism is responsible for developing and implementing policies that support South Africa’s tourism sector, economic growth, and job creation. Its work includes regulation, research, transformation initiatives, and coordination with provincial and national stakeholders.
Through its internship programmes, the department supports skills development while preparing young professionals to contribute meaningfully to public administration and sector development.
Internship Fields Available
Applicants must apply for one internship stream only and clearly indicate the relevant reference number on the New Z83 form.
Available internship fields include:
- Graphic Design, Communications, and Journalism
- Digital Transformation
- Human Resources Management and Development
- ICT, Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Science, Software Development
- Law (LLB)
- Risk Management and Internal Auditing
- Business Administration and Public Management
- Financial Accounting and Supply Chain Management
- Economics, Financial Analysis, and Investment
- Policy, Monitoring and Evaluation
- International Relations and Development Studies
- Psychology and Social Work
This wide range of options allows graduates from different academic backgrounds to apply for placements aligned with their qualifications.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To qualify for the Department of Tourism Internship Programme 2026–2028, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be unemployed at the time of application
- Be 35 years old or younger
- Hold a relevant tertiary qualification
- Have not previously participated in a government internship
- Be available to commit to the full 24-month contract
No prior work experience is required, making the programme accessible to recent graduates.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit one complete application only. Incomplete or duplicate applications will not be considered.
Required documents:
- Completed and signed New Z83 form
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae
- Copy of South African ID
- Copy of Matric certificate
- Copy of highest qualification
- Academic transcript or list of modules
Certified copies will only be required from shortlisted candidates.
Submission options:
Email applications:
internshipadmin2026-28@tourism.gov.za
Physical applications:
Tourism House
17 Trevenna Street
Sunnyside
Pretoria
0002
OR
Private Bag X424
Pretoria
0001
What Interns Should Expect
Interns should expect a formal government working environment with structured supervision, reporting requirements, and performance expectations. While the programme provides valuable learning opportunities, it also requires professionalism, consistency, and commitment.
Completing the internship does not guarantee permanent employment, but it significantly improves employability by providing recognised public sector experience.
Useful Links
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply if I studied through UNISA or another distance-learning institution?
Yes. Graduates from recognised institutions, including distance-learning universities, may apply if their qualification matches the internship field.
Is the R7,860.50 stipend paid monthly?
Yes. The stipend is paid monthly for the duration of the 24-month internship.
Can I apply for more than one internship stream?
No. Applicants must select one stream only and use the correct reference number.
Does completing the internship guarantee a permanent job?
No. The internship does not guarantee employment, but it provides valuable experience that strengthens future job applications.
Final Thoughts
The Department of Tourism Internship Programme for 2026–2028 offers unemployed graduates a structured, paid opportunity to gain practical experience in government while developing skills relevant to the labour market.
With a monthly stipend of R7,860.50, a two-year training period, and multiple fields of placement, this programme stands out as a strong option for graduates preparing for long-term careers.
Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before 22 December 2025.
Article written by Ontonda Teczo
Published: 21 December 2025
Ontonda Teczo is a South Africa–based content publisher and digital researcher focused on government programmes, skills development initiatives, and employment opportunities for young people.
