National Department of Health Graduate Internships 2026: X5 Posts

The National Department of Health is inviting unemployed South African graduates to apply for its Graduate Internship Programme for 2026-2028. This opportunity is based in Pretoria and offers a monthly stipend.

Application Closing Date: 26 October 2026
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Programme Duration: 24 months
Stipend: R8 174.75 per month
Minimum Qualification: National Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6)
Opportunity Type: Internship

About the Department of Health Graduate Internship Programme

This programme is designed to provide unemployed graduates with valuable practical work experience. It aims to improve their employability within the Public Service.

The internship lasts for 24 months. It is intended to give participants occupationally based workplace experience.

Applicants must not have participated in an internship programme before to be eligible. This ensures the opportunity is available to those who have not yet had this experience.

About the National Department of Health

The National Department of Health is the government body responsible for health in South Africa. It works to improve the health and well-being of all citizens.

The department focuses on various aspects of public health, including policy development, service delivery, and health system strengthening. It operates across different sectors to achieve its goals.

Available Internship Opportunities

This internship programme has five posts available within the Chief Directorate: Trauma, Violence and EMS. The specific posts are for interns.

What the Internship Offers

Successful interns will gain practical experience in several key areas. They will assist with coordinating import and export permit programmes.

Interns will also be involved in auditing Microbiology laboratories for registration. Monitoring biosafety and biosecurity requirements is another key responsibility.

The role includes registering and auditing Tissue Banks and Stem Cell Banks. Responding to enquiries from the clinical trial industry and health research sectors is also part of the duties.

Programme Duration and Location

This internship programme is scheduled to run for 24 months. All positions are based in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must have completed Grade 12.
• Must possess a National Diploma or Degree at NQF Level 6.
• The qualification must be in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related Health Sciences or laboratory discipline.
• Must have good written and verbal communication skills.
• Must possess good interpersonal skills.
• Must demonstrate attention to detail.
• Must have scientific analytical ability.
• Must be computer literate.
• Must be unemployed.
• Must not have previously participated in an internship programme.

Competencies Required

The department is looking for individuals with specific skills and qualities. These include strong communication and interpersonal abilities.

Attention to detail and scientific analytical skills are important. Computer literacy is also a necessary skill for this role.

Who Should Apply?

This internship is ideal for graduates who have studied Microbiology, Biotechnology, or other Health Sciences and laboratory-related fields. It suits individuals with a keen interest in regulatory work.

The programme is also suitable for those interested in laboratory compliance, biosafety, biosecurity, and public health administration. Applicants should be eager to learn and contribute to public health initiatives.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to prepare the following documents for their application:

• A completed application form (if applicable, check official advert).
• A detailed, updated CV.
• Certified copy of South African ID document.
• Certified copy of Grade 12 certificate.
• Certified copies of National Diploma or Degree certificates.
• Academic transcripts.

Applicants must ensure all documents are certified and submitted as per the application instructions.

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted via post, hand delivery, or email.

Postal Applications:
Address applications to:
The Director-General
National Department of Health
Private Bag X399
Pretoria
0001

Hand-Delivered Applications:
Deliver applications to:
Reception – Brown Application Box
Dr AB Xuma Building
1112 Voortrekker Road
Pretoria Townlands 351-JR
Pretoria

Email Applications:
Send applications to:
[email protected]

Ensure you quote Reference Number: NDOH 81/2026 in the subject line of your email.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment. Late applications may not be considered.

Applicants must ensure they meet all the minimum requirements before applying. Incomplete applications may be disqualified.

Ensure all submitted documents are certified and valid.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 26 October 2026.

Applicants should ensure their applications are submitted well before this date.

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