National Department of Health Graduate Internships 2026: X5 Posts

The National Department of Health is offering unemployed South African graduates an exciting opportunity to gain valuable work experience through its Graduate Internship Programme. This 24-month programme is based in Pretoria and aims to equip graduates with practical skills in the public service sector.

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 internship programme is designed to provide unemployed graduates with occupationally based workplace experience. The goal is to improve their employability and introduce them to a career in the Public Service. Participants will gain hands-on experience over a 24-month period.

The programme is specifically for individuals who have not previously participated in or been exposed to an internship. It offers a structured learning environment within the National Department of Health.

About the National Department of Health

The National Department of Health is the government department responsible for health in South Africa. It plays a key role in developing and implementing national health policies and programmes. The department works to improve the health and well-being of all South Africans.

Available Internship Opportunities

The internship is within the Chief Directorate: Trauma, Violence and EMS. There are 5 posts available.

What the Internship Offers

Successful interns will gain practical experience and training in various aspects of public health administration. This includes:

• Assisting with the coordination of import and export permit programmes.
• Auditing Microbiology laboratories for registration.
• Monitoring biosafety and biosecurity requirements.
• Registering and auditing Tissue Banks and Stem Cell Banks.
• Responding to enquiries from the clinical trial industry and health research sectors.
• Assisting postgraduate students in health sciences.
• Responding to enquiries from tissue and stem cell banks.

Programme Duration and Location

This internship programme will run for a duration of 24 months. The placement for this opportunity is in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Possess a Grade 12 certificate.
• Hold a National Diploma or Degree at NQF Level 6 in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or Health Sciences.
• Demonstrate good written and verbal communication skills.
• Exhibit good interpersonal skills and attention to detail.
• Possess scientific analytical ability and computer literacy.
• Be unemployed.
• Must not have previously participated in an internship programme.

Competencies Required

The ideal candidate should possess the following skills and abilities:

• Strong scientific analytical ability.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Good computer literacy.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong interpersonal skills.

Who Should Apply?

This internship is best suited for unemployed graduates who have studied Microbiology, Biotechnology, Health Sciences, or laboratory-related disciplines. It is ideal for individuals with a keen interest in regulatory work, laboratory compliance, biosafety, biosecurity, and public health administration.

Required Documents

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

• A detailed, updated CV.
• A certified copy of your South African ID document.
• A certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate.
• Certified copies of your National Diploma or Degree certificate.
• Academic transcripts or record.
• A cover letter motivating your application.
• Proof of residence.

How to Apply

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

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

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

Email Applications:
Send your application to:
[email protected]
Ensure you quote the Reference Number: NDOH 81/2026 in the subject line of your email.

Applicants should ensure all required documents are attached and that personal details are correct before submitting.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment. Late applications will not be considered. Applicants must ensure they meet all the minimum requirements before applying. Incomplete applications may be disqualified. Certified copies of documents may be required.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 26 October 2026. Applicants are urged to submit their applications well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the National Department of Health Internship 2026?
Unemployed South African graduates with a Grade 12 certificate and a National Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6) in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or Health Sciences can apply.

What is the closing date for the National Department of Health Internship 2026?
The closing date for applications is 26 October 2026.

Does the National Department of Health Internship 2026 pay a stipend?
Yes, successful interns will receive a stipend of R8 174.75 per month.

What documents are needed to apply for this internship?
You will need an updated CV, certified copies of your ID, Grade 12 certificate, diploma/degree certificate, academic record, cover letter, and proof of residence.

Can I apply if I have already completed an internship?
No, this internship is for individuals who have not previously participated in or been exposed to an internship programme.

How do I apply for the internship?
Applications can be submitted by post to Private Bag X399, Pretoria 0001, hand-delivered to the Dr AB Xuma Building, or emailed to [email protected], quoting Reference Number: NDOH 81/2026.