National Department of Health Graduate Internships 2026: X5 Posts in Pretoria

The National Department of Health is offering Graduate Internships for 2026-2028 in Pretoria. This programme is open to unemployed South African graduates with a National Diploma or Degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or Health Sciences. It provides valuable work experience 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

The National Department of Health aims to equip unemployed graduates with practical, occupationally based workplace experience through this 24-month internship. The programme is designed to enhance employability and provide a foundation for careers within the public service. Participants will gain exposure to various aspects of public health administration and regulatory work.

This internship is specifically for individuals who have not previously participated in or been exposed to an internship programme. It focuses on structured learning and development within a government department setting. The goal is to bridge the gap between academic learning and the demands of a professional environment.

About the National Department of Health

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

The department operates across different sectors of healthcare, including public health, disease prevention, and health system management. It is committed to ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for everyone in the country.

Available Internship Opportunities

The Department of Health is offering five internship positions within the Chief Directorate: Trauma, Violence and EMS. These roles are focused on specific areas of public health and laboratory compliance.

• Microbiology
• Biotechnology
• Health Sciences
• Laboratory-related disciplines

What the Internship Offers

Successful interns will gain significant practical experience and develop key professional skills. The programme provides a monthly stipend to support participants during their tenure.

• 24 months of structured workplace experience.
• A monthly stipend of R8 174.75.
• Exposure to public health administration and regulatory processes.
• Development of scientific analytical abilities.
• Opportunities to work on diverse projects within the department.
• Enhanced career prospects in the public health sector.

Programme Duration and Location

This internship programme will run for a duration of 24 months. All positions are based in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa, offering interns the chance to work within the nation’s capital.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the internship:

• 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.
• Be computer literate.
• Must be unemployed.
• Must not have participated in an internship programme before.

Competencies Required

The department is looking for individuals who possess specific skills and personal qualities that will enable them to succeed in the internship.

• Strong scientific analytical ability.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Good computer literacy.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• A willingness to learn and adapt.
• A professional attitude towards work.

Who Should Apply?

This internship is ideal for unemployed South African graduates who have completed a National Diploma or Degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or Health Sciences. It is particularly suited for individuals interested in gaining practical experience in regulatory work, laboratory compliance, biosafety, biosecurity, and public health administration.

Graduates looking to kick-start their careers in the public health sector and contribute to national health initiatives will find this opportunity highly beneficial.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to prepare and submit the following documents with their application:

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

Ensure all documents are certified and not older than three months.

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted via post, hand delivery, or email. Ensure you quote the correct reference number in your application.

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]
Quote Reference Number: NDOH 81/2026 in the subject line.

For attention: Ms M Shitiba.

Important Notes

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

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 26 October 2026. Ensure your application is submitted well before this date to avoid any disappointment.

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