The Department of Tourism has opened applications for its 2026–2028 Internship Programme, offering unemployed South African graduates a rare opportunity to gain practical work experience within a national government environment. This two-year structured programme provides a monthly stipend of R7 450.58 and places successful candidates in various units at the Department’s headquarters in Pretoria.
Closing Date: 19 December 2025
Location: Tourism House, Pretoria
The initiative forms part of the Department’s commitment to youth development, sector transformation, and long-term skills investment. For graduates looking to enter the public service or tourism environment, this internship provides foundational experience, mentoring, and exposure to real government operations.
About the Department of Tourism
The Department of Tourism is responsible for driving national tourism growth, shaping policy, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and supporting small businesses and jobs within the sector. As tourism continues to play a central role in South Africa’s economic recovery and development, the Department prioritises building a pipeline of capable professionals who can strengthen the sector’s impact.
Through this internship programme, the Department aims to:
- Equip graduates with industry-ready experience
- Strengthen public service skills
- Support transformation within the tourism sector
- Develop future leaders and administrators
- Promote research, innovation, and effective policy implementation
Interns will gain hands-on exposure while working alongside experienced professionals in governance, ICT, auditing, HR, finance, project management, data systems, and other specialist fields.
Available Internship Opportunities (Reference Numbers DT-INTERN 001 – 022)
Applicants must select one internship post and include the correct reference number on the Z83 form.
Internship Stream: DT-INTERN 001 – 012
- DT-INTERN 001: Graphic Design / Communications / Journalism
- DT-INTERN 002: Digital Transformation
- DT-INTERN 003: Human Resources Management
- DT-INTERN 004: Human Resources Development
- DT-INTERN 005: Management Services / Work Study
- DT-INTERN 006: ICT / Computer Science
- DT-INTERN 007: LLB Degree
- DT-INTERN 008: Internal Auditing / Risk Management
- DT-INTERN 009: Business Administration / Public Management
- DT-INTERN 010: Psychology / Social Work
- DT-INTERN 011: Financial Accounting
- DT-INTERN 012: Supply Chain Management
Internship Stream: DT-INTERN 013 – 022
- DT-INTERN 013: Construction Project Management
- DT-INTERN 014: Economics
- DT-INTERN 015: Financial Analysis
- DT-INTERN 016: Economics and Financial Investment
- DT-INTERN 017: Policy and Development Studies
- DT-INTERN 018: Public & Development Monitoring & Evaluation
- DT-INTERN 019: Information Systems / Data Science / Software Development
- DT-INTERN 020: International Relations
- DT-INTERN 021: Development Studies
- DT-INTERN 022: Policy and Development Studies
These internship categories allow graduates to match their academic qualifications to practical roles within government structures and tourism development programmes.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for the 2026–2028 Internship Programme, applicants must:
Useful Links:
- Be unemployed South African graduates or postgraduates
- Be 35 years old or younger
- Have a qualification relevant to the internship reference number
- Not have previously participated in a public service internship
- Be willing to work full-time at the Department’s Pretoria offices
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Completed and signed New Z83 Form
- Updated and comprehensive CV
Only shortlisted candidates will later be required to provide certified copies of:
- ID document
- Matric certificate
- Highest qualification
- Academic transcript / detailed module list
This streamlined application process helps reduce administrative burden while ensuring fair and transparent recruitment.
How to Apply
You can submit your application through hand delivery, post, or email.
1. Hand Delivery
Tourism House
17 Trevenna Street
Sunnyside
Pretoria, 0002
2. Postal Submission
Private Bag X 424
Pretoria
0001
3. Email Submission
internshipadmin2026-28@tourism.gov.za
Ensure your email subject line includes your reference number.
Example: Application – DT-INTERN 006
Benefits of the Internship Programme
Successful applicants will receive:
A Monthly Stipend of R7 450.58
A competitive allowance designed to support interns throughout the 24-month training period.
Real Work Experience
Interns will participate in day-to-day operations, project coordination, research activities, policy development, reporting, and administrative duties.
Professional Mentorship
Guidance from experienced managers and specialists across different departments.
Exposure to Government Operations
Interns learn how policy is developed, implemented, and monitored within a national department.
Enhanced Employability
After completing the programme, graduates will have valuable experience applicable to both public service and private sector roles.
How to Stand Out as an Applicant
To improve your chances of selection:
- Select only one internship reference number
- Ensure your CV highlights relevant skills and academic strengths
- Complete the Z83 form accurately and in full
- Avoid submitting incomplete documents
- Submit applications before the deadline
- Use a professional email format when applying online
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Unemployed South African graduates aged 35 or younger with a relevant qualification.
2. Can I apply for more than one internship stream?
No. Applicants must select only one internship reference number.
3. Do I need certified copies when I apply?
No. Certified copies are required only from shortlisted candidates.
4. Where will the internship take place?
All interns will be placed at the Department of Tourism in Pretoria.
5. What is the stipend?
Interns will receive a monthly stipend of R7 450.58.
6. What is the duration of the internship?
The programme runs for 24 months, from 2026 to 2028.
7. What is the closing date for applications?
Applications close on 19 December 2025.
Conclusion
The Department of Tourism Internship Programme 2026–2028 is one of the most valuable opportunities for South African graduates seeking real workplace exposure, structured training, and career development. With a competitive monthly stipend, a wide range of internship streams, and a strong focus on skills development, this programme is ideal for young professionals who want to build meaningful careers in government, tourism, data systems, policy, project management, ICT, and financial administration.
Graduates who meet all requirements are encouraged to prepare their documents and apply before the closing date.
