The Western Cape Government (WCG) has officially opened applications for its Graduate Internship Programme 2025/2026, a youth development initiative aimed at unemployed South African graduates living in the Western Cape. This programme provides a valuable opportunity for young graduates to gain practical work experience and develop essential skills, making them more competitive in the job market.
What is the Graduate Internship Programme?
The Graduate Internship Programme is designed to help South African graduates between the ages of 20 and 35 gain hands-on work experience in various provincial government departments. Internships range from 3 to 24 months, offering a real-world learning environment that bridges the gap between academic qualifications and the demands of the workplace.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen residing in the Western Cape.
- Be between 20 and 35 years old.
- Hold a completed qualification from an accredited institution: this can be a Certificate (NQF 5), Diploma (NQF 6), Degree (NQF 7), or Postgraduate Qualification (NQF 8 and higher).
- Ideally, applicants should be financially constrained with limited career support networks.
- Preference is given to those who studied at Western Cape institutions.
Why Should Graduates Apply?
This internship offers numerous benefits:
- Skill Development: Interns acquire practical skills and valuable workplace experience.
- Career Exposure: It provides a clearer understanding of career paths and helps in making informed choices.
- Professional Networking: Interns build contacts that can assist in future job searches.
- References: Gaining contactable work references that enhance CV credibility.
- Stipend: A monthly stipend is paid to support interns during their internship period.
Available Departments for Internship
Interns will receive on-the-job training in various provincial government departments, including:
- Agriculture
- Police Oversight and Community Safety
- Cultural Affairs and Sport
- Department of the Premier
- Economic Development and Tourism
- Environmental Affairs & Development Planning
- Department of Infrastructure
- Local Government
- Mobility Department
- Provincial Treasury
- Social Development
Application Process
The application process is fully online and involves two phases:
Phase 1: Registration
- Create an account on the Western Cape Government Careers portal.
- Fill in the required personal information and attach necessary documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) preferably in MS Word format
- South African Identity Document (ID)
- Academic qualification certificates and results
- Submit the registration form.
- Verify your email through a link sent to your inbox.
- Registration completion confirmation is sent via email.
Phase 2: Application
- Log in to your account.
- Find the Graduate Internship Programme advertisement.
- Click “APPLY” and complete the application questions.
- Submit your application.
- Receive email confirmation of application receipt.
Apply Now!
Important: Only online applications will be accepted. No late, emailed, or faxed applications will be considered.
Support for Applicants Without Internet Access
If applicants do not have personal internet access, the Western Cape Government encourages them to use facilities such as:
- Local libraries
- Thusong Service Centres
- E-Community Forums and e-Centres in rural areas
- Western Cape Government Walk-in Contact Centre
- Internet cafés
Key Competencies Required
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Good communication skills in at least two official Western Cape languages.
- Basic computer literacy, including MS Office skills.
- Ability to use office equipment.
- Planning and organizing skills.
Additional Information
- The Western Cape Government will verify all qualifications and personal information in compliance with legislation.
- There is no fixed start date; successful applications will be held on file for up to 12 months.
- Applicants should be aware that the programme does not cover costs related to relocation, subsistence, or travel.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Closing Date
Applications close on 2 June 2025. Prospective interns are urged to submit their applications before this deadline to avoid disqualification.
Contact Details for Enquiries
For further information, applicants can contact:
- Ms B Kirkwood at (021) 483 2024
- Ms Y Dempers at (021) 483 0742
Technical support for the online application system is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 16:00 via the helpline at 0861 370 214.
Check also: Servest Graduate Programme (2-Year Contract)
The Western Cape Government Graduate Internship Programme 2025/2026 is a golden opportunity for unemployed graduates to kick-start their careers. By gaining practical experience, building professional networks, and improving their skills, interns stand a better chance of securing meaningful employment in the future. Graduates are encouraged to apply online before the 2 June 2025 deadline and take the first step toward a brighter career path.