In South Africa’s ongoing quest to strengthen skills development and public service delivery, bursary programmes play a critical role in supporting young talents. The Bursaries Programme 2026 invites qualified candidates to apply for a fixed 24-month contract at the Department of Skills Development Implementation. This initiative offers a monthly stipend and hands-on experience to bridge academic learning with practical skills in the public sector.
What the Bursary Programme Offers
The bursary is designed to provide financial support and work exposure to students and recent graduates holding a National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in fields such as Public Management, Public Administration, or Project Management. Selected candidates will be stationed at the Pretoria Head Office and receive a monthly stipend of R7,860.40 to help cover living and educational expenses during their contract period.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must have completed relevant tertiary qualifications in the aforementioned fields. The bursary aims to develop skills critical for effective governance and project execution in the public sector, ensuring that young professionals are well-equipped for future leadership roles.
For enquiries, applicants may contact:
- Mr MS Ramogayana: (012) 943 2923 / 083 418 2618
- Ms TJ Moloto: 081 035 7725
Why This Bursary Matters
South Africa’s public service requires a continuous influx of skilled individuals who understand the complexities of government operations and project management. This bursary is not just financial aid—it’s a stepping stone to meaningful employment and contribution to national development.
Graduate Internship and Work Integrated Learning Programme 2025-2027: A Pathway to Practical Experience
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is proud to announce the Graduate Internship and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme for the financial years 2025/2026 to 2026/2027. This programme is designed to provide unemployed graduates with practical work experience in their respective fields, contributing to skills development and employability.
Commitment to Equal Opportunity and Inclusivity
The DHET emphasizes its commitment to affirmative action employment and strives to promote representation across race, gender, and disability within its programmes. Individuals living with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply, highlighting the department’s dedication to inclusivity and equal opportunity.
Who Should Apply?
- South African citizens who have never previously participated in any internship programme within the public service.
- Graduates who have satisfied academic requirements in their field of study.
- Unemployed graduates seeking meaningful workplace experience.
- Applicants who have never served as contract workers or graduate interns in the public sector before.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the National Skills Fund’s application portal. The process requires applicants to:
- Complete and electronically sign the official Z83 application form.
- Upload a comprehensive CV.
- Attach all relevant supporting documents.
The application platform can be accessed at:
http://z83.ngnscan.co.za/apply
Applicants are advised to carefully follow the instructions and ensure all documentation is complete and accurate before submission. Due to high demand, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. It is also important to note:
- Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) before application.
- Applicants may apply for more than one field of study but must submit separate applications for each.
- Certified copies of supporting documents will be requested from shortlisted candidates at the interview stage.
- Failure to submit required documents by the closing date will result in the application being disregarded.
Closing Date
All applications must be submitted before 29 August 2025.
What You Gain from the Graduate Internship and WIL Programme
The Graduate Internship and WIL Programme offers more than just a contract—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the real-world environment of public service. Through this programme, graduates gain:
- Hands-on work experience in their academic field.
- Insight into government operations and public sector challenges.
- Professional mentorship and development opportunities.
- A competitive edge in the job market by building practical skills and networks.
Graduates completing this programme will be better positioned to transition from academic study to permanent employment, supporting South Africa’s national development goals.
Important Notes for Applicants
- Applicants must be honest and thorough in completing their applications.
- Only applications with complete and verifiable information will be considered.
- The programme reserves the right to verify qualifications, citizenship, and conduct security vetting.
- Previous participation in similar internship programmes disqualifies applicants.
- Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates due to the volume of applications.
Summary: How to Maximize Your Application’s Success
- Ensure you meet all the academic and eligibility requirements before applying.
- Submit your fully completed and signed Z83 form online along with a detailed CV.
- Prepare certified copies of your supporting documents for potential submission.
- If you have foreign qualifications, get them evaluated by SAQA ahead of time.
- Double-check all information to avoid errors or omissions.
- Apply before the closing date: 29 August 2025.
Final Thoughts: Taking the Next Step in Your Career
The bursaries and graduate internship programmes for 2026-2027 represent vital pathways to advancing your career within South Africa’s public service sector. They embody the government’s commitment to skills development, equal opportunity, and national progress. By applying, you are positioning yourself to gain valuable experience, financial support, and a foot in the door of government employment.
Make sure you seize this opportunity to grow professionally, contribute to your community, and help shape South Africa’s future.
If you would like to explore more bursaries, internships, and learnerships available in South Africa’s public sector and beyond, stay tuned for updates and detailed application guides to help you succeed.
