The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) has officially opened applications for its 2025–2027 Internship Programme, inviting unemployed South African graduates to gain meaningful workplace experience within the public sector. Running over 24 months, this programme provides hands-on exposure to administrative, governance, and legal functions within the Higher Education environment.

For graduates seeking professional development, practical skills, and a pathway into government careers, this internship offers a crucial stepping stone.

Programme at a Glance

• Programme: DHET Internship Programme 2025–2027
• Duration: 24 months (non-renewable)
• Eligibility: Unemployed South African graduates with a relevant Diploma or Degree
• Positions: Legal Services Intern; College Council Secretariat Intern (x2)
• Stipend: As per DHET internship policy
• Closing Date: 28 November 2025 at 14:00
• Where to Apply: [email protected] / Lephalale TVET College

About the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)

DHET oversees South Africa’s entire post-school system, which includes:

• Universities
• TVET Colleges
• Community Education and Training Colleges
• Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs)
• Skills development programmes and youth employability initiatives

The department plays a critical role in aligning education with labour market needs, supporting institutional governance, and expanding access to higher learning. This internship programme is part of DHET’s broader commitment to:

• Strengthening public-sector capacity
• Supporting graduate employability
• Improving governance and compliance systems
• Developing skilled professionals for the future

By positioning interns within real administrative and legal environments, the programme offers graduates an opportunity to contribute to service delivery while gaining essential workplace skills.

Internship Positions Available for 2025–2027

The DHET internship intake includes three posts across legal and administrative fields. Each role targets graduates with foundational training in governance or law.

POST 1: Intern – Legal Services (Ref: 12/2025)

This role is ideal for graduates looking to build practical experience within public-sector legal functions.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must hold:

• Matric / NCV Level 4
• A 3-year Diploma in Paralegal Studies, OR
• A 4-year Degree in Law / Legal Studies

Key Exposure Areas

• Legal document administration
• Contract and compliance support
• Policy interpretation
• Case file management
• Public-sector legal frameworks
• Regulatory analysis

This internship provides valuable entry-level experience for graduates aspiring to careers in legal compliance, public service advisory roles, or legal administration.

POST 2: Intern – College Council Secretariat (Ref: LEPTVET 11/2025)

Number of positions: 2

This internship focuses on governance, council support, and administrative management within a TVET institutional environment.

Minimum Requirements

Candidates must have:

• Matric / NCV Level 4
• A recognised three-year Diploma (NQF Level 6) in:
  • Public Management
  • Public Administration
  • Office Management
  • Office Administration
  • Office Management and Technology

Key Exposure Areas

• Secretariat functions and council administration
• Minute-taking and record-keeping
• Governance compliance support
• Reporting and documentation
• Co-ordination of council meetings and subcommittees
• Office administration and leadership support

This internship is well suited for graduates interested in public management, institutional governance, and administrative operations.

How to Apply for the DHET Internship Programme 2025–2027

Applicants must ensure that all required documents are submitted on time. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

1. Email Applications

Send your full application package to:

[email protected]

Ensure the subject line includes the correct Reference Number.

2. Hand-Delivered / Courier Applications

Submit your application to:

Lephalale TVET College – Central Office
Corner Nelson Mandela & Ngoako Ramatlhodi Drives
Onverwacht
Lephalale
0557

3. Postal Applications

Mail your application to:

Private Bag X210
Lephalale
0555

Important: Postal applications must be sent early to meet the closing deadline.

Contact Details for Enquiries

Applicants with questions can contact:

• Mr PM Mphethi or Ms MN Morena
• Tel: (014) 763 2252

Closing Date

All applications must be received by:

28 November 2025 at 14:00

Late submissions will not be accepted.

Why This Internship Matters for South African Graduates

Youth unemployment remains a major challenge in South Africa, and graduates often lack the practical experience needed to secure permanent employment. DHET’s internship programme addresses this gap by:

• Providing structured workplace exposure
• Enhancing administrative and legal skills
• Giving graduates access to governance and compliance roles
• Allowing participation in meaningful public-sector projects
• Improving readiness for future employment

The 24-month duration ensures that interns build strong portfolios with real responsibilities, positioning them for opportunities in government departments, educational institutions, and related sectors.

What Makes this Programme Valuable

1. Practical Experience in Government

Interns receive direct exposure to how policies, governance structures, and public-sector regulations operate.

2. Professional Networking

Interns engage with department officials, administrators, and external stakeholders, helping expand their professional networks.

3. Skill Development

These roles build important career skills such as:

• Policy interpretation
• Legal administration
• Minute-taking and reporting
• Governance compliance
• Office and document management

4. Increased Employability

A 24-month internship with DHET or a TVET college significantly enhances a graduate’s CV, offering experience that is recognised across the public sector.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the DHET Internship Programme?

Unemployed South African graduates with relevant diplomas or degrees in law, paralegal studies, office administration, or public management.

2. Do I need previous work experience?

No. The internship is designed for recent graduates with little to no formal work experience.

3. How long is the internship?

It runs for 24 months and is non-renewable.

4. Is there a stipend?

Yes. Stipends are provided according to the DHET internship policy.

5. Can I hand-deliver my application?

Yes. Applications can be hand-delivered or sent via courier to Lephalale TVET College.

6. How many positions are available?

Three positions:

• 1 Legal Services Intern
• 2 College Council Secretariat Interns

7. Can late applications be considered?

No. Late submissions are automatically disqualified.

8. What should I include in my application?

A comprehensive application typically includes:

• Application letter
• Updated CV
• Certified copies of ID and qualifications
• Reference number of the post

9. Is this programme open nationwide?

Yes, although the placement is at Lephalale TVET College, the programme is open to graduates across South Africa.

Final Thoughts

The DHET Internship Programme 2025–2027 offers a rare opportunity for graduates to gain in-depth experience within South Africa’s Higher Education sector. Whether you are interested in legal services or governance administration, this programme provides a solid foundation for a long-term career in the public sector.

Graduates are encouraged to apply early and ensure all documents are correctly submitted.

Applications close on 28 November 2025 at 14:00.
Start your government-career journey today.

Thabang Seleka

Thabang Seleka is the Founder of Sseta Careers, an independent platform that provides verified information on learnerships, bursaries, and internships in South Africa. He focuses on delivering clear, accurate guidance to help job seekers make informed career decisions. Contact: [email protected]