National Planning Coordination Secretariat 2026 Internship: Applications Now Open for Social Sciences Graduates
Introduction
The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) has officially opened applications for the 2026 National Planning Coordination Secretariat Internship Programme. Offering a competitive monthly stipend of R7 860.50, this two-year internship is designed to support young graduates seeking workplace exposure within South Africa’s public sector.
The programme is housed under the Chief Directorate: Social, one of the DPME’s core branches responsible for planning, coordination, and long-term social development strategies aligned with the National Development Plan (NDP).
For graduates eager to gain real-world experience in research, policy, planning, and national coordination, this internship presents a rare opportunity to join a high-impact government environment.
About the Internship
The National Planning Coordination Secretariat plays a central role in shaping South Africa’s long-term national planning framework. Interns placed in this directorate will contribute to activities that include:
- Social sector planning and analysis
- Stakeholder engagement and coordination
- Monitoring the implementation of national priorities
- Supporting research and reporting functions
- Assisting with administrative and project coordination tasks
The experience gained over the 24-month contract is designed to boost employability and equip graduates with crucial skills in governance, planning, and intergovernmental collaboration.
Quick Overview
- Programme: National Planning Coordination Secretariat Internship
- Department: Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME)
- Reference Number: DPME/2025/02
- Duration: 24 months
- Stipend: R7 860.50 per month
- Location: Pretoria
- Closing Date: 05 December 2025 at 16:30
- Minimum Requirement: Degree in Social Science, Education, or Health Sciences
Stipend and Duration
Successful candidates will receive a stipend of R7 860.50 per month for the full 24-month internship period. This provides financial support while enabling graduates to acquire professional skills that enhance future employment prospects.
Location
All duties will be performed at the DPME offices located in Pretoria, including:
330 Grosvenor Street, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028
Applicants must ensure they are able to work at this location for the duration of the internship.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the internship, applicants must hold:
- A Degree in Social Science, Education, or Health Sciences,
- Recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
This makes the programme especially suitable for graduates in fields such as:
- Sociology
- Development Studies
- Public Health
- Psychology
- Education Studies
- Social Development
- Public Policy
Candidates should also demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to work in a structured environment, and a willingness to learn.
Application Process
Applicants may submit their applications via email or physical delivery.
Below are the submission details:
Email Applications
Send completed applications to:
[email protected]
Postal Applications
Address to:
The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME)
Attention: Human Resource Admin & Recruitment
Private Bag X944, Pretoria, 0028
Hand Delivery
Submit to:
330 Grosvenor Street, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028
Important: Always quote the reference number DPME/2025/02 on all submissions.
Documents Required
Applications must be submitted using:
- A signed Z83 application form
- A comprehensive CV with three contactable references
Shortlisted candidates will later be asked to provide:
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Supporting documents such as ID and academic transcripts
Applicants should ensure the reference details include:
- Full name
- Contact numbers
- Email address
- Relationship to the candidate
Screening and Security Requirements
As part of the recruitment process:
- Successful candidates must sign an annual performance agreement
- Applicants must undergo security vetting in line with the Minimum Information Security Standards (MISS)
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted and requested to provide certified documentation.
Closing Date
All applications must be submitted before:
05 December 2025 at 16:30
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Why This Internship Matters
South Africa’s economic and social landscape is shaped significantly by long-term planning and robust policy development. Interns in this programme are exposed to:
- High-level government processes
- Cross-departmental coordination
- National development planning
- Policy formulation and evaluation
- Critical research and reporting
This exposure equips young graduates with a rare understanding of how national development strategies are crafted and implemented.
The Role of the DPME
The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation plays a critical role in:
- Strengthening public sector performance
- Monitoring government programmes
- Ensuring effective implementation of the National Development Plan
- Supporting intergovernmental coordination
By joining this internship, graduates become part of a team focused on improving South Africa’s long-term social outcomes.
How to Ensure a Strong Application
For higher chances of success, applicants should:
- Ensure their CV clearly reflects relevant academic experience
- Use a professional email format and subject line referencing the post
- Write clear descriptions of community work, research projects, or internships completed
- Ensure all reference details are accurate
- Submit the application well before the closing date
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the DPME National Planning Coordination Secretariat Internship?
Anyone with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science, Education, or Health Sciences recognised by SAQA may apply.
2. Is this a paid internship?
Yes. The programme offers a monthly stipend of R7 860.50.
3. How long does the internship last?
The contract runs for 24 months.
4. Where will the internship take place?
All activities take place at the DPME offices in Pretoria.
5. Can I apply online?
Yes. Applications may be emailed to [email protected].
6. Do I need certified copies when applying?
Not initially. Certified documents will only be requested from shortlisted candidates.
7. What is the reference number for this internship?
The reference number is DPME/2025/02 and must be quoted on all submissions.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 National Planning Coordination Secretariat Internship Programme is a valuable stepping stone for young graduates pursuing careers in social development, public policy, education, and health sciences. With hands-on experience in national planning and coordination, interns gain exposure that can shape their professional journey for years to come.
Applicants are encouraged to submit complete and well-prepared applications before the closing date to maximise their chances of selection.
