Youth Development: Graduate Internship Programme 2025/2026 in Western Cape

The Western Cape Government is inviting unemployed South African graduates, residing in the Western Cape, to apply for its Graduate Internship Programme for 2025/2026. This initiative provides a valuable opportunity for young individuals to gain practical work experience, contributing to their career development over a period of 3 to 24 months. The programme aims to provide youth with the skills needed to enhance their future job prospects.

Purpose of the Programme

The Graduate Internship Programme is part of a broader Youth Development initiative designed to assist graduates in making informed career choices while acquiring essential hands-on experience. By participating in the programme, interns will build marketable skills, gain exposure to various career paths, and establish a network of contacts to support their professional growth.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for this internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen
• Reside in the Western Cape
• Be between the ages of 20 and 35
• Have completed one of the following qualifications:
  • Certificate (NQF 5)
  • Diploma (NQF 6)
  • Degree (NQF 7)
  • Postgraduate Qualification (NQF 8 and higher)

Preference will be given to those who have financial constraints or lack a support network to help them navigate their career choices.

Available Internship Departments

Successful candidates will receive on-the-job training in one of the following departments:

• 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

Skills Required

The ideal candidates should possess the following skills:

• Strong communication abilities, both written and verbal, in at least two of the official languages of the Western Cape
• Proficiency in computer literacy, particularly with MS Office
• Ability to operate basic office equipment
• Strong planning and organizational skills

Remuneration

The internship provides a stipend, the amount of which is determined by the department offering the placement. However, applicants should be aware that the programme does not cover any relocation, subsistence, or travel expenses.

Application Process

Interested applicants must apply online through the Western Cape Government Careers platform. The application process is divided into two phases:

Phase 1: Registration

1. Create an account by clicking on “Create Account.”
2. Fill in the required information and upload the necessary documents, including your CV (preferably in MS Word), ID, and academic qualifications.
3. Complete your profile and submit it.
4. After submitting your details, you will receive an email to verify your email address.
5. Once verified, your registration is complete.

Phase 2: Application

1. After registration, find the specific internship opportunity and click on “APPLY.”
2. Complete the application form and submit it.
3. An email confirmation will be sent to acknowledge the receipt of your application.

Important Notes

• The closing date for applications is February 21, 2025.
• Applications will only be accepted online; no late, emailed, or faxed CVs will be considered.
• The Western Cape Government will not be responsible for costs related to relocation, subsistence, or travel.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

For those who do not have access to a computer, several community resources are available, including local libraries, Thusong Service Centres, E-Community Forums, and internet cafés.

This internship programme offers an invaluable opportunity for graduates to build their careers and gain experience that will set them apart in the competitive job market. Don’t miss out—submit your application before the deadline!