DFFE Graduate Internship Programme 2026 to 2028 Now Open for Applications
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is inviting unemployed South African graduates to apply for the DFFE Graduate Internship Programme for the 2026 to 2028 cycle. This government internship programme provides graduates with valuable workplace experience in the public sector while allowing them to develop practical skills related to their academic qualifications. The internship runs for a period of 24 months and offers an opportunity for young professionals to contribute to environmental management and sustainable development initiatives in South Africa. Applications are open to graduates who hold at least a three year formal qualification from a recognised higher education institution. The closing date for applications is 31 March 2026, and interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline.
The programme aims to empower graduates with real work exposure while strengthening capacity within the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. Interns will work alongside experienced professionals and gain insight into government operations, environmental policy development, and administrative processes. This opportunity is particularly beneficial for graduates who want to build careers in environmental management, public administration, conservation, or related fields. By participating in this programme, interns can gain the professional experience needed to compete effectively in the job market.
Monthly Stipend and Programme Duration
Successful candidates selected for the internship programme will receive a monthly stipend of R7,860.50 for the duration of the programme. The internship runs for 24 months from 2026 to 2028 and is designed to provide structured learning and practical exposure within the department. Interns will work under supervision while contributing to various departmental functions and projects.
The programme also supports the government’s commitment to developing young professionals by equipping them with workplace experience, skills development, and an understanding of public service operations.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements to qualify for the internship programme:
• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be unemployed at the time of application
• Must have completed a minimum three year qualification from a recognised higher education institution
• Must not have previously participated in an internship programme within the public service
The Department encourages applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds and is committed to promoting representativity in terms of race, gender, and disability. Persons living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Procedure
Applicants must follow the correct procedure when submitting their applications to ensure they are considered. The department will only review complete and correctly submitted applications.
Required application documents include:
• A completed and signed new Z83 application form
• A detailed CV with more than one reference
Shortlisted candidates will later be asked to submit certified copies of their identity document, qualifications, and recent academic transcripts.
Important application instructions include:
• On the Z83 form, clearly indicate “DFFE INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME” in the position section and include the reference number from the advert
• Submit the Z83 form and CV together in a single PDF document when applying online
• Applications submitted as image files or screenshots will not be accepted
• Incomplete or late applications will not be considered
Application Submission Locations
Applications can be submitted by post, hand delivery, or email depending on the region where the applicant resides.
Inland Regions
Free State, Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West
Postal applications should be sent to:
Director General
Internship Programme
Private Bag X447
Pretoria
0001
Hand delivered applications can be submitted at:
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Environment House
473 Steve Biko Road
Arcadia
Pretoria
0001
Email applications for inland regions can be sent to:
Coastal Regions
Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape and Western Cape
Postal applications should be sent to:
Director General
Internship Programme
Private Bag X9052
Cape Town
8001
Hand delivered applications can be submitted at:
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
3 Foretrust Building
Martin Hammerschlag Way
Foreshore
Cape Town
8001
Or at the Pietermaritzburg office:
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
185 Langalibalele Street
Old Mutual Building, 5th Floor
Pietermaritzburg
Email addresses for coastal region applications are listed with each specific reference number in the internship advert.
How to Apply
Graduates interested in participating in the DFFE Graduate Internship Programme can access the official application page and additional information online.
Apply here: DFFE Graduate Internship Programme Application
Download the Z83 form here: Official Z83 Application Form
The DFFE Graduate Internship Programme provides a valuable opportunity for unemployed graduates to gain meaningful work experience in government while contributing to environmental protection and sustainable development. Applicants who meet the requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date of 31 March 2026.
