How to Apply for a Government Printing Works Graduate Internship

This guide will walk you through the process of applying for a Graduate Internship Programme at the Government Printing Works (GPW). This is for unemployed South African graduates seeking practical workplace experience. By following these steps, you can successfully submit your application for one of the 45 available posts. Prerequisites include having the required qualification for the internship you’re applying for and ensuring you meet the minimum requirements for all applicants.

Step 1: Identify Your Internship Opportunity

Before you begin filling out forms, take the time to carefully review the list of available internship opportunities provided by the Government Printing Works (GPW). The goal here is to pinpoint the specific internship post that best aligns with your educational background and career aspirations.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Applying for an internship for which you do not meet the minimum qualification requirements.
• Not thoroughly reading the description of each role to understand its focus and responsibilities.

Here are some of the internship categories and the number of posts available within each:

• Strategic Sourcing – X2 Posts
• Contract Management – X2 Posts
• Financial Services – X4 Posts
• Asset and Inventory Management – X1 Post
• Facilities Management – X2 Posts
• Contracts and Litigation – X1 Post
• Enterprise Risk Management – X1 Post
• Internal Audit – X1 Post
• Office of the CEO – X1 Post
• Office of the General Manager: Corporate Services – X1 Post
• Office of the General Manager: Operations – X1 Post
• Communications – X1 Post
• E-Gazette Contact Centre – X1 Post
• Demand Planning – X1 Post
• Operations Planning – X1 Post
• Sales – East London – X2 Posts
• Digitalization – X1 Post
• Technical Technology Support: Quality, Health and Safety – X1 Post
• Technical Technology Support: Technology Planning – X1 Post
• Rubber Stamps – X1 Post
• Security Management – X1 Post
• Integrity Management and Investigations – X1 Post
• Strategy Planning and Monitoring – X2 Posts
• Enterprise Portfolio Management Office – X1 Post
• Knowledge Management – X1 Post
• ID and Passport Factory – X1 Post
• Paper Stores Central – X1 Post
• Equipment Maintenance – X1 Post
• Service Maintenance – X1 Post
• Employee Benefits and Administration – X1 Post
• Talent Management – X1 Post
• Performance Management & Development System – X1 Post
• Organisational Development and Change Management – X1 Post
• Recruitment and Selection – X1 Post
• Labour Relations – X1 Post
• Employee Health and Wellness – X1 Post
• Occupational Health and Safety – X1 Post

Once you have identified your preferred internship, make sure to note its specific reference number. This number is essential for your application.

Step 2: Gather Required Application Documents

With your chosen internship in mind, the next step is to collect all the necessary documents for your application. Having everything ready beforehand will make the submission process much smoother.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Submitting an outdated Z83 form; only the new version is accepted.
• Attaching unnecessary documents like screenshots or ZIP files, which can cause issues.
• Exceeding the 2MB email attachment limit, which can lead to your application not being received.

Here are the documents you will need:

• Completed New Z83 Form: Ensure all sections are filled out accurately and completely. Double-check for any errors in your personal details.
• Comprehensive CV: Highlight your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications. Tailor it to showcase why you are a good fit for the specific internship.

It’s important to remember that certified copies of qualifications and other supporting documents are only required from shortlisted candidates. You do not need to submit these at the initial application stage.

Step 3: Complete the Z83 Application Form

Now it’s time to fill out the new Z83 Application for Employment form. Accuracy and completeness are key to ensuring your application is considered.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using the old Z83 form, as this will lead to disqualification. Always use the most current version.
• Leaving any required fields blank. Make sure every section is addressed.
• Making errors in your personal details or the reference number for the internship.

When filling out the form, pay close attention to the Reference Number field. This must match the specific internship you are applying for. Also, ensure your Personal Details are entered exactly as they appear on your identification document. Take your time and review the form carefully before submitting it.

Step 4: Prepare Your Email Application (If Applicable)

If you plan to apply via email, it’s crucial to format your application correctly according to the GPW guidelines. This ensures your email is processed efficiently and not overlooked.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Using an incorrect or missing reference number in the subject line, which can cause confusion.
• Sending attachments that exceed the 2MB limit, as these may not be delivered.
• Including file types like screenshots, ZIP, IMG, or JPEG, as these are not accepted.

Follow these steps to prepare your email application:

1. Compose a new email addressed to [email protected].
2. In the subject line, clearly state the reference number of the internship you are applying for. For example, use the format: ‘GPW2026/17 – Digitalization Internship’.
3. Attach your completed new Z83 form and your comprehensive CV.
4. Ensure the total size of your email and all attached documents does not exceed 2MB.

Step 5: Prepare Your Hand-Delivered Application (If Applicable)

For those who prefer to hand-deliver their applications, it’s important to prepare your package carefully to ensure it meets all requirements.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Submitting the old Z83 form instead of the new, required version.
• Arriving after the closing time of 16:00 on the deadline day.
• Not submitting a separate application for each internship if you are applying for more than one position.

Your application package should be delivered to the following address:

Government Printing Works
389 Sophie De Bruyn Street
Pretoria
Gauteng

Remember, if you are applying for multiple internships, you must complete and submit a separate application for each one, making sure to use the correct reference number for each specific role.

Step 6: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline

The final and most critical step is to submit your application either by email or hand delivery before the specified closing date and time. This ensures your efforts are not in vain.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Missing the closing date of 19 October 2026.
• Submitting late applications, as these will not be considered under any circumstances.

Be aware of the exact closing times for each submission method:

• Hand-delivered applications: Must be submitted by 16:00.
• Email applications: Must be sent by 23:59.

It is essential to submit your application on time and ensure it complies with all the requirements outlined. Late or non-compliant applications will not be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions