National Department of Health Graduate Internships 2026: Pretoria Opportunities

The National Department of Health is offering a valuable 24-month Graduate Internship Programme for unemployed individuals. This initiative, running from 2026 to 2028, aims to provide practical work experience within the public service sector. The program is specifically designed for those who have not had prior internship experience, offering a chance to develop essential skills in the health field.

About the Department of Health Graduate Internship Programme

This program is a key initiative by the National Department of Health to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice. It provides graduates with occupationally based workplace experience, enhancing their employability and opening doors to potential careers in public service. Over its 24-month duration, interns will immerse themselves in real-world tasks and responsibilities, gaining insights into the operations of a government health department. The focus is on building a foundation for future success in the sector.

About the National Department of Health

The National Department of Health serves as the primary government body responsible for health services across South Africa. Its mission is to improve the health and well-being of all citizens through the development and execution of effective health policies and programs. The department’s work spans various critical areas, including public health initiatives, medical research, and the regulation of healthcare services, ensuring a structured and responsive approach to national health challenges.

Available Internship Positions in Pretoria

There are five internship positions available within the Chief Directorate: Trauma, Violence and EMS. All these opportunities are located in Pretoria, Gauteng. The reference number for this specific intake is NDOH 81/2026. This offers a focused chance for successful applicants to contribute to a vital area of public health.

What the Internship Offers Interns

Successful candidates will gain substantial practical experience and exposure to diverse aspects of public health administration. Key responsibilities and learning opportunities include:

• Assisting in the coordination of import and export permit programs.
• Conducting audits of Microbiology laboratories for registration purposes.
• Monitoring adherence to biosafety and biosecurity regulations.
• Registering and auditing Tissue Banks and Stem Cell Banks.
• Responding to inquiries from the clinical trial industry and health research sectors.
• Providing support to postgraduate students within health sciences.

These tasks provide a well-rounded understanding of regulatory, compliance, and administrative functions within the health sector.

Programme Duration and Location Details

The internship program is set to last for a total of 24 months. All the available positions are based in Pretoria, the capital city of South Africa, located in the Gauteng province. This consistent location allows interns to fully immerse themselves in the work environment and build strong professional relationships.

Minimum Requirements for Applicants

To be considered for these internship positions, candidates must meet specific criteria:

• Must be a South African citizen.
• Possess a Grade 12 certificate.
• Hold a National Diploma or Degree at NQF Level 6 in Microbiology or Biotechnology.
• Exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrate good interpersonal skills and a high level of attention to detail.
• Possess scientific analytical abilities and computer literacy.
• Must be currently unemployed.
• Must not have previously participated in an internship program.

Meeting these requirements is essential for a successful application.

Competencies the Department Seeks

The National Department of Health is looking for individuals who demonstrate a range of valuable skills and personal qualities. These include:

• Strong communication abilities, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in using computers and relevant software.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for effective teamwork.
• A keen attention to detail to ensure accuracy in tasks.
• Scientific analytical thinking to approach problems logically.
• A genuine willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges.
• A professional attitude and commitment to work responsibilities.

These competencies will help interns thrive in their roles and contribute positively to the department.

Who Should Apply for This Opportunity?

This internship is particularly well-suited for unemployed graduates who have recently completed a National Diploma or Degree in Microbiology or Biotechnology. It is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in regulatory work, laboratory compliance, biosafety, biosecurity, and public health administration within the South African public service. If you are passionate about health sciences and eager to gain practical experience, this program is designed for you.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants are required to prepare a specific set of documents for their application. These typically include:

• A completed application form (if specified in the official advertisement).
• A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A certified copy of your South African ID document.
• A certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate.
• Certified copies of your National Diploma or Degree certificates.
• Academic transcripts or a record of your study results.

It is crucial to ensure that all submitted documents are certified and up-to-date to avoid any issues with the application process.

How to Submit Your Application

Applications can be submitted through several methods: postal mail, hand delivery, or email.

Postal Applications:
Applications sent by post should be addressed to:
The Director-General
National Department of Health
Private Bag X399
Pretoria 0001

Hand-Delivered Applications:
Applications can be delivered in person to:
Reception – Brown Application Box
Dr AB Xuma Building
1112 Voortrekker Road
Pretoria Townlands 351-JR
Pretoria

Email Applications:
For electronic submissions, send your application to:
[email protected]
When submitting via email, it is essential to include the Reference Number: NDOH 81/2026 in the subject line.

Applicants must carefully follow all submission instructions and ensure their applications are sent before the deadline.

Important Notes for Applicants

Only candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted for further assessment stages. Late applications are generally not considered, so timely submission is important. Applicants must verify that they meet all the minimum requirements before applying, as incomplete applications may be disqualified. Double-check that all submitted documents are certified as required by the department.

Closing Date for Applications

The deadline for submitting applications for this internship program is 26 October 2026. It is advisable for applicants to submit their applications well in advance of this date to prevent any last-minute problems or technical issues.