How to Apply for the National Department of Health Graduate Internship Programme 2026-2028

This guide explains how to apply for the National Department of Health Graduate Internship Programme 2026-2028. It is for unemployed South African graduates with a National Diploma or Degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or related health sciences fields. By following these steps, you will successfully submit your application for this 24-month paid internship in Pretoria, gaining valuable public service experience. Prerequisites include having completed your qualification, being unemployed, and never having participated in an internship programme before. Ensure you have all required documents ready before you begin.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Verify that you meet all the minimum requirements for the National Department of Health Graduate Internship Programme. This includes possessing a Grade 12 certificate and a National Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6) in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related health sciences discipline. You must also demonstrate good written and verbal communication skills, good interpersonal abilities, a keen eye for detail, and scientific analytical skills. Computer literacy is essential, and you must be currently unemployed and have never previously participated in or been exposed to an internship programme.

Outcome: You will know for sure if you qualify to apply, saving you time and effort.

Mistakes to Avoid: Applying without meeting all the essential criteria, especially the ‘never participated in an internship’ rule, as this is a strict requirement.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents for your application. This typically includes your Curriculum Vitae (CV), certified copies of your Grade 12 certificate, certified copies of your National Diploma or Degree certificate, certified copies of your academic transcripts, and a certified copy of your South African identity document.

Outcome: You will have all the essential paperwork ready for submission, ensuring a complete application.

Mistakes to Avoid: Submitting uncertified copies, missing required documents, or having expired certifications.

Step 3: Understand the Internship Details

Familiarize yourself with the specifics of the internship to ensure it aligns with your career goals. The position is an Internship within the Chief Directorate: Trauma, Violence and EMS, with the Reference Number NDOH 81/2026. There are 5 posts available in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa, for a duration of 24 months. The stipend is R8 174.75 per month. Key responsibilities include assisting with coordinating import/export permits, auditing microbiology labs, monitoring biosafety/biosecurity, registering/auditing tissue and stem cell banks, and responding to industry and research enquiries.

Outcome: You will have a clear understanding of the role, its requirements, and what to expect during the internship.

Step 4: Choose Your Application Method

Select one of the three methods to submit your application. Ensure you follow the specific instructions for your chosen method. You can submit via post to The Director-General, National Department of Health, Private Bag X399, Pretoria 0001. Alternatively, hand-deliver your application to Reception – Brown Application Box, Dr AB Xuma Building, 1112 Voortrekker Road, Pretoria Townlands 351-JR, Pretoria. For email applications, send your application to [email protected], quoting the Reference Number: NDOH 81/2026 in the subject line. For email applications, address it For Attention: Ms M Shitiba.

Outcome: Your application will be sent to the correct department via your chosen channel.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Carefully complete and submit your application using the method chosen in Step 4. Double-check all details before sending. For postal or hand-delivered applications, ensure all documents are securely attached and the address is correct. Consider using registered mail for tracking. For email applications, attach all required documents as PDFs and ensure the reference number is in the subject line. Proofread the email before sending.

Outcome: Your application is officially submitted to the National Department of Health.

Mistakes to Avoid: Submitting after the closing date, failing to include the reference number (especially for email), or sending an incomplete application.

Step 6: Note the Closing Date and Follow Up

Be aware of the application deadline and understand the next steps. All applications must reach the Department by 26 October 2026. For any questions, you can contact M Kgasi at (012) 395 9029. The Department will review applications, and successful candidates will be contacted for further stages. Appointments will consider employment equity, including race, gender, and disability, in line with the Department’s Employment Equity Plan.

Outcome: You will know when to expect a response and who to contact if you have queries. You will also be aware of the employment equity considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions