If you have completed a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) and have never participated in a graduate internship before, this could be your opportunity to launch your career in the public sector.
Internship Overview
Programme
UIF Graduate Internship Programme
Employer
Department of Employment and Labour
Location
Pretoria, South Africa
Programme Duration
24 Months
Closing Date
7 August 2026
Minimum Qualification
National Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6/7)
Experience Required
None
Application Method
Apply Online
About the UIF Graduate Internship Programme
The Department of Employment and Labour is recruiting graduates to participate in the UIF Graduate Internship Programme for the 2027/2028 financial year.
The programme is designed to help unemployed graduates obtain practical workplace experience in their respective fields of study while developing professional skills within government.
Applicants who have previously participated in any internship programme in either the public or private sector are not eligible.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must:
Be South African citizens.
Be unemployed.
Hold a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7) in the relevant field.
Never have participated in any internship programme.
Meet the qualification requirements for the specific internship they are applying for.
Available Internship Opportunities
The UIF is offering internship opportunities across several professional disciplines.
Administration and Office Support
These opportunities are suitable for graduates in:
Office Administration
Office Management
Secretariat Studies
Management Assistant
Available positions include:
Office of the UIF Commissioner
Office of the Chief Information Officer
Office of the Director
Successful interns will provide administrative support, manage diaries, coordinate meetings and assist with office operations.
Internal Audit, Risk and Compliance
Graduates with qualifications in:
Internal Auditing
Accounting
Auditing
Risk Management
Corporate Governance
Compliance
Public Administration
may apply for internships in:
Internal Audit
Risk Management
Audit Governance
Compliance Support
Corporate Governance
Interns will assist with audit coordination, risk assessments, policy compliance and governance activities.
Information Technology (IT)
The UIF is recruiting graduates in:
Information Technology
Computer Science
Information Systems
Informatics
Computer Systems Engineering
Project Management
Available IT internship streams include:
IT Projects
IT Business Support
IT Infrastructure Support
IT Business Applications
ICT Risk and Security
Business Operations Statistics
Operational Systems Support
Interns will gain experience in desktop support, networks, systems implementation, cybersecurity, project coordination and business applications.
Applications must be submitted with a Z83 form (Download pdf / Editable Z83 form) and must be accompanied by recently updated CV. Please indicate the Reference number, Position and Area/Centre on your application form.
Only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of an ID documents, qualifications, and recent academic transcripts / records.
Department: Department of Employment and Labour
Position name: Use position applied for
Reference No: Use the reference of the position applied for
Select the internship that matches your qualification.
Quote the correct reference number.
Complete the application form.
Upload all required supporting documents.
Submit your application before 7 August 2026.
Application Closing Date
Closing Date:7 August 2026
Late or incomplete applications are unlikely to be considered. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid missing the deadline.
Conclusion
The Department of Employment and Labour UIF Graduate Internship Programme 2027 offers unemployed South African graduates an excellent opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience while developing professional skills within one of the country’s key public institutions. With internship opportunities available across fields such as Information Technology, Human Resources, Finance, Legal Services, Communications, Supply Chain, Risk Management, Occupational Health and Safety, and many more, graduates from a wide range of academic backgrounds have the chance to build practical experience in their chosen careers.
Candidates who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to prepare their application documents carefully, ensure they apply for the internship that matches their qualification, and submit their applications before the 7 August 2026 closing date. Although participation in the programme does not guarantee permanent employment, it provides valuable exposure, professional development, and a strong foundation for future career opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
