The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD) has opened applications for its Internship Programme 2026–2028, offering unemployed graduates a chance to gain structured workplace experience in the public sector.
This internship is designed to bridge the gap between academic study and professional employment. With a 24-month duration and a monthly stipend of R8,174.75, it provides both financial support and valuable career development opportunities.
About the GDARD Internship Programme 2026
The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Internship Programme focuses on developing skilled professionals in agriculture, rural development, and support services.
Interns will be placed in different departments where they will:
- Gain practical work experience
- Participate in departmental projects
- Learn from experienced professionals
- Develop workplace and administrative skills
- Build industry-relevant competencies
The programme is structured to prepare graduates for long-term employment in both government and private sectors.
Internship Duration and Stipend
The programme runs for:
- Duration: 24 months
- Monthly Stipend: R8,174.75
This stipend is intended to support interns with transport, daily expenses, and general living costs during the training period.
Available Internship Opportunities
GDARD offers multiple internship streams based on different qualifications.
Financial Management Internship (2 Posts)
- Reference: FM2026
- Location: Johannesburg Head Office
- Required Qualification:
- Financial Management
- Accounting Science
Rural Development Internship (1 Post)
- Reference: RD2026
- Location: Johannesburg Head Office
- Required Qualification:
- Development Studies
- Related qualifications
Record Management Internship (1 Post)
- Reference: RM2026
- Location: Johannesburg Head Office
- Required Qualification:
- Archives and Records Management
- Library and Information Science
Agro-Processing Internship (1 Post)
- Reference: AP2026
- Location: Johannesburg Head Office
- Required Qualification:
- Food Technology
- Food Science
Agricultural Engineering Internship (1 Post)
- Reference: RTDS 2026
- Location: Johannesburg Head Office
- Required Qualification:
- Agricultural Engineering
Animal Health Internships
Pretoria (2 Posts)
- Reference: AH2026/01
Germiston (2 Posts)
- Reference: AH2026/02
Required Qualification:
- Animal Health
- Related qualification
Land Care Internship (1 Post)
- Reference: EES2026
- Location: Johannesburg Head Office
- Required Qualification:
- Project Management
- Public Management
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be unemployed South African graduates
- Hold a National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree
- Not have previously participated in a public service internship
- Hold qualifications from accredited institutions
Preference may be given to candidates who promote representativity in terms of:
- Race
- Gender
- Disability
Duties and Responsibilities
Selected interns will:
- Work in structured departmental placements
- Assist with daily operations and projects
- Participate in training and development activities
- Gain hands-on experience in public service systems
- Build professional workplace skills
This exposure helps graduates transition into long-term employment opportunities.
How to Apply for GDARD Internships 2026
Applications must be submitted via email using the official instructions.
Email Address:
GDARDInternship@gauteng.gov.za
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Completed Z83 application form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- All documents combined into one PDF file
- Correct reference number in the email subject line
Important Application Rules
- JPEG or image applications will not be accepted
- Certified copies are not required during application
- Only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified documents
- Late applications will not be considered
Enquiries
For questions, contact:
- Ms. Thandiwe Tsutsu
Tel: (011) 240 2586
Selection Process
Applicants should note:
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- If no feedback is received within 3 months after the closing date, the application should be considered unsuccessful
- Additional assessments may be conducted during selection
Final Thoughts
The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Internship Programme 2026–2028 offers graduates a strong opportunity to gain structured experience in the public sector.
With a 24-month duration, a competitive stipend, and placements across agriculture, finance, engineering, and administration, this programme can help unemployed graduates build meaningful careers.
For graduates looking to enter government or agriculture-related fields, this internship provides both practical experience and a stepping stone into long-term employment.