The Department of Cooperative Governance (CoGTA) is offering the Graduate Internship Programme for 2026–2028, with 21 internship positions across multiple fields. This 24-month programme is designed to provide young South African graduates with practical experience in public service, giving them the skills, knowledge, and exposure needed to pursue a career in governance, administration, and strategic support.
This programme is ideal for beginners, recent graduates, and unemployed youth seeking hands-on experience in government operations.
Programme Overview
- Programme Name: Cooperative Governance Graduate Internship Programme
- Number of Posts: 21
- Duration: 24 months
- Monthly Stipend: R7,860.39
- Location: Pretoria, South Africa
- Closing Date: 10 October 2025
The programme equips interns with practical experience in corporate communication, human resource management, IT, legal services, finance, internal audit, disaster risk reduction, policy support, and local government operations.
Available Internship Positions
The 21 internship posts include:
- Corporate Branding and Communication – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Graphic Design, Marketing, or Communication
- Human Capital Management – Diploma/Bachelor’s in HR, Industrial Psychology, or Public Administration
- Information Technology – Diploma/Bachelor’s in IT, Computer Science, or Informatics
- Legal Services – LLB Degree
- Facilities and Security Management – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Security Management, Social Sciences, plus a driver’s license
- Community Work Programme (CWP) – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Public Administration or Management
- CWP Partnerships, Training, and Special Projects – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Business Management or Project Management
- CWP Financial Coordination – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Financial Management or Accounting
- Supply Chain Management – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Logistics or Supply Chain
- Internal Control – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Accounting
- Disaster Risk Reduction and Capacity Development – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Disaster Management
- Disaster Preparedness, Response, and Recovery Coordination – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Disaster Management
- Strategic and Executive Support – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Public Administration or Management
- Internal Audit and Risk Management – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Internal Audit or Risk Management
15–21. Various Local Government Operations, Policy, and Knowledge Management Roles – Diploma/Bachelor’s in Public Administration, Development Studies, or related fields
Each position has a dedicated email contact for application queries, listed on the official application page.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Visit the Official Application Page: Access the application form and full programme details here: Cooperative Governance Graduate Internship Programme 2026–2028
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents: Gather your South African ID, certified academic qualifications, CV, motivational letter, and proof of residence
Step 3: Complete the Application Form: Accurately fill in all personal, academic, and contact details
Step 4: Submit Your Application: Email your completed application form and supporting documents to the designated email address for your chosen internship position (details available on the official page)
Step 5: Confirmation and Follow-Up: After submission, you will receive confirmation acknowledging receipt. Monitor your email for updates regarding shortlisting, interviews, or further instructions
Note: Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Benefits of the Programme
Participants in this programme gain: