Apply Today: 2026 SANParks & CATHSSETA Internship Programme – 20 Spots for Emerging Talent
SANParks is looking for suitable young people to apply for their CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026. The closing date for applications is 06 March 2026.
If you’re a fresh graduate with a National Diploma, Bachelor’s, or Honours degree and you’re still hunting for real‑world experience, this 12‑month internship could be your next big step. You’ll be based at the Groenkloof National Park Head Office in Pretoria, getting hands‑on exposure inside the South African National Parks (SANParks) and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).
What the internship looks like day‑to‑day
- Work in HR, organisational support, or biodiversity projects.
- Attend training sessions, help manage staff records, and support safety compliance.
- Shadow experienced professionals and pick up skills that employers love.
Why it matters for beginners, grads and youth
- You earn a monthly stipend that can cover your living costs.
- You learn the inner workings of a public‑sector organisation.
- You build a portfolio that can land you future roles in HR, performance management, or conservation agencies.
Quick facts
- Programme: SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026
- Host: SANParks & SANBI
- Location: Groenkloof National Park, Pretoria
- Duration: 12 months
- Stipend: R6 335.69 – R9 088.37 per month (depends on qualification level)
- Qualifications: NQF Level 6, 7 or 8 (National Diploma, Bachelor’s or Honours) from a public SA institution
- Age: 18‑35 years
- Closing date: 06 March 2026
- Application: Online only
Internship fields & open spots
| Division | Roles | Spots |
|---|---|---|
| Learning and Development | Human Resources Development / Training Management | 5 |
| Industrial Psychology (Honours) | 1 | |
| Performance Management | Human Resources Management | 2 |
| Occupational Health & Safety | Safety Management | 2 |
| Labour Relations | HR Management / Labour Relations | 2 |
| Human Capital Management Administration | Payroll & Benefits | 1 |
| Biodiversity Special Projects (BSP) | HR Management | 2 |
| SANBI Placement | HR Management | 5 |
Minimum requirements – you must tick all of these
- Be an unemployed graduate aged 18‑35.
- Hold a South African citizenship.
- Have a National Diploma, Bachelor’s or Honours degree (NQF 6‑8) from a public SA higher‑education institution.
- You haven’t done a public‑service internship before.
- You don’t already have a related job in a public‑service setting.
Documents you need (certified copies)
- Updated CV
- South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Academic qualifications and transcripts
Tip: Make sure to write the Park/Workstation, Division, and Field of Study you’re applying for. Missing any document or detail will mean your application is tossed out.
Stipend breakdown
- NQF 6 (National Diploma): lowest end of the range.
- NQF 7 (Bachelor’s): mid‑range.
- NQF 8 (Honours): up to R9 088.37 per month.
This money is meant to help cover your rent, food and other day‑to‑day expenses while you learn.
Need to move to Pretoria?
- SANParks might offer accommodation inside a park if there is space.
- If not, you’ll need to arrange your own housing.
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Get your documents ready – make sure they’re certified and up to date.
- Polish your CV – highlight any HR, training, or leadership experience.
- Check eligibility – do a quick scan of the checklist above.
- Fill out the online form – click Apply right here before it closes.
- Submit – remember, no paper or email applications will be accepted.
After you hit submit, your application enters several verification stages: document screening, qualification checks, pre‑employment checks, and finally an interview.
If you haven’t heard back within 14 days after the closing date, you can assume the application was not successful.
How to stand out
- Tailor your CV to highlight HR or organisational skills.
- Mention any projects or volunteer roles that show you can manage people or training.
- Show a genuine interest in conservation or public service.
- Apply early – the last slot often goes to the first in line.
What comes next
The internship itself doesn’t guarantee a permanent job, but it can open doors.
After 12 months you may move into roles such as:
- HR Officer
- Training Coordinator
- Labour Relations Assistant
- HR Administrator
- Organisational Development Practitioner
- Performance Management Officer
- Government or municipal admin roles
- Positions in environmental institutions
Many past interns have landed spots in government departments, municipalities, corporate HR, and other SETA programmes.
FAQ
Can I apply if I’ve already done an internship? – No, you must not have done a public‑service internship before.
Will I get accommodation? – Only if there is availability; most of us will need to find our own place.
Do private college graduates qualify? – No, your qualification must come from a public SA university.
What happens after the internship ends? – You’ll gain experience and a reference, but employment isn’t guaranteed.
CLOSING DATE: 06 March 2026
Need help? Visit the SANParks homepage for more information on future opportunities.
