Finding that first job after graduation is tough, especially when employers want experience you don’t yet have. The Free State Office of the Premier is opening a 24‑month Graduate Internship Programme that can give you the workplace exposure you need right now.
What the programme offers
The Free State Office of the Premier will run a structured government internship for two years. It is aimed at unemployed graduates who live in Bloemfontein and want to start a career in government, communications, ICT, or related fields.
Who can apply
- South African citizen
- Unemployed graduate residing in Bloemfontein
- Holder of a relevant qualification for the chosen directorate
- Never taken part in any other internship programme
- Willing to attend an interview and pass all verification checks
Available placement areas
Communication (8 posts)
Relevant qualifications: National Diploma in Graphic Design, Diploma in Marketing, Media Studies, Photography, Digital Marketing.
Typical duties: government communication, public awareness campaigns, graphic design, content creation, social‑media support, photography and multimedia.
Corporate Reform (10 posts)
Required qualification: National Diploma or Diploma in Information Technology.
Typical duties: technical support, information systems, digital transformation, ICT services, network administration, software support, data management.
Intergovernmental Relations (2 posts)
Relevant qualifications: International Relations, Diplomatic Studies, Political Studies, Communication, Public Relations, Hospitality, Events Management.
Typical duties: stakeholder engagement, government partnerships, protocol services, public participation, event coordination, strategic communication.
What you will gain
The 24‑month placement will help you develop:
- Professional communication and writing
- Administrative and policy knowledge
- Computer and ICT skills
- Teamwork and time‑management
- Problem‑solving and project coordination
- Public‑service ethics
These skills are valuable in both the public and private sectors.
How to apply – step by step
- Download and complete the latest New Z83 Form.
- Prepare a clear, up‑to‑date CV.
- Gather certified copies of:
- Senior Certificate (Matric)
- ID document
- Academic transcript(s)
- Relevant qualification(s)
- Submit the completed Z83 form together with all certified documents to the Free State Training & Development Institute, 124 Nelson Mandela Drive, Brahman Building, 2nd Floor, Bloemfontein.
- Make sure your application reaches the address before 04 August 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Fill every section of the Z83 form accurately – missing information can lead to rejection.
- Proof‑read your CV and make sure it highlights the qualification that matches the vacancy.
- Attach ONLY certified copies of the required documents.
- Double‑check that you have not taken part in any previous internship.
- Submit early – late applications are unlikely to be accepted.
- Keep copies of everything you send for your records.
Selection process
The department will screen applications, verify documents, shortlist candidates, conduct interviews, and carry out security checks. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. If you do not hear back within three months after the closing date, you have not been successful.
Possible career pathways after the internship
Having completed a government internship can strengthen applications for:
- Other government graduate programmes
- Permanent civil service positions
- Municipal or state‑owned enterprises
- Corporate graduate schemes
- NGO and consultancy roles
- Communications, marketing and PR agencies
- Information‑technology jobs in both public and private sectors
While a permanent job is not guaranteed, the experience you gain will make you more competitive.
Next steps
If your qualifications match one of the listed fields and you meet the eligibility criteria, start gathering your documents now. Complete the Z83 form, certify everything, and send your application well before the 4 August 2026 deadline. This internship could be the first solid step toward a lasting career.
