If you are a recent graduate struggling to find a first role, the Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism Graduate Internship Programme 2026/2027 offers a 24‑month paid placement that can give you the practical experience employers are looking for.
What the internship programme is
The Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT) in Mpumalanga is hiring graduates for a series of 12 internship streams. Each stream lasts 24 months and pays a stipend of R8 174.75 per month. Placements are available at the head office in Mbombela and at district offices in Bushbuckridge, Witbank/eMalahleni and KwaMhlanga.
Who can apply – eligibility
- South African citizen
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Hold a SAQA‑recognised qualification that matches the specific stream (see details below)
- Never previously completed an internship with a national or provincial government department or state institution
- Can provide proof of residence issued by the relevant Local Municipality or Traditional Authority
- Will submit an online application through the Mpumalanga Provincial e‑Recruitment Portal (no paper, email or fax applications accepted)
What you will gain
- Structured, on‑the‑job training for 24 months – longer than most short placements
- Experience in public‑sector processes such as report writing, project participation and deadline management
- Development of professional skills: communication, teamwork, problem solving and use of sector‑specific tools
- A solid work history that can strengthen future applications for permanent roles in both the public and private sectors
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Identify the stream that matches your qualification. Do not apply for a field you are not formally trained in. For example, an ICT graduate should target the ICT stream, while a Law graduate should look at the Business Regulations or Consumer Protection streams.
- Note the reference number. Each vacancy has a unique code (e.g., Communication = DEDT 2026/27/01). You will need this when you submit your application.
- Create a profile on the e‑Recruitment portal. Register at https://erecruitment.mpg.gov.za/ and fill in your personal details.
- Prepare an up‑to‑date CV. Include:
- Your full name, contact details and ID number
- Exact qualification (title, institution, year of completion)
- Three contactable references (name, position, phone, email)
Place the qualification on the first page – it is the primary eligibility criterion.
- Gather supporting documents. You will need:
- Proof of residence (municipal or traditional authority certificate)
- Scanned copy of your ID (only if the portal asks for it now)
- Certified copies of qualifications – required only if you are shortlisted
- Upload all files and submit before the deadline. The closing date is 28 August 2026 at 16:00. Submit early to avoid last‑minute glitches.
Internship streams and qualification requirements
Communication (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/01) – Head Office, Mbombela
SAQA‑recognised 3‑year diploma or degree in Communication, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations or Media Studies.
Financial Management (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/02) – Head Office, Mbombela
SAQA‑recognised 3‑year diploma or degree in Accounting, Financial Management, Financial Accounting or Cost Management.
Internal Audit (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/03) – Head Office, Mbombela
SAQA‑recognised qualification such as Diploma in Internal Audit, Diploma in Auditing, BCom Auditing or BAccSc (Internal Auditing).
Information and Communication Technology (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/04) – Head Office, Mbombela
SAQA‑recognised 3‑year diploma or degree in ICT.
Enterprise Development (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/05) – Ehlanzeni District, Bushbuckridge
SAQA‑recognised 3‑year diploma or degree in Business Management or Economics.
Regional Economic Development Programme (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/06) – Nkangala District, Witbank
SAQA‑recognised 3‑year diploma or degree in Economics.
Trade and Investment Promotion – Mbombela (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/07) – Ehlanzeni District, Mbombela
SAQA‑recognised 3‑year diploma or degree in Business Management or Economics.
Trade and Investment Promotion – KwaMhlanga (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/08) – Nkangala District, KwaMhlanga
SAQA‑recognised 3‑year diploma or degree in Economics.
Business Regulations (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/09) – Ehlanzeni District, Mbombela
SAQA‑recognised LLB.
Consumer Protection (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/10) – Nkangala District, KwaMhlanga
SAQA‑recognised LLB.
Economic Planning (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/11) – Head Office, Mbombela
SAQA‑recognised 3‑year diploma or degree in Economics.
Tourism (Reference: DEDT 2026/27/12) – Ehlanzeni District, Mbombela
SAQA‑recognised 3‑year diploma or degree in Tourism Management or Tourism Development.
Tips to improve your chances
- Match your qualification exactly to the stream before you start the application.
- Double‑check the reference number; using the wrong one will send your application to the wrong vacancy.
- Upload a clear, colour‑scanned proof of residence – the portal will reject blurry files.
- Ensure all three references can be reached; a missed call can lead to disqualification.
- Apply early. System traffic spikes close to the deadline and can cause time‑outs.
- Never claim a qualification or experience you do not have; verification is part of the short‑listing process.
- Declare any previous government internship – failure to do so can result in immediate termination.
Next steps
Take a moment now to verify which stream matches your diploma or degree. Register on the e‑Recruitment portal, upload a clean CV and the required proof of residence, and hit submit well before 16:00 on 28 August 2026. Even if this programme does not lead to a permanent job, the 24 months of structured experience will make you a stronger candidate for future roles in the public sector, private companies, or NGOs.
Frequently asked questions
When does the application close?
28 August 2026 at 16:00. Late submissions are not considered.
How long does the internship last?
24 months.
What is the monthly stipend?
R8 174.75.
Can I apply with only a Matric certificate?
No. Each stream requires a tertiary qualification (diploma, degree or LLB) as specified.
Do I need to be unemployed?
Yes. Only unemployed South African citizens may apply.
What if I have already done a government internship?
You are not eligible. The advert explicitly bars applicants who have previously completed a government internship.
Is work experience required?
General work experience is not listed as a requirement, but you must meet the qualification and other eligibility criteria.
Where are the placements located?
Head Office in Mbombela and district offices in Bushbuckridge, Witbank/eMalahleni and KwaMhlanga.
Do I need to upload certified copies of my documents?
Only shortlisted candidates will be asked to submit certified copies. Follow the portal’s instructions for any required uploads.
Do I have to provide proof of residence?
Yes. A municipal or traditional authority certificate is mandatory.
Will I be notified if I am not shortlisted?
No. Only shortlisted candidates will receive communication. If you hear nothing within three months of the closing date, assume you were not selected.
Does completing the internship guarantee a permanent government job?
No. The programme provides experience; a permanent appointment is not promised.
