The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is offering a fantastic opportunity for recent South African graduates! We’re looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our two-year Internship Programme, starting in 2025. This is your chance to gain practical, hands-on experience in the world of higher education, specifically within administrative and legal settings. DHET Internship Programme 2025–2027

This internship is designed to help you develop valuable skills, boost your confidence, and significantly improve your chances of landing a permanent job in the public sector. If you’ve recently earned a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree and are eager to make a real difference, this programme could be the perfect launchpad for your career.

Why This Programme Matters for South African Youth

South Africa continues to face a major challenge when it comes to youth unemployment. Many graduates finish their studies but struggle to enter the job market due to lack of experience. The DHET Internship Programme helps close that gap by offering structured workplace exposure, mentorship, training, and real responsibilities inside the higher education sector.

Internships like this create a pathway for graduates to:

✔ Build a professional network
✔ Gain confidence in a real work environment
✔ Improve employability
✔ Understand government systems and administrative functions
✔ Position themselves for permanent roles

Participating in a government internship is often the stepping stone that employers look for when hiring. Whether you want to pursue a career in legal services, governance, administration, or public management, this programme is a strong foundation.

What’s Inside:

• A Quick Look: Key information at a glance
• Get to Know DHET: Learn about the Department and its mission.
• Internship Opportunities: Details on the available positions and what you’ll need to qualify.
• How to Apply: Simple steps to submit your application.
• In a Nutshell: Why this internship is a great move for your future.
• Got Questions? Answers to frequently asked questions.

Quick Overview:

• Programme Name: DHET Internship Programme 2025-2027
• Duration: 24 months (a solid two years of experience!)
• Who’s Eligible: Unemployed South African graduates with relevant Diplomas or Degrees.
• Positions Available:
  • Legal Services Intern
  • College Council Secretariat Intern (Two openings!)
• Compensation: A stipend will be provided, as per DHET guidelines.
• Application Deadline: Don’t miss out! Submit your application by November 28, 2025, at 2:00 PM.

About the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET):

DHET is the driving force behind post-school education and training in South Africa. We oversee universities, community colleges, TVET colleges, SETAs, and various skills development programmes, all aimed at preparing young people for the working world.

Our key goals include:

• Making higher education and skills training accessible to more people.
• Improving the quality of vocational and training programmes.
• Helping graduates become job-ready through internships and learnerships.
• Ensuring that institutions are well-managed and governed.

This internship is a direct reflection of our commitment to developing capable and confident graduates who are ready to contribute to the public sector.

Understanding the Value of These Positions

The positions offered through the DHET Internship Programme are strategically designed to help graduates enter sectors that require both technical and administrative expertise. Below is a deeper dive into what each opportunity entails:

POSITION 1: Legal Services Intern (Reference Number: 12/2025)

What You’ll Need:

• Matric / NCV Level 4
• A recognised 3-year Diploma in Paralegal Studies, OR
• A 4-year Degree in Law or Legal Studies

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience in legal advisory work, compliance, interpreting policies, and managing legal documents within a government setting.

The Legal Services environment involves tasks such as drafting correspondence, assisting with legal research, organizing case files, and understanding how legislation affects higher education institutions. For graduates aiming to practise law in the future, this internship can be the stepping stone to clerkships, paralegal roles, or compliance officer positions.

POSITION 2: College Council Secretariat Intern (Reference Number: LEPTVET 11/2025) (Two Positions Available!)

What You’ll Need:

• Matric / NCV Level 4
• A recognised 3-year Diploma (NQF Level 6) in one of the following:
  • Public Management
  • Public Administration
  • Office Management
  • Office Administration
  • Office Management and Technology

This internship is perfect for those who want to learn about governance, taking meeting minutes, coordinating administrative tasks, and providing general secretarial support.

Council Secretariat work is central to ensuring that the institution follows proper governance, accountability, and reporting procedures. As an intern in this division, you’ll learn how meetings are structured, how decisions are recorded, how compliance matters are handled, and how documents are managed within a public-sector environment.

Ready to Apply? Here’s How:

Choose one of the following methods to submit your application:

• Email: Send your application to recruitment@leptevtcol.edu.za
• Hand Delivery or Courier: Drop off your application at:
  Lephalale TVET College – Central Office, Corner Nelson Mandela & Ngoako Ramatlhodi Drives, Onverwacht, Lephalale, 0557
• Mail: Send your application to: Private Bag X210, Lephalale, 0555

Important: We cannot accept late applications.

In a Nutshell:

The DHET Internship Programme 2025-2027 is a great stepping stone for recent graduates. You’ll gain valuable experience in a structured public-sector environment, receive guidance from mentors, and develop the skills you need to succeed. If you meet the requirements, apply before the deadline

Extended Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can apply?

Unemployed South African graduates with a relevant Diploma or Degree that matches the internship requirements.

Is the internship paid?

Yes, you’ll receive a stipend according to DHET policy.

How long is the internship?

It’s a 24-month, non-renewable contract.

Can I apply if I have some work experience?

Yes, as long as you’re currently unemployed and not participating in another internship.

Do I need certified copies?

Yes, please include certified documents with your application.

Can I apply for more than one position?

Yes, but you must submit separate applications using the correct reference number.

Do I need a driver’s license?

It is not listed as a requirement, but it may be beneficial for work-related mobility.

Will DHET provide employment after the internship?

There is no automatic placement, but interns often gain a competitive advantage for vacancies in government and education sectors.

How competitive is the programme?

It is highly competitive, so submitting complete documents and meeting requirements is essential.

What documents must I include?

Usually:
✔ A CV
✔ Certified ID copy
✔ Certified qualification copies
✔ Academic transcripts
✔ Application form (if required)

Can foreign nationals apply?

No. Only unemployed South African citizens are eligible.

Will training be provided?

Yes, interns receive on-the-job mentorship and exposure to departmental systems.

Can I submit a late application?

No, late applications are not accepted under any circumstances.

When will shortlisted candidates be contacted?

DHET typically contacts shortlisted applicants only. If you don’t hear anything within 3 months, consider your application unsuccessful.

Need More Information?

Contact Mr. PM Mphethi or Ms. MN Morena at (014) 763 2252.

CLOSING DATE: NOVEMBER 28, 2025 – Don’t miss out!