The Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) is inviting qualified South African graduates to apply for its Internship Programme for 2025/2027. This 24-month opportunity offers hands-on experience and professional development within one of the province’s key government departments.
Closing Date: 24 October 2025 at 16:00
Duration: 24 months
Stipend: R7 860.38 per month
Location: Various service centres across the Free State
About the DESTEA Internship Programme
The DESTEA Internship Programme is designed to give young, unemployed graduates the opportunity to gain valuable work exposure in public service. The initiative forms part of the department’s broader commitment to empowering youth, developing future leaders, and enhancing the employability of graduates in the province.
Participants will be placed at different DESTEA Service Centres throughout the Free State, where they will work closely with experienced professionals in the field of Environmental Health and related areas.
Internship Details
Programme Title:
Internship Programme / In-Service Training for 2025/2027
Contract Duration:
24 months
Monthly Stipend:
R7 860.38 per month for graduate interns
Placement Centres:
- Fezile Dabi Service Centre (Parys)
- Lejweleputswa Service Centre (Welkom)
- Mangaung Service Centre (Thaba Nchu)
- Thabo Mofutsanyane Service Centre (Phuthaditjhaba)
Available Internship Posts
Post 1: Environmental Health Inspector Internship
Reference No: Destea/EH/02 (02 Posts)
Requirements:
- NQF Level 6 qualification in Environmental Health, Public Health, Occupational Health & Safety, or Food and Safety Management
Post 2: Environmental Health Inspector Internship
Reference No: Destea/EH/03 (02 Posts)
Requirements:
- NQF Level 6 qualification in Environmental Health, Public Health, Occupational Health & Safety, or Food and Safety Management
Post 3: Environmental Health Inspector Internship
Reference No: Destea/EH/04 (02 Posts)
Requirements:
- NQF Level 6 qualification in Environmental Health, Public Health, Occupational Health & Safety, or Food and Safety Management
Post 4: Environmental Health Inspector Internship
Reference No: DESTEA/EH/05 (02 Posts)
Requirements:
- NQF Level 6 qualification in Environmental Health, Public Health, Occupational Health & Safety, or Food and Safety Management
How to Apply
Interested candidates can submit their applications through email or post to the relevant DESTEA District Service Centre.
Email Applications:
📧 Send applications to: internsrecruit@destea.gov.za
Postal / Hand Delivery Options:
- Fezile Dabi Service Centre:
Boitumelo Mall, Shop No. 107, 39890 c/o Nkoane & Ndaki Road, Welkom, 9463 - Lejweleputswa Service Centre:
Mampoi Street, Public Works Building, DESTEA, L12 Block - Mangaung Service Centre:
Office 205, Ratlou Complex, Thaba Nchu, 9780 - Thabo Mofutsanyane Service Centre:
No. 73 c/o Phillips Sanders & Schillbach Street, Parys, 9585
📎 Note: Attach all required documents, including your CV, certified copies of qualifications, and a completed Z83 form. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Enquiries
For more information or assistance, applicants can contact:
- Ms. Nnana Lentsa: 082 443 5513
- Ms. Tshidi Maleka: 066 051 1279
- Ms. Rosemary Booi: 082 454 0131
- Ms. Selloane Ramabolu: 072 635 3674
Why You Should Apply
This Free State DESTEA Internship Programme 2025/2027 is an excellent opportunity for graduates to gain real-world exposure in environmental health, public safety, and related sectors. By joining the programme, participants can:
- Build a strong foundation for a career in the public sector
- Develop essential technical and professional skills
- Gain practical experience aligned with their studies
- Contribute to environmental and community development in the Free State
Conclusion
The DESTEA Internship Programme 2025/2027 offers young South Africans a rare opportunity to grow within a supportive and structured government environment. If you hold an NQF Level 6 qualification in Environmental Health, Public Health, or related fields, this internship could be the perfect stepping stone to a rewarding career.
Make sure to submit your application before 24 October 2025 at 16:00 and take the next step toward your professional journey with the Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs.