The Nkomazi Municipality EPWP Youth Internships 2026 provide paid work exposure for unemployed youth under the Expanded Public Works Programme, offering entry-level and graduate opportunities within environmental and biodiversity projects.
Programme Overview
Nkomazi Local Municipality, in partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, has opened applications for Youth Graduate Internships for 2026 under the Expanded Public Works Programme.
This initiative is designed to support unemployed youth, including those classified as NEET, by providing income support and structured work exposure within community-based environmental and biodiversity projects. The programme prioritises skills development, employability, and access to opportunities for young people within the Nkomazi municipal area.
Internships are offered across four regions within the municipality and are aligned with public environmental programmes implemented at local level.
Available Internship Categories
The programme provides two participation streams to accommodate both school leavers and graduates.
Matric / Grade 12 Internship
This stream is open to applicants who have completed Grade 12 and do not necessarily hold a tertiary qualification.
- Number of positions: 40
- Daily stipend: R165.00
This category is suitable for:
- School leavers seeking income and workplace exposure
- Unemployed youth building experience for future study or employment
- First-time entrants into public works or environmental programmes
No prior work experience is required.
Diploma / Degree Internship
This stream is aimed at youth with environmental-related tertiary qualifications.
- Number of positions: 20
- Daily stipend: R271.04
Relevant fields include:
- Environmental Sciences
- Agriculture
- Development Studies
- Other environmental or biodiversity-related qualifications
This category is suitable for graduates seeking practical exposure or underemployed youth aiming to enter environmental management and conservation-related careers.
Who Qualifies
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- South African citizen
- Aged between 18 and 35 years
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Appropriate qualification for the category applied for
- Strong interest in environmental, conservation, or biodiversity work
- Innovative, dynamic, and willing to participate in community-based projects
Applicants living with disabilities are encouraged to apply. No previous work experience is required.
Internship Placement
Interns will be placed within the four regions of Nkomazi Local Municipality. Placements are community-focused and aligned with local environmental priorities. Applicants residing within the municipal area may have an advantage, as projects are implemented locally.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit a complete application with the following documents.
Mandatory Documents
- Updated Curriculum Vitae
- Certified copy of South African identity document
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Certified copy of Diploma or Degree (if applicable)
Recommended Supporting Documents
- Academic transcript
- Proof of residence
- Short motivational letter
- Proof of volunteer or community work, if available
All documents should be clearly certified, legible, and arranged in a logical order.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted to the municipal offices using the official submission channel indicated by the municipality.
Applications should be addressed to:
Director: Corporate Services
Private Bag X101
Malalane
1320
Applicants are encouraged to compile all documents carefully and submit well before the deadline to avoid disqualification due to administrative errors.
Why This EPWP Internship Matters
This programme offers:
- Income support for unemployed youth
- Practical workplace exposure within public environmental projects
- Entry-level and graduate access to the environmental and biodiversity sector
- A pathway toward further internships, learnerships, or employment
Conclusion
The Nkomazi Municipality EPWP Youth Internships 2026 provide a meaningful opportunity for young people to gain work experience while contributing to environmental and community development initiatives. Through structured placement and daily stipends, the programme supports both school leavers and graduates seeking a practical starting point in the public and environmental sectors.
For unemployed youth looking for accessible work exposure with real community impact, this EPWP initiative offers a valuable stepping stone toward long-term employability and skills development.
