Apply for the DPME Internship Programme 2026–2028. Open to South African graduates with Public Administration qualifications. Stipend R7 860.50, 24-month contract, based in Pretoria. Deadline: 12 December 2025.
The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) has opened applications for its Public Sector Monitoring and Capacity Development Internship Programme for 2026 to 2028. This opportunity is designed for young South African graduates who want to grow their careers in public administration, policy, governance and service delivery improvement.
If you’re a graduate ready to step into meaningful government work, this internship offers two years of structured development, practical exposure and hands-on experience within one of the most influential public sector departments in the country.
The programme comes with a competitive stipend, professional mentorship and the rare chance to contribute to national service delivery performance and evidence-based government monitoring systems.
Closing Date: 12 December 2025 at 16:30
About the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation
The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation is responsible for strengthening government’s ability to plan, implement, monitor and evaluate its programmes effectively. Its work ensures that:
- Government services reach communities as intended
- Public programmes are monitored for impact and performance
- National priorities are reviewed through research and evaluation
- Evidence-based insights guide Ministers and departments
- Service delivery challenges are identified and corrected
As an intern in this environment, you join a team that directly influences how government functions and how public programmes improve the lives of citizens.
This is the type of opportunity that shapes future public administrators, policy experts, programme managers, monitoring officers and governance specialists.
What This Internship Offers
Real Work Exposure in Government
Interns assist in monitoring government performance, reviewing service delivery processes and supporting national programme evaluations.
Experience in Policy and Evidence-Based Planning
You will learn how government uses research, data, and evidence to guide decision-making and strengthen accountability across departments.
Development of Core Administrative Skills
The programme helps you gain expertise in planning, performance tracking, reporting, coordination and stakeholder management.
A Competitive Monthly Stipend
Interns receive R7 860.50 per month, allowing them to focus fully on training and development during the 24-month programme.
A Two-Year Structured Training Journey
Unlike short placements, this internship provides two full years of continuous learning, giving you a strong career foundation within the public service.
This is one of the most valuable pathways for graduates who want to build long-term public administration careers.
Internship Overview
- Programme: DPME Internship Programme 2026–2028
- Post: Public Sector Monitoring and Capacity Development Internship
- Reference Number: DPME/2025/05
- Stipend: R7 860.50 per month
- Location: Pretoria
- Duration: 24 months
- Eligibility: South African graduates
- Study Field: Public Administration (SAQA-recognised)
Requirements
To qualify for this internship, applicants must have:
A National Diploma or Degree in Public Administration
This may include qualifications in:
- Public Administration
- Public Management
- Public Governance
- Public Sector Management
- Public Leadership
Additional Requirements
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be an unemployed graduate or a student requiring workplace training
- Must not have previously participated in an internship within the same department
- Must have strong communication skills and a willingness to learn
This internship is specifically built for Public Administration graduates seeking real workplace exposure.
How to Apply
Applicants may submit their documents by post, hand delivery or email.
Postal Applications
Address your application to:
The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation
Private Bag X944
Pretoria
0028
Hand-Delivered Applications
Submit your application to:
330 Grosvenor Street
Hatfield
Pretoria
0028
(Quote the reference number on your application)
Email Applications
Send your application to: Recruitmentintern05@dpme.gov.za
Subject Line: Ref No: DPME/2025/05
Documents to Include
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Academic transcripts
- Cover letter indicating the post and reference number
- Proof of address if required
- Any additional supporting documents
Tip: When emailing, combine all documents into a single PDF.
Conclusion
The DPME Internship Programme 2026–2028 presents a remarkable opportunity for graduates who want to build their careers and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s public service. With structured training, practical experience and strong administrative exposure, this programme equips you with the skills needed to grow into a capable public servant. If you studied Public Administration or a related field, this could be your breakthrough into a professional and impactful career path.
