Introduction: A Major Career Opportunity for Unemployed South African Graduates

The 2026 CATHSSETA and SANParks Internship Program presents a valuable opportunity for unemployed South African graduates to gain structured workplace experience in human resources, organisational development, biodiversity administration, and public sector operations.

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This 12-month internship programme is hosted by South African National Parks (SANParks) in partnership with the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA) and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). Interns will be based at Groenkloof National Park Head Office in Pretoria.

Designed to bridge the gap between academic qualifications and professional employment, the programme equips graduates with practical skills, exposure to real organisational environments, and improved career prospects.

Successful candidates will receive a monthly stipend ranging from R6,335.69 to R9,088.37, depending on their qualification level.

With only 20 positions available and a closing date of 6 March 2026, this programme represents one of the most competitive and impactful internship opportunities in South Africa’s conservation and public administration sectors.

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Programme Overview: Key Details You Need to Know

The SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme focuses on developing workplace readiness among graduates who have completed qualifications but lack formal work experience.

Programme Name: SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026
Host Institutions: SANParks and SANBI
Location: Groenkloof National Park Head Office, Pretoria
Programme Duration: 12 months
Number of Positions: 20
Monthly Stipend: R6,335.69 to R9,088.37
Qualification Levels Required: NQF Level 6, 7, or 8
Age Requirement: 18 to 35 years
Employment Guarantee: None (training-focused programme)
Application Method: Online application only
Application Deadline: 6 March 2026

This internship programme is designed primarily to develop skills in human capital management, organisational support, and biodiversity administration.

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About SANParks and CATHSSETA: Trusted Institutions Supporting Graduate Development

SANParks is responsible for managing South Africa’s national parks and protected conservation areas. It plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity, supporting tourism, and strengthening environmental sustainability.

CATHSSETA is a government-recognized Sector Education and Training Authority tasked with developing skills in tourism, hospitality, conservation, and related industries.

Together, these institutions offer structured internships that meet national skills development goals and improve graduate employability.

The involvement of SANBI further strengthens the programme by providing exposure to biodiversity research and environmental management institutions.

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Internship Fields and Available Positions

The internship programme focuses primarily on human capital management and organisational development functions.

Below is a breakdown of available positions and study fields:

Learning and Development Division

• Human Resource Development and Training Management – 5 positions
• Industrial Psychology – 1 position

Performance Management Division

• Human Resources Management – 2 positions

Occupational Health and Safety Division

• Safety Management – 2 positions

Labour Relations Division

• Human Resources Management / Labour Relations – 2 positions

Human Capital Administration Division

• Benefits and Payroll Administration – 1 position

Biodiversity Special Projects Programme (BSP)

• Human Resources Management – 2 positions

SANBI Placement Opportunities

• Human Resources Management – 5 positions

These placements provide real-world exposure to HR operations, compliance, employee relations, organisational support, and workforce development.

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Monthly Stipend Structure Based on Qualification Level

Interns will receive financial support based on their academic qualification level.

NQF Level 6 (National Diploma):
Monthly stipend starting from approximately R6,335.69

NQF Level 7 (Bachelor’s Degree):
Mid-range stipend based on qualification

NQF Level 8 (Honours Degree):
Maximum stipend up to R9,088.37 per month

This stipend is intended to support basic living expenses during the internship period.

Interns relocating to Pretoria must arrange their own:

• Accommodation
• Transport
• Meals and daily expenses

SANParks may provide accommodation in limited cases, depending on availability.

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Minimum Requirements: Who Can Apply

To be considered for the SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be between 18 and 35 years old
• Must be unemployed
• Must hold a National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree (NQF Level 6–8)
• Qualification must be obtained from a South African public higher education institution
• Must not have previously participated in a public service internship programme
• Must not have formal work experience related to the internship field

Failure to meet any of these requirements will result in disqualification.

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Required Documents: Prepare These Before Applying

Applicants must submit certified copies of the following:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• South African Identity Document
• Matric certificate
• Academic qualification certificates
• Full academic transcript

Important application rule:

Applicants must clearly indicate the Park or Workstation, Division, and Study Field when applying.

Incomplete applications or missing documents will not be considered.

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How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Guide

Follow these steps to apply successfully:

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Ensure all documents are certified and ready.

Step 2: Update Your CV

Include your qualifications, academic achievements, and relevant skills.

Step 3: Confirm Eligibility

Ensure you meet all programme requirements.

Step 4: Apply Online

Complete the official online application form via Microsoft Forms.

Applications submitted via email, hand delivery, or post will not be accepted.

Step 5: Submit Before Deadline

Submit your application before 6 March 2026.

Late applications will not be considered.

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Selection Process: How Candidates Are Evaluated

SANParks follows a structured and transparent selection process.

Stage 1: Document Screening

Applications are reviewed for completeness and eligibility.

Stage 2: Qualification Verification

Academic qualifications and credentials are verified.

Stage 3: Background Checks

Pre-employment screening and validation are conducted.

Stage 4: Interview Assessments

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews.

If you do not receive feedback within 14 days after the closing date, your application should be considered unsuccessful.

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Why This Internship Matters for Graduate Career Development

Graduate unemployment remains a major challenge in South Africa. Many graduates struggle to secure employment due to lack of work experience.

This internship programme addresses that challenge by providing:

• Practical workplace exposure
• Professional skills development
• Public sector experience
• Networking opportunities
• Improved employability

Interns gain valuable experience that strengthens their CV and increases their chances of securing permanent employment.

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Career Opportunities After Completing the Internship

Although permanent employment is not guaranteed, this internship significantly improves career prospects.

Possible career paths include:

• Human Resources Officer
• HR Administrator
• Labour Relations Assistant
• Training and Development Coordinator
• Organisational Development Practitioner
• Performance Management Officer
• Government Administration Officer
• Biodiversity Institution Administrator

Many former interns secure employment in:

• Government departments
• Municipalities
• State-owned enterprises
• Corporate HR departments
• Conservation institutions
• SETA-funded programmes

The experience gained during this internship provides a strong foundation for long-term career growth.

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Expert Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection

Competition for SANParks internships is high. Follow these tips to improve your chances:

Tailor your CV specifically to HR and organisational development roles.

Highlight academic projects related to HR, training, psychology, or management.

Include leadership experience, volunteer work, or student leadership roles.

Demonstrate your interest in conservation and public service.

Ensure all documents are certified and complete.

Apply early to avoid last-minute issues.

Incomplete or rushed applications are a common reason for rejection.

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Living and Working in Pretoria: What Interns Should Expect

The internship is based at Groenkloof National Park in Pretoria, one of South Africa’s key conservation and administrative hubs.

Pretoria offers access to:

• Government institutions
• Professional networking opportunities
• Conservation organisations
• Public transport systems
• Affordable accommodation options

Working at SANParks provides exposure to national-level conservation operations and public sector administration.

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Important Deadline Reminder

Application Deadline: 6 March 2026

Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme a permanent job?

No. This is a 12-month internship designed to provide workplace experience.

Will interns receive a salary?

Interns receive a monthly stipend ranging from R6,335.69 to R9,088.37.

Can I apply if I have completed another internship?

No. Applicants must not have previously participated in a public service internship programme.

Is accommodation provided?

Accommodation may be provided depending on availability. Most interns must arrange their own housing.

Can private college graduates apply?

No. Qualifications must be obtained from a South African public higher education institution.

What happens after completing the internship?

Interns receive valuable experience, references, and improved employment opportunities.

Where is the internship located?

Groenkloof National Park Head Office in Pretoria.

How many positions are available?

There are 20 internship positions available.

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Final Thoughts: Why You Should Apply Immediately

The 2026 CATHSSETA and SANParks Internship Program represents a rare opportunity for South African graduates to gain real workplace experience in one of the country’s most respected conservation and public institutions.

With a structured development programme, monthly stipend, and exposure to real organisational operations, this internship can significantly improve your employability and career prospects.

If you are a qualified graduate struggling to secure employment, this programme can serve as a powerful stepping stone into professional work environments.

Apply before the deadline of 6 March 2026 to secure your chance to build a meaningful and sustainable career.