SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026 (Groenkloof National Park & SANBI Pretoria)

South African graduates who are searching for government internship opportunities in 2026 now have an exciting opportunity to gain valuable work experience through the SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme.

The programme is hosted by South African National Parks in partnership with Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA). Selected graduates will also be placed within divisions connected to the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).

This internship programme provides unemployed graduates with 12 months of structured workplace experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to the environmental and biodiversity sector.

Successful candidates will be placed at Groenkloof National Park Head Office in Pretoria, giving them the opportunity to work within one of South Africa’s leading conservation and environmental management institutions.

Graduates participating in the programme will receive a monthly stipend ranging from R6 335.69 to R9 088.37, depending on their qualification level.

If you recently completed a National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree, this programme could be a powerful stepping stone toward building your career in human resources, occupational health and safety, or organisational development.

Overview of the SANParks Internship Programme 2026

The SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme aims to support youth development and improve employment opportunities for South African graduates by providing practical workplace exposure.

Government internship programmes are designed to help graduates transition from academic studies into the professional workplace.

Interns will work within different divisions where they will:

• Gain hands-on experience in professional environments

• Receive mentorship from experienced professionals

• Contribute to organisational projects and operations

• Build skills that improve employability in both the public and private sectors

The programme is especially beneficial for graduates who have completed studies related to Human Resources, Psychology, Safety Management, and Labour Relations.

Internship Location

All internship placements will take place at the Groenkloof National Park Head Office in Pretoria.

This facility serves as an operational hub for many activities related to the work of South African National Parks.

Some interns will also be placed in departments associated with the South African National Biodiversity Institute, which plays an important role in biodiversity research, conservation, and environmental management in South Africa.

Working within these institutions provides graduates with valuable exposure to conservation, public administration, and organisational management.

Internship Fields and Available Positions

The SANParks internship programme includes several specialised fields where graduates can apply their academic knowledge while developing practical workplace skills.

Below are the available fields and the number of positions available.

Learning and Development – 5 Positions

Required Qualification:

• National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree in:

  • Human Resources Development

  • Training Management

This division focuses on staff development, training programmes, and skills improvement initiatives within the organisation.

Industrial Psychology – 1 Position

Required Qualification:

• Honours Degree in Industrial Psychology

This role supports employee wellness, workplace productivity, and organisational performance.

Performance Management – 2 Positions

Required Qualification:

• National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree in Human Resources Management

Interns will assist in developing systems that evaluate employee performance and organisational efficiency.

Occupational Health and Safety – 2 Positions

Required Qualification:

• National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree in Safety Management

This division ensures compliance with workplace safety regulations and promotes safe working conditions for employees.

Labour Relations – 2 Positions

Required Qualification:

• National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree in Human Resources Management or Labour Relations

Interns will assist with workplace relations, employee matters, and labour policy implementation.

Human Capital Management Administration – 1 Position

Required Qualification:

• National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree in Human Resources Management

This role focuses on administrative support related to payroll, employee benefits, and HR systems.

Human Capital Management – Biodiversity Special Projects – 2 Positions

Required Qualification:

• National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree in Human Resources Management

Interns will support HR operations linked to biodiversity conservation projects.

SANBI Internship Opportunities – 5 Positions

Required Qualification:

• National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree in Human Resources Management

These positions are connected to projects at the South African National Biodiversity Institute.

Minimum Requirements

To qualify for the SANParks Graduate Internship Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a South African citizen

• Must be between 18 and 35 years old

• Must be unemployed at the time of application

• Must have completed a National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree (NQF Level 6, 7, or 8)

• Must have studied at a recognised South African Higher Education Institution

• Must not have previously participated in a government internship programme

• Must not have prior permanent work experience

These requirements ensure that the programme benefits young graduates entering the workforce for the first time.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents when submitting their applications:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Certified copy of South African ID

• Certified copy of Matric certificate

• Certified copies of academic qualifications

• Academic transcripts (academic record)

Applicants must clearly indicate:

• The Park or Workstation where they wish to be placed

• The division or department they are applying for

• Their field of study

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Important Application Notes

Applicants should take note of the following important points:

• Manual applications will not be accepted.

• All appointments are subject to verification and screening processes.

• Candidates may be required to attend interviews and assessments.

• Applicants applying outside their province must arrange their own accommodation and transport.

• Accommodation within the park may be offered depending on availability.

All foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority before applying.

The programme also supports Employment Equity principles, meaning preference may be given to candidates from designated groups.

Internship Stipend

Interns participating in the programme will receive a monthly stipend based on their qualification level.

The stipend ranges from:

R6 335.69 – R9 088.37 per month

This allowance helps cover basic living expenses while interns gain professional experience.

How to Apply

Applicants who meet the requirements should submit their applications online.

Applications must be submitted through the official application link below:

Apply here:
https://forms.office.com/r/j0EbJ47mcN

Applicants should ensure that all required documents are attached before submission.

Enquiries

For further information regarding the internship programme, applicants may contact:

Ms Bongiwe Ndaba
Telephone: 012 426 5041

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is:

06 March 2026

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible to avoid missing the deadline.

Final Thoughts

The SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for graduates to gain professional experience in conservation, human resources, and organisational management.

Working within institutions like South African National Parks and South African National Biodiversity Institute provides graduates with unique exposure to South Africa’s environmental and public sector operations.

If you are a graduate looking for your first professional experience, this internship programme could be the perfect opportunity to develop skills, build networks, and start your career.