Nkomazi Local Municipality, in partnership with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), has officially opened applications for Youth Graduate Internships for 2026 under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
Location: Four regions within Nkomazi Local Municipality
Closing Date: 04 February 2026 at 16h00
This opportunity is specifically designed to support unemployed youth, including those classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), by providing income, work exposure, and a pathway into the environmental and biodiversity sector.
Quick Overview of the EPWP Youth Internship Programme
- Programme Name: Nkomazi Local Municipality & DFFE Youth Graduate Internships (EPWP)
- Programme Type: Youth empowerment and work exposure (EPWP initiative)
- Target Group: Unemployed youth aged 18–35
- Disability Friendly: Yes – applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Daily Stipend Options
- Matric (Grade 12): R165.00 per day
- Diploma/Degree (Environmental-related): R271.04 per day
Available Internship Opportunities
The advert provides two application categories, allowing both matriculants and graduates to participate.
Matric / Grade 12 Opportunity (40 Positions)
This category is open to applicants who have completed Grade 12, even if they do not hold a tertiary qualification.
- Number of Positions: 40
- Minimum Stipend: R165.00 per day
Suitable For
- School leavers
- Unemployed youth seeking income and experience
- Candidates building a CV for future studies or employment
No prior work experience is required, making this a strong entry-level opportunity.
Diploma / Degree Internship (20 Positions)
This category targets youth with environmental-related qualifications.
- Number of Positions: 20
- Minimum Stipend: R271.04 per day
Relevant Fields Include
- Environmental Sciences
- Agriculture
- Development Studies
- Any other environmental-related qualification
Suitable For
- Graduates requiring practical exposure
- Underemployed young professionals
- Candidates aiming for careers in biodiversity or environmental management
Internship Location and Placement
Interns will be placed within the four regions of Nkomazi Local Municipality. Applicants residing in the municipal area may have an advantage, as placements are community-based and aligned with local environmental projects.
Minimum Requirements (Who Qualifies)
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Aged between 18 and 35 years
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Relevant qualification for the category applied for
- Innovative, dynamic, and creative
- Strong interest in environmental or biodiversity work
- Applicants living with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Meeting the age and qualification requirements is sufficient to apply. No prior experience is required.
Documents to Prepare Before Applying
Municipal applications require a complete and professional submission.
Mandatory Documents
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Certified copy of Diploma/Degree (if applicable)
Recommended Supporting Documents
- Academic transcript
- Proof of residence
- Short motivational letter (one page)
- Proof of volunteer or community work (if available)
Ensure documents are clear, certified, and arranged in a logical order.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted as follows:
Address Applications To:
Director: Corporate Services
Private Bag X101
Malalane
1320
Application Tips
- Compile all documents into one submission
- Ensure certifications are valid and readable
- Submit early to avoid last-day delays
Closing Date and Time:
04 February 2026 at 16h00
Applications submitted after this time may not be considered.
Why This EPWP Internship Matters
This programme offers:
- Income support for unemployed youth
- Real workplace exposure
- Entry into the environmental and biodiversity sector
- A stepping stone to further internships, learnerships, or employment
For young people seeking a genuine opportunity to gain experience while earning, this EPWP internship is one of the most accessible and impactful youth programmes for 2026.