Are you an unemployed South African graduate seeking practical work experience? The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) is offering a 24-month Graduate Internship Programme for the 2026/2027 and 2027/2028 financial years. This programme provides valuable experience in government roles related to mining and petroleum. Applications close on 8 May 2026.
This internship is open to graduates with a relevant Diploma or Degree qualification. Participants will receive a monthly stipend to support them during the programme. It's a great opportunity to build your skills and enhance your employability in the government sector.
Key Facts About the DMPR Internship Programme 2026
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) is offering this Graduate Internship Programme to provide unemployed South African graduates with 24 months of practical work experience.
The programme is available in multiple provinces, including KwaZulu-Natal, North West, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State, and Northern Cape. Specific locations are Pretoria, Braamfontein, Witbank, Polokwane, Welkom, Kimberley, Gqeberha, East London, Cape Town, Klerksdorp, Mafikeng, and Durban.
Opportunities span fields such as Business, Finance, Economics, Investment Promotion, Legal Services, Petroleum Compliance, Mineral Laws Administration, Public Administration, Human Resources, Technical Support, Mine Economics, Geology, Mining Engineering, Environmental Management, Mineral Information Management (GIS), Social and Community Development, and Social Sciences.
Participants will receive a monthly stipend: approximately R7,860.50 for Diploma/Degree/Honours graduates and approximately R9,482.00 for Master’s Degree holders. Please note that participation does not guarantee permanent employment upon completion.
Who Qualifies for the DMPR Graduate Programme?
To be eligible for the DMPR Graduate Internship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be an unemployed South African citizen.
- Hold a relevant Diploma or Degree qualification.
- Must not have participated in any previous government internship programme.
If your qualification requires formal practical or experiential training, attach a formal letter from your university or college. Candidates with foreign qualifications must submit a SAQA evaluation certificate.
How to Apply for the DMPR Internships
- Complete and sign the new Z83 application form.
- Attach a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) with at least three references.
- Do not submit certified copies of qualifications or ID with the initial application; these are only required from shortlisted candidates.
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
All applications should be submitted via the official eRecruitment portal or the DPSA website.
Important Dates and Deadlines
Advertisements for these internships are typically published around April 2026. The closing date for all applications is strictly 8 May 2026.
If you do not hear back from the DMPR within three months after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
This 24-month internship offers a valuable opportunity for unemployed graduates to gain essential work experience within the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. Ensure you meet all requirements and submit your application correctly before the closing date.
The closing date for applications is 8 May 2026. Do not miss this chance to advance your career in the mining and petroleum sector.
Ready to apply? Visit the official DMPR eRecruitment portal or the DPSA website before the closing date.