Right now is a good time to start your career, and South African National Parks is offering a 24‑month internship that could give you that first real work experience.
What the internship involves
SANParks will take unemployed graduates into its Groenkloof head office for a two‑year placement. The role is paid with a stipend of R6 335,69 per month. The programme does not promise a permanent job after it ends.
Who can apply
You must meet all of the following:
- South African citizen, aged 18–35
- Currently unemployed and have never been formally employed
- Never completed an internship, learnership or placement
- Hold a National Diploma or bachelor’s degree (NQF Level 6) in one of these areas: Law, Corporate Governance, Public Administration or Business Administration
- Your qualification must be from a recognised South African higher‑education institution (foreign qualifications need SAQA evaluation)
- Be able to commit to the full 24 months
What you will gain
The placement will let you turn theory into practice. You can expect to work on tasks such as:
- Corporate administration and record keeping
- Governance and policy support
- Legal research and documentation
- Report writing and meeting coordination
- Stakeholder communication and compliance checks
These activities will build skills that employers look for, like professional writing, time management, teamwork and confidentiality.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents:
- Updated curriculum vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate
- Certified copies of your diploma or degree
- Full academic transcript or record
- Any additional paperwork asked for in the online form
- Make sure every copy is certified. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
- Go to the official SANParks online internship application form.
- Enter the vacancy reference INTERN BS‑01 where requested.
- Upload all certified documents and submit before Wednesday, 12 August 2026.
- Save the confirmation screen or email as proof of submission.
Tips to improve your chances
- Write a CV that matches the internship. Mention your qualification, field of study, the fact you are an unemployed graduate, and your availability for 24 months.
- Include academic projects, volunteer work, moot‑court participation or any research you have done – this shows relevant experience even without paid work.
- Highlight computer, research and communication skills, and any interest you have in public‑sector governance or conservation.
- Proof‑read every document. A single missing or uncertified file can disqualify you.
- Keep your phone number and email up to date. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for assessments or interviews.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria, start collecting your certified paperwork today. Submit a strong, tailored CV and send your application before the 12 August deadline. Even though the internship does not guarantee a permanent role, the two‑year experience will strengthen your résumé and give you valuable references for future jobs.