Apply for the SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026 at Groenkloof National Park and SANBI Pretoria. Open to unemployed graduates (NQF 6–8). Stipend up to R9 088 per month. Closing 06 March 2026.

If you’re a recent graduate looking for structured workplace experience in the public sector, the SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026 offers a valuable 12-month opportunity based in Pretoria.

This internship is hosted by South African National Parks in partnership with South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), and placements will be at Groenkloof National Park (Head Office) and SANBI in Pretoria.

Let’s break down the full details.

Programme Overview

• Programme: SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme
• Location: Groenkloof National Park (Head Office), Pretoria & SANBI Pretoria
• Duration: 12 months
• Stipend: R6 335.69 – R9 088.37 per month (depending on NQF level)
• Employment Type: Full-time Internship
• Closing Date: 06 March 2026

SANParks is under no obligation to offer permanent employment after completion.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify, you must:

• Be an unemployed South African graduate
• Be between 18 and 35 years old
• Have completed a National Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Honours Degree (NQF 6, 7 or 8)
• Have studied at a South African Public Higher Education Institution
• Not have previously participated in a Public Service internship or placement programme
• Not have prior formal employment experience

If you have previously completed a government internship, you do not qualify.

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Available Fields of Study & Positions

Below are the available internship placements:

This programme mainly focuses on Human Resources and related disciplines.

Stipend Structure

Monthly stipend depends on qualification level:

• NQF Level 6 (Diploma) – Lower range
• NQF Level 7 (Bachelor’s Degree) – Mid range
• NQF Level 8 (Honours Degree) – Up to R9 088.37

This is a training stipend, not a salary.

Important Application Requirements

You must attach:

• Updated CV
• Certified copy of Matric certificate
• Certified copies of academic qualifications
• Academic transcript (full academic record)
• Certified copy of South African ID

Failure to attach required documents will result in disqualification.

Important Notes Before Applying

• Clearly indicate the Park/Workstation, Division, and Field of Study.
• Manual applications will NOT be accepted.
• If applying outside your area of residence, you must arrange your own accommodation and transport.
• SANParks may provide accommodation in the park depending on availability.
• Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA.
• All appointments are subject to verification and screening.
• Preference will be given to PDI/HDSA candidates in line with employment equity.

If you are not contacted within 14 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the official Microsoft Forms link: https://forms.office.com/r/j0EbJ47mcN

Apply Online here

For enquiries:
Ms Bongiwe Ndaba
Tel: 012 426 5041

Do not submit manual applications.

Why This Internship Matters

This internship offers:

• Structured workplace experience in the public sector
• Exposure to conservation and biodiversity institutions
• A strong HR-focused training pathway
• Competitive monthly stipend
• Government-level professional experience

Internships within SANParks and SANBI are highly respected and strengthen your CV significantly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing certified documents
• Not including academic transcript
• Applying without meeting age requirements
• Applying after the closing date
• Submitting manual applications

Attention to detail is critical.

Conclusion

The SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026 at Groenkloof National Park and SANBI Pretoria provides an excellent opportunity for unemployed graduates in Human Resources and related fields.

With:

• 12 months of structured experience
• Stipend up to R9 088.37 per month
• Public sector exposure
• Placement within respected national institutions

This is a strong stepping stone into government or environmental careers.

If you meet all the requirements, prepare your certified documents carefully and submit your application before 06 March 2026.