24-Month Internship Programme for Graduates at the Department of Forestry Fisheries and the Environment

Are you a recent graduate in South Africa looking to gain real-world experience and kickstart your professional career? The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is offering an exciting 24-month Internship Programme for unemployed graduates.

This programme provides an excellent opportunity for young professionals to gain practical work experience, mentorship, and exposure to government operations within the environmental sector. Interns will contribute to departmental projects while developing valuable skills that can enhance their future employment opportunities.

Why Work with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

Working with DFFE gives graduates the chance to build experience within one of South Africa’s key environmental and public sector institutions. The department focuses on protecting natural resources, promoting sustainable development, and supporting environmental conservation.

Moreover, interns benefit from a structured learning environment where they can develop both technical and professional skills.

Key benefits of the internship programme include:

• 24 months of practical workplace experience
• Exposure to environmental management and public administration
• Opportunities to work with experienced professionals and mentors
• Skill development to improve future career prospects
• Experience within a government department

Consequently, the programme is ideal for graduates who want to pursue careers in environmental science, forestry, administration, communications, IT, finance, and other related fields.

About the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is responsible for managing and protecting South Africa’s natural resources, including forests, fisheries, and biodiversity. The department also works to promote sustainable environmental practices and climate resilience.

Through various programmes and policies, DFFE aims to ensure that environmental resources contribute to economic development while remaining protected for future generations. Internships within the department allow graduates to participate directly in projects related to conservation, environmental monitoring, public communication, and policy development.

Internship Locations

The internship programme is available across multiple provinces in South Africa, including:

• Gauteng
• Limpopo
• North West
• Free State
• Mpumalanga
• Eastern Cape
• KwaZulu-Natal
• Northern Cape
• Western Cape

This nationwide availability allows graduates from different regions to participate in the programme.

Who Can Apply for DFFE Internship?

The internship programme is open to unemployed South African graduates who hold relevant qualifications in fields related to the available positions.

Eligible qualifications include areas such as:

• Forestry and Environmental Science
• Nature Conservation and Environmental Management
• Journalism, Public Relations, and Communications
• Information Technology and Computer Science
• Public Administration and Business Management
• Finance, Accounting, and Auditing
• Human Resource Management
• GIS and Geography
• Climate Science and Environmental Engineering
• Social Sciences and Development Studies

Additionally, applicants must have completed a National Diploma, Degree, B-Tech, Honours, or Postgraduate qualification depending on the specific internship post.

How to Apply for DFFE Internship?

Interested applicants must follow the official application process carefully.

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Applicants must submit the following:

• Completed Z83 Application Form
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Both documents must be combined into a single PDF attachment when applying online.

Step 2: Submit the Application

Applications can be submitted in the following ways:

Download PDF here

Pretoria, Gauteng, Limpopo, North West, Free State and Mpumalanga

Send applications to:
Director-General
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Private Bag X447
Pretoria, 0001

Or hand-deliver to:
Environment House
Cnr Soutpansberg and Steve Biko Road
Arcadia, Pretoria

Alternatively, email applications to the appropriate address depending on the internship post.

Coastal Provinces (Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape and Western Cape)

Send applications to:
Director-General
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Private Bag X4390
Cape Town, 8000

Or hand deliver to:

• Foretrust Building, No.3 Martin Hammerschlag Way, Foreshore, Cape Town
• Old Mutual Building, 5th Floor, 185 Langalibalele Street, Pietermaritzburg

Step 3: Use the Correct Reference Number

When sending your application:

• Include the correct reference number of the internship
• Mention the job title in the email subject line
• Use the correct email address associated with the position

Important Note

Only shortlisted candidates will be asked to submit certified copies of ID documents, qualifications, and academic transcripts.

Final Thought

The 24-month internship programme at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is an excellent opportunity for graduates seeking practical experience in the environmental and public sector. With positions available across multiple provinces and fields of study, the programme offers valuable exposure to real government projects and professional mentorship.

Therefore, if you are a qualified graduate eager to gain hands-on experience while contributing to environmental sustainability, consider applying for this internship programme and take an important step toward building your career.

Read also: Mzumbe University & Tanzania Safa Kühne Foundation Internship Programme 2026