Explore everything you need to know about the DBE Internship Programme 2025—eligibility, benefits, application steps, and tips to help you.
Are you a young South African graduate or school-leaver hoping to start your career in the public sector? The DBE Internship Programme 2025 offers you the chance to gain valuable work experience while contributing to the country’s education system.
This friendly, step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know—from eligibility and fields of placement to the benefits and how to apply successfully.
What is the DBE Internship Programme 2025 All About?
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) internship is designed to provide young, unemployed South Africans with real work experience in various educational and administrative roles. It’s part of a national effort to empower youth, reduce unemployment, and strengthen the country’s education system.
This internship gives you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in school or university in a real working environment—while being mentored by professionals.
Who Can Apply for the DBE Internship Programme 2025?
To be eligible for this opportunity, you must:
- Be a South African citizen, aged 18 to 35
- Be unemployed
- Have no previous participation in a government internship or learnership
- Hold a Matric certificate, diploma, or a degree in a relevant field
Fields Available in the DBE Internship Programme 2025
There are a wide variety of fields and disciplines accepted for the DBE Internship Programme 2025, including:
- Education Support: Teaching, Curriculum Development, Educational Psychology, Early Childhood Development
- Administration: Public Management, Human Resources, Office Administration
- Finance: Accounting, Financial Management, Internal Auditing
- ICT and Data: Information Technology, Data Capturing, Data Analysis
- Communication and Media: Journalism, Public Relations, Social Media, Graphic Design
- Legal and Governance: Law, Public Policy, Labour Relations
- Engineering and Infrastructure: Civil Engineering, Health & Safety, Project Management
- Community Work: Social Work, Psychology, Community Development
No matter your area of study, there may be a role for you to grow in this internship.
What Are the Benefits of the DBE Internship Programme 2025?
This internship is more than just a job—it’s a structured, empowering experience. Here’s what you can expect:
- Monthly Stipend
- R5,640 for those with only Matric
- R7,860 for diploma or degree holders
- Professional Mentorship
You’ll work under experienced professionals who can guide and support your career growth. - Workplace Readiness
Learn real-life skills like communication, teamwork, time management, and professional ethics. - Government Experience
Gain valuable insight into how the Department of Basic Education operates, from curriculum planning to policy implementation. - Network Building
You’ll connect with fellow interns, DBE staff, and senior professionals who can help you with future career opportunities.
How to Apply for the DBE Internship Programme 2025
Step 1: Prepare the Required Documents
You’ll need the following:
- Completed and signed Z83 application form (available at any government office or online)
- Comprehensive CV (updated and professional)
- Certified copies of:
- South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Highest qualification
- Proof of residence (recent utility bill or affidavit)
Important: All copies must be certified within the last 6 months.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
You can choose one of the following methods:
- By Post:
Send to: The Director-General,
Department of Basic Education
Private Bag X895
Pretoria, 0001 - By Hand:
Deliver to: DBE Head Office,
222 Struben Street, Pretoria - By Email:
Send your application to one of these email addresses (as per the official advert):
recruitment@dbe.gov.za or hr@dbe.gov.za
Step 3: Keep the Deadline in Mind
- Closing Date: 29 August 2025
Applications submitted after this date will not be considered.
Helpful Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out
- Customise Your CV: Highlight the skills that are most relevant to the internship role you’re applying for.
- Be Clear and Concise: Use bullet points and easy-to-read formatting.
- Proofread Everything: Spelling and grammar errors can weaken your application.
- Submit Early: Don’t wait until the last minute—apply as soon as possible.
- Stay Professional: Use a clear email subject line and name your documents logically (e.g. “YourName_CV_DBE2025”).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is work experience required?
No. The DBE Internship Programme 2025 is specifically designed for people with little or no work experience. That’s the whole point—to help you grow.
Can I apply if I already did another government internship?
Unfortunately, no. The programme is only open to first-time internship participants in government.
Will this lead to a permanent job?
While there’s no guarantee, successful interns may gain future opportunities either within the DBE or in other sectors based on their performance and experience gained.
Can I apply for more than one role?
Yes, but each application must be submitted separately with a properly adjusted CV for the role you are applying to.
Why You Should Consider the DBE Internship Programme 2025
If you’re looking for:
- A solid start to your career
- Hands-on experience in government
- Professional growth with real mentorship
- A chance to serve South Africa’s education system
…then this internship is tailor-made for you.
It’s more than ticking boxes—it’s about making a difference, both in your career and in the communities you’ll serve.
A Quick Summary of the DBE Internship Programme 2025
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | DBE Internship Programme 2025 |
| Department | Department of Basic Education (DBE) |
| Location | Pretoria (and potentially other provinces) |
| Duration | 24 months (fixed-term contract) |
| Stipend | R5,640 – R7,860 per month |
| Who Can Apply | South African youth, aged 18–35 |
| Education Level | Matric, Diploma, or Degree |
| Application Deadline | 29 August 2025 |
| Application Methods | Post, Hand-Delivery, or Email |
Final Thoughts: The First Step Starts With You
The DBE Internship Programme 2025 is your opportunity to gain professional skills, build your career, and play a role in strengthening education in South Africa. Whether you’ve just graduated or are still figuring out your next step, this internship could be your launchpad.
Take the leap—prepare your documents, submit your application, and get ready to grow.