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Employer: Free State Department of Health
Location: Free State
Closing Date: 04 September 2026
The Free State Department of Health has officially opened applications for its Graduate Internship Programme for 2026. With over 120 graduate internship vacancies listed across various health districts and offices, this opportunity offers graduates valuable practical workplace experience in the public sector.
If you are a South African citizen seeking a 24-month internship opportunity to launch your career, this detailed guide provides everything you need to know about requirements, duties, remuneration, and the step-by-step online application process.
Company Overview
The Free State Department of Health is a provincial government department dedicated to delivering accessible, high-quality healthcare services across the Free State province. Through its e-Recruitment platform, the department regularly invites qualified candidates to join its administrative and health service facilities.
Job Overview
- Post Title: Graduate Internship
- Department: Health
- Advert Type: External
- Employment Type: Internship
- Duration: 24 Months
- Total Posts: Over 120 vacancies across various centers
- Closing Date: 04 September 2026
Job Purpose
The purpose of the Graduate Internship Programme is to provide practical workplace training to qualified graduates, enabling them to complete basic tasks under mentor guidance, complete work-integrated learning logbooks, and enhance their employability within the public service sector.
Key Responsibilities (Duties)
Interns appointed to these positions will perform the following duties:
- Execute basic tasks as assigned by the mentor in relation to Office Management and the Learner Guide/Workbook/Logbook.
- Attend compulsory funded Personal Mastery Courses pertaining to Work Integrated Learning appointees.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the Free State Department of Health Graduate Internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: Grade 12 plus a completed undergraduate tertiary qualification in Office Management at NQF Level 6 (National Diploma) OR NQF Level 7 / 8 (Degree).
- Citizenship: Must hold South African Citizenship.
- Previous Internship Experience: Applicants who have already completed a 24-month internship programme may NOT apply for these advertised posts.
- Equity Preference: Historically disadvantaged individuals will receive preference.
Preferred Skills & Knowledge
Candidates are expected to demonstrate the following competencies:
- Communication and computer skills
- Sound organisational skills
- Literacy and numeracy skills
- Time management
- Problem-solving abilities
- Well-presented, neat appearance and professional telephone etiquette
Salary and Benefits
- Salary / Stipend: R 98,087 per annum
- Salary Level: Stipend
- Additional Benefits: Funded Personal Mastery Course training provided during the contract period.
Work Locations / Centres
Internship posts are distributed across multiple healthcare centers and district offices in the Free State, including but not limited to:
- Bloemfontein (Head Office) (Multiple posts of 10+)
- Xhariep District Office (Multiple listings)
- Albert Nzula District Hospital
- Thabo Mofutsanyane District Office
(Note: Specific post allocations per center can be viewed directly on the Free State e-Recruitment portal).
Required Documents
While the portal handles applications online, applicants generally need to prepare and upload standard South African public sector application documents:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of Grade 12 Certificate
- Certified copy of NQF 6 / 7 / 8 Office Management Qualification / Academic Record
- Certified copy of South African ID
(Note: Exact document attachment instructions are detailed inside the online e-Recruitment application workflow).
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applications must be submitted online via the Free State e-Recruitment Portal.
- Register: Visit the official Free State e-Recruitment portal and create an account (Step 1 on portal).
- Login: Log into your newly created e-Recruitment account (Step 2 on portal).
- Create Profile: Fill in your personal details, educational qualifications, and contact information to complete your user profile (Step 3 on portal).
- Apply: Search for “Graduate Internship” under the Health Department filter, select your preferred location/centre, and click Apply (Step 4 on portal).
Important Notes
- Strict Eligibility: Candidates who have previously participated in a 24-month government internship are disqualified.
- Compulsory Training: Appointees are mandated to complete the Personal Mastery Course provided during their employment.
- Deadline: Ensure all online steps are completed on or before 04 September 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the closing date for the Free State Department of Health Graduate Internship 2026?
The closing date for applications is 04 September 2026.
What qualification is required for this internship?
Applicants must have a Grade 12 certificate plus an undergraduate qualification (NQF 6 National Diploma or NQF 7/8 Degree) specifically in Office Management.
How much does the Free State Health Graduate Internship pay?
The post offers a stipend of R 98,087 per annum.
Can I apply if I have previously completed an internship?
No. Candidates who have already completed a 24-month internship programme are not eligible to apply.
How long is the contract period?
The contract duration is 24 months.
Conclusion
The Free State Department of Health Graduate Internship Programme 2026 offers an excellent pathway for Office Management graduates to gain practical experience and earn a stipend in the public service. Interested and qualified South African citizens are encouraged to complete their online profile and apply early on the e-Recruitment platform before the closing date of 04 September 2026.
