The Eastern Cape Department of Public Works & Infrastructure has announced a major recruitment drive for 2026, offering more than 200 opportunities through its various youth development programmes. These Public Works Internships are aimed at graduates, students, and unemployed youth looking to gain valuable workplace experience.

If you have been searching for government internships in the Eastern Cape, this is your chance to kickstart your career.

Public Works Internships Available in 2026

The Department is recruiting candidates across five structured programmes designed to develop skills and improve employability. Below is a detailed breakdown of the available opportunities.

1. Graduate Internship Programme – x60 Posts

One of the flagship Public Works Internships on offer is the Graduate Internship Programme, which gives unemployed graduates the opportunity to gain practical experience in government.

• Duration: 24 Months
• Monthly Stipend: R7 860.50
• Centres: Bhisho, Mount Ayliff, East London, Queenstown, Aliwal North, Mthatha, Gqeberha

Fields Available:

• Corporate Management
• Financial Management
• Supply Chain Management
• Legal Services
• Internal Audit
• ICT Services
• Communication Services
• Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
• Strategy and Systems
• District Support Services

Requirements:

• A three-year National Diploma (NQF 6) or
• An Undergraduate Degree (NQF 7) in a relevant field

This programme is ideal for graduates who want to build experience through structured Public Works Internships in the public sector.

2. Work Integrated Learning Programme – x70 Posts

The Student Internship / Work Integrated Learning Programme forms a major part of the Public Works Internships initiative. It is designed for TVET college students who need practical training to complete their qualifications.

• Duration: 24 Months
• Monthly Stipend: R6 659.25
• Centres: Bhisho, Mount Ayliff, East London, Queenstown, Aliwal North, Mthatha, Gqeberha

Fields Include:

• Public Management
• Human Resource Management
• Financial Management
• Marketing Management
• Communication Services
• Supply Chain Management
• Office Support

Requirements:

• N6 Certificate in a relevant field

This is a great opportunity for students seeking Public Works Internships that provide formal workplace exposure.

3. Structured Youth Development Programme – x40 Posts

For unemployed youth who may not have tertiary qualifications, the Department is also offering entry-level Public Works Internships through the Structured Youth Development Programme.

Category 1

• Requirement: Grade 11
• Monthly Stipend: R4 774.00

Category 2

• Requirement: Grade 12
• Monthly Stipend: R5 639.75

Centres:

Bhisho, Mount Ayliff, Queenstown, Aliwal North, Mthatha, Gqeberha

This programme ensures that even youth without post-school qualifications can access Public Works Internships and gain meaningful experience.

4. Graduate Technical Internship Programme – x16 Posts

These specialized Public Works Internships are aimed at graduates in built environment and technical fields.

• Duration: 24 Months
• Monthly Stipend: R7 860.50

Fields Include:

• Architecture
• Quantity Surveying
• Construction Project Management
• Real Estate
• Environmental Management
• Facilities Management
• Occupational Health and Safety

Requirements:

• National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Degree or Honours Degree in a relevant built environment field

Centres:

Bhisho, Mount Ayliff, East London, Queenstown, Aliwal North, Mthatha, Gqeberha

This is one of the best Public Works Internships streams for candidates pursuing careers in construction and infrastructure.

5. Candidacy Support Programme – x20 Posts

This programme supports graduates who wish to obtain professional registration while gaining workplace experience.

• Duration: 48 Months
• Monthly Stipend: R7 860.50
• Location: Bhisho

Requirements:

• National Senior Certificate
• Diploma or Degree in Built Environment
• Registration as a Candidate with SACPCMP
• Valid Driver’s Licence

This structured programme forms part of the long-term Public Works Internships strategy to develop professionals in the built environment.

Who Can Apply for Public Works Internships?

The Eastern Cape Department of Public Works & Infrastructure is an equal opportunity employer. Preference will be given in line with Employment Equity targets.

The following groups are encouraged to apply:

• Unemployed graduates
• TVET students needing experiential learning
• Unemployed youth with Grade 11 or Grade 12
• Women
• Persons with disabilities

If you meet the requirements, you are encouraged to apply for these life-changing Public Works Internships.

How to Apply for Public Works Internships

All applications must be submitted online through the official Eastern Cape e-Recruitment System.

👉 Apply here:
https://erecruitment.ecotp.gov.za

Important Application Information:

• Applications close at 23:59 on 13 February 2026
• No late applications will be accepted
• No emailed, posted, or hand-delivered applications will be considered

Required Documents:

• Completed Z83 form (automatically generated by the system)
• Updated CV
• Supporting documents will only be requested from shortlisted candidates

Why You Should Apply

The 2026 Public Works Internships programme is one of the largest government youth development initiatives in the Eastern Cape. With over 200 positions available, it offers real opportunities to:

• Gain workplace experience
• Develop professional skills
• Earn a monthly stipend
• Improve future employment prospects

If you are serious about building your career, these Public Works Internships could be your stepping stone into long-term employment.

Enquiries

For any questions related to the Public Works Internships application process:

e-recruitment-bhisho@ecdpw.gov.za

Programme-specific enquiries can be directed to the contacts listed in the official vacancy circular.