KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (KZN COGTA) has announced a significant boost for unemployed graduates and students in need of workplace exposure. The department is offering 50 Graduate Internship posts and 10 Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme positions for the 2026–2028 financial years.

This is a crucial opportunity for aspiring professionals across various fields to gain practical experience in public service while contributing to community development.

What is KZN COGTA Offering in 2026?

KZN COGTA is rolling out two developmental programmes:

1. Graduate Internship Programme (24 Months)

The programme targets unemployed graduates from KwaZulu-Natal who have never participated in a government internship. A total of 50 internship posts are available across 11 fields.

Key Qualifications Needed:

• Public Administration / Management (15 posts)
• Accounting / Financial Management / Auditing (5 posts)
• Computer Science / IT (3 posts)
• LLB / Anthropology (3 posts)
• HR Management / Organisational Development (10 posts)
• GIS (3 posts)
• Engineering / Architecture / Quantity Surveying (3 posts)
• Disaster or Environmental Management / Safety (3 posts)
• Town and Regional Planning (2 posts)
• Visual Communication / Photography / Graphic Design (2 posts)
• Logistics / Transport (1 post)

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2. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme (12–18 Months)

This opportunity is open to students registered with recognised institutions who require practical exposure to complete their qualifications.

Fields and Posts:

• Public Administration (4 posts)
• Engineering (2 posts)
• Human Resource Management (4 posts)

Applicants must provide a letter from their institution confirming the need for WIL.

KZN COGTA Internships: Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the KZN COGTA Internships, applicants must:

• Be residents of KwaZulu-Natal (proof required via a ward councillor letter, municipal bill, or affidavit)
• Be unemployed
• Not have previously participated in a government internship or WIL programme
• Have completed (or be studying for) a relevant 3- or 4-year qualification

How to Apply for KZN COGTA Internships

All applications must be submitted using the new Z83 form, which can be downloaded from DPSA’s website or collected from any government department.

Required Documents:

• Fully completed and signed Z83 form
• Certified ID and qualification copies
• Proof of residence (e.g., councillor letter or affidavit)
• CV
• Affidavit confirming non-participation in previous internships
• For WIL applicants: Letter from institution confirming WIL requirement

Submission Methods:

• Hand-deliver to: Natalia Building, 330 Langalibalele Street, Pietermaritzburg
• Post to: Private Bag X9078, Pietermaritzburg, 3200 (Att: Head of Department)
• District Office Submission: You may also drop your application at your nearest KZN COGTA District Office.

Closing Date: 28 January 2026

Contact Details for Enquiries

Applicants can reach out to the following officials for support:

• Joey Kilian – 033 260 8263 / 066 242 6079 | joey.kilian@kzncogta.gov.za
• Senzo Tabete – 033 260 8264 / 078 247 0487 | senzo.tabete@kzncogta.gov.za

Advantages of Joining the KZN COGTA Internships

These internship and WIL placements come with multiple benefits:

• On-the-job training in government operations
• Exposure to real-world service delivery
• Build professional networks and references
• Increased employability for future roles in both the public and private sectors

Interns will work alongside experienced professionals in infrastructure, governance, HR, finance, disaster management and more.

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FAQs About KZN COGTA Internships

KZN COGTA is investing in the future of KwaZulu-Natal’s youth by opening 60 new developmental posts. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a student needing workplace exposure, these opportunities could be your launchpad into a fulfilling career in public service.