In a bold step toward empowering the province’s youth, the Eastern Cape Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has opened applications for its highly anticipated 2025/26 – 2026/27 Internship Programme.
With 20 internship positions available, this two-year initiative offers graduates a chance to gain practical experience in public service and become part of the machinery that drives development and governance across the Eastern Cape.
A Valuable Opportunity for Graduates
The internship programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional employment. Each successful intern will receive a monthly stipend of R7,142.00, easing the financial burden as they gain critical work experience.
The programme targets unemployed graduates aged 18 to 35 who hold diplomas or degrees in key fields such as finance, internal auditing, public administration, communication, information systems, spatial planning, development studies, and others.
Interns will be placed in various directorates across Bhisho and district support centres. These placements will expose them to real-world challenges and solutions within the provincial government, helping them sharpen their skills and prepare for long-term employment opportunities.
Internship Areas and Qualifications
Below are some of the available internship opportunities, their respective directorates, and required qualifications:
- Internal Audit Process (Ref: COGTA 19/06/2025): National Diploma or BCom in Internal Auditing.
- Financial Accounting (Ref: COGTA 20/06/2025): BCompt or equivalent finance qualification.
- Public Administration (Ref: COGTA 21/06/2025): Diploma or Degree in Public Management/Administration.
- Anti-Corruption & Security Management (Ref: COGTA 22/06/2025): Law, Forensic Investigation, or Security Management-related qualification.
- Graphic Design/Social Media (Ref: COGTA 23/06/2025): Diploma or Degree in Graphic Design or Communications.
- Budget & Planning (Ref: COGTA 24/06/2025): Financial Accounting or Management Accounting.
- Supply Chain Management (Ref: COGTA 25/06/2025): Finance or Supply Chain-related qualifications.
- Monitoring & Evaluation (Ref: COGTA 30/06/2025): Public Administration or Development Studies.
Other positions include opportunities in Strategic Planning, Human Resource Development, Fire and Rescue Services, Cadastral Surveying, and Municipal Administration.
Who Should Apply?
COGTA is specifically targeting candidates who:
- Are South African citizens.
- Are unemployed and have never participated in an internship in the public sector.
- Have completed a diploma or degree relevant to the internship post.
- Reside within the Eastern Cape or are willing to relocate for the duration of the programme.
In alignment with Employment Equity, women, people with disabilities, and individuals from previously disadvantaged backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit their applications via the Eastern Cape provincial e-Recruitment system, which is accessible 24/7.
Step-by-step Application Guide:
- Visit the official portal at https://erecruitment.ecotp.gov.za/.
- If you don’t have an account, register with your ID number and a valid email address.
- Log in and search for “Internship Programme” or the relevant reference numbers.
- Click on the preferred internship post and complete the online application form.
- Upload your CV and academic qualifications.
- Submit your application before the closing date: 11 July 2025 at 23:59.
Important Notes:
- No faxed, emailed, hand-delivered or posted applications will be accepted.
- The e-recruitment system automatically generates a Z83 form during the application process.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within six months after the closing date.
- Only certified copies of qualifications and other documents will be requested on or before the interview.
For technical issues with the system, applicants can send an email (including ID number and profile email address) to [email protected].
A Stepping Stone to Success
The Eastern Cape COGTA Internship Programme is more than just a job opportunity. It is a platform for learning, growing, and making meaningful contributions to local governance and community development. For many, this could be the first step toward a lifelong career in the public sector.
As one of the key departments driving cooperative governance, traditional affairs, and service delivery, COGTA plays a crucial role in shaping communities and policy. Being part of this department gives interns a front-row seat to the workings of provincial government and an opportunity to be part of real change.
Check also: PPC: Youth Development Programme 2025
