Qualified pharmacy students are invited to apply for the 2026 Pharmacy Internship Programme with the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH). This annual programme provides essential practical training within registered hospitals and district pharmacies, preparing graduates for professional registration with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC).
Pharmacy Internship Programme Overview
The Gauteng Department of Health is committed to promoting equity in service delivery and empowering future pharmacists. The internship programme runs for twelve months from the date of SAPC registration and offers placement at various public health facilities across the province.
Applicants are reminded that positions are subject to final departmental approval and allocation depends on institutional capacity and service delivery needs.
Eligibility Criteria and Selection Guidelines
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens studying or completing a recognised Pharmacy qualification.
- Be registered with the South African Pharmacy Council by January 2026.
- Indicate three preferred placement facilities (District Hospital, Regional Hospital, and Tertiary or Specialised Hospital).
The department will not accept emailed or hand-delivered applications. All communication regarding the application will be conducted electronically.
Internship Commencement and Placement
Successful candidates are expected to start their internship on the first working day of January 2026. Placements are available across District, Regional, and Central Hospitals within the Gauteng public health sector.
Interns will receive training under the supervision of qualified pharmacists, ensuring compliance with SAPC regulations. Candidates must be prepared to serve at the allocated facility for the entire internship duration.
Pharmaceutical Services in Gauteng
The Gauteng Department of Health operates a wide network of pharmaceutical facilities responsible for medicine supply, quality assurance, and rational medicine use in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Interns will gain hands-on experience in:
- Dispensing and compounding of medication.
- Stock management and procurement processes.
- Clinical ward rounds and patient counselling.
- Reporting adverse drug reactions and monitoring antibiotic use.
This comprehensive exposure prepares interns for the ethical and technical demands of professional pharmacy practice.
Key Responsibilities of Pharmacy Interns
During the internship, participants will:
- Assist with medicine distribution to wards and clinics.
- Support the management of pharmacy stock levels.
- Collaborate with healthcare teams to ensure safe and effective patient care.
- Participate in research, audits, and quality improvement projects.
- Maintain accurate records in compliance with SAPC and departmental standards.
Envisaged Internship Posts for 2026
Internship positions are available in several facilities, including:
- Tertiary Hospitals: Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Steve Biko Academic Hospital, and Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital.
- Regional Hospitals: Tambo Memorial, Edenvale, Sebokeng, and others.
- District Hospitals: Kopanong, Bertha Gxowa, Mamelodi, and Bheki Mlangeni District Hospitals.
Each facility offers structured mentorship, supervised rotations, and a dynamic learning environment.
How to Apply
Eligible candidates can apply online via the official portal: https://pharmacyinternships.gauteng.gov.za
For assistance, applicants should contact their university’s pharmacy faculty or the Gauteng Department of Health – Pharmaceutical Services Directorate.
- Closing Date: 31 October 2025
- Start Date: January 2026
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed summary of qualifications (not longer than 4 pages).
- Certified Copies: ID, Matric Certificate, and Academic Transcripts (not older than 3 months).
- Proof of Registration: A certificate or letter confirming enrolment in a Pharmacy Degree or proof of completion of final-year studies.
- Testimonial Letter: Endorsement from a lecturer or university official.
- Motivational Letter: Explaining your interest and preferred areas of placement.
Check also: City of Johannesburg Internship Opportunities
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) is dedicated to improving public health outcomes by developing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Its pharmacy internship initiative forms part of the province’s commitment to Accessible, Quality Healthcare for All.
For more information, visit www.gauteng.gov.za or follow @GautengHealth on social media for updates.