Are you a recent graduate looking for structured workplace experience in the public sector? The SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026 offers a prestigious 12-month opportunity for unemployed South African youth. This initiative, hosted at Groenkloof National Park (Head Office) and SANBI Pretoria, is designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice.
As a collaboration between SANParks and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), this programme provides a competitive stipend and elite professional exposure within South Africa’s leading conservation bodies. Applications close on 06 March 2026.
SANParks Internship 2026: Fast Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Employer | SANParks & SANBI |
| Locations | Groenkloof (Pretoria) & SANBI (Pretoria) |
| Duration | 12 Months (Full-Time) |
| Stipend | R6 335.69 – R9 088.37 (Based on NQF Level) |
| Target NQF | Level 6 (Diploma) to Level 8 (Honours) |
| Closing Date | 06 March 2026 |
What is the CATHSSETA Internship Programme?
The Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA) partners with national institutions like SANParks to fund internships that build critical skills. Unlike a general job, this is a structured learning pathway where you are mentored by industry experts.
The Journey Includes:
- Professional Mentorship: Direct guidance from senior HR and Safety practitioners.
- Workplace Immersion: Involvement in high-impact projects at the SANParks Head Office.
- Competency Building: Developing specialized skills in industrial psychology, payroll, and biodiversity admin.
Available Divisions and Fields of Study
This year’s intake is heavily focused on Human Capital Management (HCM) and Support Services. Below are the specific positions available:
| Field of Study | Division / Department | Positions |
| Industrial Psychology (Honours) | Learning & Development | 1 |
| HR Development / Training | Learning & Development | 5 |
| Human Resource Management | Performance / Payroll / BSP | 7 |
| Safety Management | Occupational Health & Safety | 2 |
| Labour Relations | Human Resources | 2 |
| SANBI Placements (HR) | South African National Biodiversity Inst. | 5 |
Minimum Requirements: Do You Qualify?
To maintain the high standards of the National Parks system, all candidates must meet these strict criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
- Age: Between 18 and 35 years old.
- Education: Completed a National Diploma, Bachelor’s, or Honours Degree from a Public South African Higher Education Institution.
- Experience Status: Must be unemployed with no prior formal work or internship experience in the Public Service.
- NQF Alignment: Your qualification must be at Level 6, 7, or 8.
Stipend Structure
The monthly stipend is tiered based on your qualification level to ensure fair compensation for your academic achievement:
- NQF Level 6 (Diploma): R6 335.69
- NQF Level 7 (Bachelor’s Degree): Mid-range (approx. R7,500+)
- NQF Level 8 (Honours Degree): Up to R9 088.37
How to Apply: The Online Process
SANParks has digitized the application process. Manual or email applications will not be accepted.
Step 1: Document Checklist
Ensure you have clear, certified copies of the following (not older than 6 months):
- Updated CV and South African ID.
- Matric (Grade 12) Certificate.
- Degree/Diploma certificates.
- Full Academic Transcript (Crucial for screening).
Step 2: Submit via Microsoft Forms
Submit your application through the official portal: Official SANParks Application Link
Deadline: Submissions must be received by 06 March 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is accommodation provided?
While some internships in remote parks offer housing, the Groenkloof and SANBI placements in Pretoria generally require you to find your own transport and accommodation.
2. Can I apply if I graduated from a Private College?
No. The current CATHSSETA funding specifically targets graduates from Public South African Higher Education Institutions.
3. Does SANParks offer a permanent job after 12 months?
There is no obligation for SANParks to offer permanent employment. However, completing this internship makes you a high-tier candidate for future government and environmental vacancies.
4. Why is the Academic Transcript required?
SANParks uses transcripts to verify that your specific modules align with the departmental needs (e.g., ensuring your HR degree included Payroll or Labour Law).
5. What happens if I don’t hear back?
If you are not contacted within 14 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Hope Johnson
Hope Johnson is the Founder and Lead Content Editor of SETAWeb, a South Africa–based digital platform focused on education, SETA programmes, learnerships, bursaries, internships, and career opportunities. She has extensive experience researching, verifying, and publishing accurate information sourced from official SETAs, government departments, universities, and public sector institutions. Contact: [email protected]