NHLS Graduate Internship Programme 2026: A Comprehensive Guide for South African Graduates
NHLS Graduate Internship Programme 2026: A Complete Guide for South African Graduates
The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) Graduate Internship Programme for 2026 is one of the most critical institutions within South Africa’s public health system, has officially opened applications for its highly regarded Graduate Internship Programme for 2026. This annual initiative offers young, unemployed graduates a chance to gain practical workplace experience across technical, administrative and scientific fields.
With 35 internship opportunities available nationwide, the programme remains one of the strongest gateways for graduates hoping to build meaningful careers within public health, research, and laboratory services. Because South Africa continues to face high youth unemployment levels, the NHLS programme provides a valuable stepping stone toward long-term employability and professional growth.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything applicants need to know—from eligibility criteria and available fields to the full application process.
Programme Overview
The NHLS Graduate Internship Programme is offered across several provinces and specialised divisions, including:
- Gauteng
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Free State / North West
- Limpopo / Mpumalanga
- Western / Northern Cape
- Eastern Cape
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD)
- National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH)
- NHLS Corporate Division
Moreover, the internship runs for two years, beginning 1 March 2026, making it longer and more in-depth than most public sector internships. Consequently, graduates gain the time and space needed to develop specialised skills, establish professional networks, and accumulate real workplace experience that enhances career readiness.
About the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS)
The NHLS is South Africa’s largest diagnostic pathology service and plays an essential role in supporting hospitals, clinics and public health programmes nationwide. It conducts millions of tests each year and is central to disease surveillance, outbreak response and laboratory research.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing advanced diagnostic tests
- Supporting national disease monitoring
- Conducting scientific research through the NICD and NIOH
- Offering laboratory support to public healthcare facilities
- Contributing to emergency health interventions
Because of its national footprint and research capabilities, the NHLS offers interns exposure to state-of-the-art laboratories, highly specialised scientific teams, and leading public health experts.
Programme Structure and Benefits
The 2026 internship is designed to ensure graduates actively engage in real tasks rather than observing from the sidelines. As a result, interns develop both technical and soft skills that improve their employability.
Key benefits include:
1. Practical Workplace Experience
Interns work directly within operational teams, handling real duties such as data capturing, analysis, administration, laboratory support, and departmental projects.
2. Mentorship and Guidance
Each intern is paired with an experienced mentor who provides training, feedback and career support throughout the programme.
3. Professional Growth Opportunities
Interns gain exposure to multiple organisational functions, allowing them to broaden their understanding of workplace systems and procedures.
4. Exposure to Advanced Laboratories
Because NHLS collaborates closely with NICD and NIOH, interns benefit from a learning environment driven by research and national health development.
5. Monthly Stipend
A stipend is provided according to NHLS policy. Although it does not cover accommodation or transport, it ensures financial support during the internship.
6. Enhanced Employability
Upon completing the programme, interns leave with nationally recognised work experience, which significantly boosts job prospects.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the NHLS Graduate Internship Programme 2026, applicants must:
- Be unemployed South African citizens aged 18–35
- Hold an NQF Level 6, 7 or 8 qualification, such as a Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, Honours Degree or Master’s Degree
- Ensure the qualification aligns with the internship role applied for
- Not have participated in any Public Service internship before
- Be computer literate and able to communicate professionally in English
- Possess a valid driver’s licence (advantageous but not compulsory)
Required Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong communication and teamwork
- Discipline, reliability and accountability
- Willingness to learn and adapt
- Time management and organisational skills
- Resilience and emotional intelligence
- Technical ability relating to their field of study
These attributes support the NHLS commitment to developing a capable and high-performance workforce.
Available Internship Opportunities
The NHLS offers diverse roles across departments, enabling graduates from various fields to apply. Available areas include:
- Information Technology (Support, Development, Networking)
- Finance and Accounting
- Human Resources
- Internal Audit and Risk
- Supply Chain Management
- Procurement
- Logistics and Inventory Control
- Employee Relations
- Marketing and Communications
- Graphic and Web Design
- Facilities and Infrastructure
- Administration and Office Support
Because placements exist across multiple provinces and institutes, applicants can choose roles that best match their academic backgrounds and career goals.
How to Apply
To submit a complete and compliant application, applicants must:
1. Prepare a detailed CV
- Include accurate dates and clear formatting
- Highlight relevant skills and academic experience
2. Attach certified copies of:
- South African ID
- Academic qualifications
- Driver’s licence (if applicable)
Certification must be valid and properly scanned.
3. Submit via email
Send your application to: Corporate2@nhls.ac.za
Contacts for queries: Ms Sesethu Bhabha / Mr Lunga Mndebele (011 386 6187)
Use the correct position title and reference number in the email subject line.
4. Apply before the closing date
Deadline: 15 December 2025
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early to avoid last-minute delays
- Match your qualification to the job requirements
- Keep your email message short, clear and professional
- Check that your documents are correctly certified
- Proofread your CV for errors
- Submit separate applications for each role you want to apply for
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply?
Any unemployed South African aged 18–35 with an NQF Level 6–8 qualification relevant to the internship.
2. Do I need experience?
No. This programme targets graduates with limited or no work experience.
3. Is accommodation provided?
No. Only a monthly stipend is offered.
4. Can I apply for more than one role?
Yes, but each application must be submitted separately.
5. What happens after applying?
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
6. Can I apply if I have been part of a previous Public Service internship?
No. Applicants must not have participated in any Public Service internship before.
7. When does the internship start?
The programme begins on 1 March 2026.
8. Do I need a driver’s licence?
