Applications are now open for the Department of Health Work Integrated Learning Programme 2026, an 18-month opportunity for N6 graduates in KwaZulu-Natal seeking practical workplace experience in the public health sector.
For many young South Africans, lack of workplace experience remains a major barrier to employment. This programme directly addresses that challenge by offering hands-on training aligned with participants’ fields of study, while also supporting service delivery in the public health sector.
Applications close on 26 February 2026, and eligible candidates are encouraged to apply early through their district of residence.
🔔 Programme Overview: Department of Health Work Integrated Learning 2026
- Programme Name: Department of Health Work Integrated Learning (WIL)
- Programme Type: Work Integrated Learning (Practical Placement)
- Duration: 18 Months
- Target Group: Undergraduate youth with N6 qualifications
- Province: KwaZulu-Natal
- Employer: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health
- Reference Number: WIL 26
- Closing Date: 26 February 2026
📍 Placement Locations (District-Based)
Placements are available across the following KwaZulu-Natal districts:
- eThekwini
- uMgungundlovu
- uGu
- King Cetshwayo
- Zululand
- uMkhanyakude
- Harry Gwala
- Amajuba
- iLembe
- uMzinyathi
- Head Office (Natal)
Applicants must apply only to the district where they reside. Applications submitted to other districts will not be considered.
👥 Number of Positions
- Multiple WIL positions available
- Allocation depends on district needs and qualification relevance
What Is the Department of Health Work Integrated Learning Programme?
The Department of Health Work Integrated Learning programme is a formal initiative aimed at bridging the gap between theory and practice for TVET college graduates. It allows qualifying youth to apply what they learned academically in a real working environment under supervision.
Unlike short-term internships, this programme runs for 18 months, giving participants enough time to develop workplace competence, professional behaviour, and practical skills relevant to their careers. Duties assigned are directly related to the participant’s qualification, ensuring meaningful learning rather than general administrative exposure.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is open to undergraduate youth from KwaZulu-Natal who meet the following criteria:
- Must reside in KwaZulu-Natal Province
- Must hold a relevant N6 qualification
- Must require workplace exposure to complete studies
- Must be unemployed
- Must not have previously benefited from a Work Integrated Learning programme
The Department of Health is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from people with disabilities (PWD) as part of its commitment to inclusivity and representativity.
Fields and Qualifications Covered
Applications are invited from candidates with N6 qualifications in the following areas:
Administration and Office Support
- N6 Public Management
- N6 Management Assistant / Secretariat
- N6 Office Management / Office Technology
Human Resources and Communication
- N6 Human Resource Management
- N6 Public Relations
Finance
- N6 Financial Management
Maintenance and Technical Fields
- N6 Plumbing
- N6 Electrical Engineering
- N6 Civil Engineering
- N6 Artisan Fitter
- N6 Carpentry
Hospitality
- N6 Hospitality
Placement depends on district availability and operational requirements.
Key Performance Areas During the Programme
Participants accepted into the Department of Health Work Integrated Learning Programme will be expected to:
- Perform duties assigned by their supervisor
- Carry out tasks aligned to their specific qualification
- Support daily operations within their placement institution
- Demonstrate professionalism, punctuality, and accountability
- Participate in structured workplace learning activities
These responsibilities ensure that participants gain relevant, career-focused experience rather than generic work exposure.
District-Based Application Process
Applicants must submit one application only to the District Office of their residential area. Applications submitted to districts outside the applicant’s place of residence will be disqualified.
This approach ensures fair access to opportunities and allows districts to manage placements effectively within their institutions.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Completed Z83 application form
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Certified copies of N6 qualification certificates
- Letter from TVET College requesting workplace placement
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Signed affidavit from a Commissioner of Oaths confirming:
- Unemployment status
- No prior participation in a WIL programme
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit one application only to the District Office of their residential area. Applications submitted to districts outside your place of residence will not be considered.
Ensure that all required documents are attached and that your application is submitted before the closing date. Incomplete or late applications may result in disqualification.
Learn More
For full application details, official guidance, and updates on the Department of Health Work Integrated Learning Programme and other opportunities, visit the link below: https://www.kznhealth.gov.za/internship-adverts-2026/
Related Articles with Career opportunities:
- 10 UNISA Internships 2026 Open Now
- 2026 career opportunities
- Rand Water Horticulture Learnership Programme
Important Instructions to Note
- Z83 forms are available from Health District Offices, Hospitals, Institutions, and Head Office
- Only one application per applicant is allowed
- Late applications will not be accepted
- If applicants do not receive feedback within four weeks after the closing date, they should regard their application as unsuccessful
Strict compliance with these instructions is required.
Why the Department of Health Work Integrated Learning Programme Is Important
Youth unemployment continues to affect thousands of qualified graduates in South Africa. The Department of Health Work Integrated Learning programme plays a crucial role in addressing this challenge by offering structured workplace exposure in a critical public sector environment.
Benefits of the programme include:
- Practical experience in a government department
- Improved employability after completion
- Exposure to public health systems and administration
- Development of technical and professional skills
For many participants, this programme becomes a stepping stone to further opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
Closing Date Reminder
The official closing date for applications is:
🗓 26 February 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the Department of Health Work Integrated Learning Programme?
The programme runs for 18 months.
Who qualifies to apply?
Undergraduate youth from KwaZulu-Natal with relevant N6 qualifications.
Can I apply to more than one district?
No. Only one application to your district of residence is allowed.
Is the programme open to people with disabilities?
Yes. Applications from people with disabilities are encouraged.
Is this a permanent job?
No. This is a Work Integrated Learning placement, not permanent employment.
What happens if I don’t receive feedback?
If you do not hear back within four weeks after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Final Thoughts
The Department of Health Work Integrated Learning Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for N6 graduates to gain practical experience while contributing to essential public health services. With structured training, district-based placement, and a clear focus on skills development, this programme provides a strong foundation for future career growth.
Eligible candidates are encouraged to prepare their documents carefully and apply before the closing date.
Karabo Ntswaki – Author of CareersFocus.co.za
Karabo Ntswaki is passionate about empowering South Africans with reliable, verified, and easily accessible information about careers and education. Through CareersFocus.co.za, Karabo’s mission is to support students, job seekers, and young professionals by providing accurate guidance on learnerships, internships, bursaries.
Her vision is to make CareersFocus.co.za the most trusted online source in South Africa for career and educational information, helping individuals overcome barriers, make informed decisions about professional goals. you can contact me at info@careersfocus.co.za or our website https://careersfocus.co.za/