Are you a recent Environmental Science or Management graduate internship looking for real work experience in the public sector? Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is inviting applications for its 2025 Municipal Environmental Graduate Programme, an employment-driven initiative aimed at equipping graduates with vital skills and workplace exposure.
With 420 available posts across all nine provinces, this two-year fixed-term opportunity offers the chance to gain invaluable experience, contribute to local government sustainability efforts, and launch your environmental career in a meaningful and impactful way.
What is the Municipal Environmental Graduate Programme?
The Municipal Environmental Graduate Programme (MEGP) is a national initiative under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), specifically designed to provide environmental graduates with workplace exposure within local municipalities. The programme runs for two years on a fixed-term contract basis, with potential for renewal based on individual performance and budget availability.
Graduates selected for this programme will be placed in various municipalities across South Africa where they’ll gain practical experience in environmental management, municipal planning, data reporting, and public awareness initiatives. This opportunity is ideal for those passionate about sustainability, climate action, and community development.
Why You Should Apply
- Kickstart Your Career: Gain two years of hands-on experience in local government structures.
- Nationwide Opportunities: 420 posts are available across all nine provinces, giving you a better chance of selection and placement.
- Supportive Government Programme: This is a national initiative aimed at bridging the gap between academic qualifications and real-world environmental work.
- Personal and Professional Growth: Enhance your employability with exposure to environmental monitoring, project implementation, and public engagement.
- Fixed-Term Employment Security: A stable income for two years in a challenging economy.
Who Should Apply?
- Hold a relevant National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Management, Environmental Sciences, or related fields (e.g., Town and Regional Planning, Environmental Health, Natural Sciences, Biological Sciences, etc.).
- Are unemployed graduates with no prior work experience in their field of study.
- Have a strong interest in environmental policy, sustainability, or public administration.
- Are willing and able to relocate or commute independently, as the programme does not cover accommodation or transportation costs.
- Can provide a recent and detailed CV along with a signed application letter.
Key Responsibilities of Successful Candidates
During your two-year placement, you will support various environmental initiatives within your assigned municipality. Some of the core tasks include:
- Assisting in local environmental planning and reporting, including coordinating and submitting reports to relevant oversight bodies like the South African Local Government Association (SALGA).
- Supporting data collection and environmental monitoring to track ecological impacts and compliance.
- Implementing and tracking Municipal Environmental Management Frameworks and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Participating in Departmental Sector Programmes, such as project planning, evaluation, and community engagement.
- Providing administrative support and contributing to intergovernmental planning activities.
Available Posts by Province and Reference Codes
Applicants must indicate the correct province, reference number, and local municipality when applying. Use the codes listed below:
- Limpopo: MEGP_01_LP
- KwaZulu-Natal: MEGP_02_KZN
- Mpumalanga: MEGP_03_MPU
- Eastern Cape: MEGP_04_EC
- Western Cape: MEGP_05_WC
- Northern Cape: MEGP_06_NC
- Free State: MEGP_07_FS
- North West: MEGP_08_NW
- Gauteng: MEGP_09_GP
Application Deadline: 21 June 2025
How to Apply
To apply, you must submit a signed application letter along with a detailed and updated curriculum vitae (CV). Clearly indicate your province, reference number, and the name of the local municipality in your application.
Email Application Instructions (by Province)
- Limpopo: MEGP_01_Limpopo@dffe.gov.za
- KwaZulu-Natal: MEGP_02_KwazuluNatal@dffe.gov.za
- Mpumalanga: MEGP_03_Mpumalanga@dffe.gov.za
- Eastern Cape: MEGP_04_EasternCape@dffe.gov.za
- Western Cape: MEGP_05_WesternCape@dffe.gov.za
- Northern Cape: MEGP_06_NorthernCape@dffe.gov.za
- Free State: MEGP_07_FreeState@dffe.gov.za
- North West: MEGP_08_NorthWest@dffe.gov.za
- Gauteng: MEGP_09_HotNWest@dffe.gov.za
Hand-Delivered Applications
Place your hand-delivered application in a clearly marked box with the following details:
- “Local Government Support Unit”
- Reference Number
- Province
- Local Municipality
Submit to:
Chief of the Environment, Forestry, and Fisheries Department Private Bag X447, Pretoria, 0001 Environment House, 473 Steve Biko Road, Arcadia, Pretoria, may also be delivered by hand.
Important Considerations Before Applying
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you don’t hear back within three months after the deadline, consider your application unsuccessful.
- Applicants who already participated in the MEGP or similar programmes will not be considered.
- All qualifications must be SAQA-accredited.
- Successful candidates must be available for interviews and placement where required by the Department.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is this a paid internship?
A: Yes, the programme is part of the Expanded Public Works Programme and includes a stipend, though no additional benefits such as accommodation or transport are provided.
Q: Do I need work experience to apply?
A: No, this opportunity is specifically for graduates with no prior experience in their field of study.
Q: Will this lead to permanent employment?
A: This is a fixed-term contract. While not guaranteed, the experience significantly boosts your employability in both government and private sectors.
The Municipal Environmental Graduate Programme 2025 offers an unmatched opportunity for environmental graduates to build a strong foundation in public sector work. If you’re passionate about climate change, sustainability, and making a real difference in South African communities, this is your chance to act. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your career, gain real experience, and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for our country.
Apply before 21 June 2025 — your environmental journey starts here.
