Job Description

SANBI Calls for Young Wildlife Professionals Internship Programme 2026/2027

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is inviting unemployed South African youth to apply for the Young Wildlife Professionals Internship Programme for the 2026/2027 intake. This internship programme provides valuable workplace experience within South Africa’s biodiversity and wildlife conservation sector and is aimed at developing the next generation of wildlife professionals.

This exciting opportunity is ideal for graduates and young professionals who are passionate about biodiversity conservation, wildlife management, environmental sustainability, and natural resource protection.

Internship Overview

Organisation: South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)

Programme: Young Wildlife Professionals Internship

Duration: July 2026 – June 2027

Location: South Africa

Programme Type: Internship

Target Group: Unemployed South African Youth

About the Internship

The Young Wildlife Professionals Internship Programme forms part of SANBI’s commitment to developing skills within the biodiversity and conservation sector. The programme aims to provide practical workplace experience and professional development opportunities to young South Africans interested in wildlife conservation and environmental management careers.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be South African citizens
• Be between 18 and 35 years of age
• Be unemployed
• Be available for the full internship duration from July 2026 to June 2027
• Meet the qualification requirements specified by SANBI for the advertised internship fields
• Have a passion for biodiversity conservation and wildlife management careers.

Skills and Competencies

Successful candidates should demonstrate:

• Interest in biodiversity conservation
• Good communication skills
• Ability to work independently and within a team
• Professional work ethic
• Commitment to environmental sustainability
• Strong organisational and administrative skills
• Willingness to learn and gain practical experience

Benefits of the Programme

• Practical workplace experience
• Exposure to biodiversity and conservation projects
• Professional mentorship and development
• Industry-relevant skills development
• Opportunity to build a career in the environmental and wildlife sector
• Networking opportunities within the conservation industry.

Who Should Apply?

This internship is suitable for:

• Wildlife Management graduates
• Nature Conservation graduates
• Environmental Science graduates
• Biodiversity Management graduates
• Ecology graduates
• Conservation professionals seeking practical experience
• Young South Africans interested in wildlife and environmental careers

How to Apply

Applicants should visit the official SANBI careers portal and complete the online application process. Ensure that all required supporting documents are submitted before the closing date indicated on the official advert.

Why Choose SANBI?

SANBI is one of South Africa’s leading biodiversity institutions responsible for research, conservation, environmental management, and biodiversity monitoring. The organisation plays a critical role in developing future conservation leaders and environmental professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply for the SANBI Young Wildlife Professionals Internship?

South African citizens aged between 18 and 35 who meet the qualification requirements and are unemployed may apply.

How long is the internship programme?

The programme runs from July 2026 until June 2027.

Is work experience required?

The programme is designed to provide workplace exposure and practical experience to young professionals entering the conservation sector.

What sector does the internship focus on?

The programme focuses on biodiversity conservation, wildlife management, environmental sustainability, and related fields.

Where can I apply?

Applications must be submitted through the official SANBI website.