Are you a recent graduate looking for an opportunity to gain practical experience in your field of study? The HSRC Internship Programme is designed to equip unemployed graduates with the necessary skills and work experience to transition smoothly into the job market. This prestigious internship offers valuable mentorship, exposure to research management, and opportunities to work in Science, Engineering and Technology (SET), Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS), as well as Research Development and Innovation.
What is the HSRC Internship Programme?
The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Internship Programme is a structured initiative aimed at:
- Providing practical work experience to unemployed graduates.
- Bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application.
- Enhancing employability through mentorship and skills transfer.
- Preparing interns for careers in research, innovation, and technology.
The internship is offered for 24 months and includes a monthly stipend to support participants throughout their training.
Who Can Apply?
The HSRC Internship Programme is open to South African citizens and permanent residents who meet the following criteria:
Eligibility Requirements
- Unemployed and 35 years of age or younger at the time of appointment.
- Holds a qualification at NQF Level 7 to 9 from a DHET-accredited higher education institution.
- Qualification must be in Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET), Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS), or Research, Development, and Innovation fields.
- Must have completed their studies at the time of application.
Who is NOT Eligible?
- Candidates with a Diploma below NQF Level 7 or a PhD at NQF Level 10.
- Candidates enrolled full-time in another qualification during the internship.
- Registered Doctoral (PhD, DPhil, DTech) students.
- Past beneficiaries of DSI-NRF or DSI-HSRC Internship Programmes.
- Candidates who hold DSI-funded scholarships or bursaries during the internship year.
Host Institutions: Who Can Apply to Host Interns?
The HSRC Internship Programme also invites institutions to host interns. To qualify, host institutions must:
- Be in the fields of Science, Engineering, Technology, Research, Development, Innovation, Humanities, or Social Sciences.
- Provide mentorship and training by assigning an experienced staff member as a mentor.
- Offer interns access to workstations, computers, and remote working platforms.
- Participate in mentorship forums and training programmes provided by the HSRC.
Recommended for you: Write a CV for Internships: How to Stand Out with Limited Experience
Application Process
The HSRC follows a structured recruitment process:
Step 1: Call for Host Institutions
- Institutions express their interest in hosting interns by submitting intern profile requests.
Step 2: Call for Graduate Applications
- Graduates are invited to submit their applications online.
Step 3: Matching Process
- Successful host institutions receive access to an intern portal where they can identify suitable candidates.
Step 4: Interview and Selection
- Hosts shortlist and interview candidates to find the best match for their organisation.
Step 5: Verification and Appointment
- HSRC verifies eligibility and finalises the appointment of successful candidates.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 18 February 2025
- Applications Close: 17 March 2025
How to Apply
- If you’re a host institution, apply here.
- If you’re a graduate, apply here.
- Visit the User FAQs tab for more details.
Also check: Momentum Life Skills Development Internship Programme 2025
Contact Details
For any inquiries related to the programme or application process, you can reach out via:
Email: DSI_HSRC_Internship.queries@hsrc.ac.za
Queries Response Centre Contacts:
- Lusanda Noqoko: 012 302 2109
- Zintle Mxoli: 012 302 2011
- Bongile Mbilana: 012 302 2071
- Lawrence Makgae: 012 302 2287
The HSRC Internship Programme is an excellent opportunity for graduates to gain real-world experience, receive structured mentorship, and enhance their employability in Science, Technology, Research, and Social Sciences. Whether you’re a graduate looking for career advancement or a host institution aiming to nurture future professionals, this programme is the perfect platform.
Apply before 17 March 2025 and take the first step towards a successful career.
