x15 Internships at Department of International Relations and Cooperation (24-months Contract)

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) invites dynamic and confident South African youth to apply for its 2025-2027 General Internships. This is a unique opportunity for recent graduates to gain valuable experience and insight into South Africa’s foreign policy and international relations.

Internship Details

• Number of Positions Available: 15
• Duration: 24 months (2 years)
• Location: O R Tambo Building, Pretoria
• Monthly Stipend: R7 450.63
• Fields of Study:
  • Tourism & Hospitality Management
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Records Management/Information Science
  • Graphic Design & Communications
  • Human Resource Management
  • Public Administration

About the General Internships

DIRCO’s General Internship Programme is a two-year (24 months) initiative aimed at providing unemployed graduates with practical work experience in a dynamic and challenging environment. The programme will run from 2025 to 2027, and successful applicants will be placed at the DIRCO Head Office located at the O R Tambo Building in Pretoria.

The programme’s main objective is to equip interns with relevant skills that will increase their employability in the public and private sectors. Interns will receive guidance from experienced professionals and have the chance to contribute to the Department’s core mission of promoting South Africa’s national interests, advancing the African Agenda, and fostering global cooperation.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 18 to 35 years old at the closing date of applications.
• Citizenship: Only South African citizens are eligible.
• Educational Qualification: Minimum of an NQF level 7 qualification, which typically corresponds to a Bachelor’s Degree or an Advanced Diploma.
• First-Time Applicants: Only candidates who have not previously participated in a Cadet, Internship, or Learnership Programme will be considered

Requirements

DIRCO seeks individuals who demonstrate:

• Customer Focus and Responsiveness: Ability to address the needs of internal and external stakeholders with urgency and professionalism.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to work effectively with others and build professional relationships.
• Communication Skills: Proficiency in both verbal and written communication is essential.
• Information Gathering and Analytical Skills: Capacity to research, analyze, and present data in a coherent manner.
• Sense of Responsibility and Initiative: Self-motivated individuals who take ownership of their tasks and contribute positively.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to think critically and propose viable solutions.
• Computer Literacy: Competency in standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).

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How to Apply

Interested applicants must complete the online application form using the following link: Apply Here.

Required Documents:

1. Z83 Form (Application for Employment)
2. Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Certified Copy of ID
4. Certified Copies of All Academic Transcripts

Note: If you do not receive feedback within six months of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.

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Selection Process and Expectations

Successful candidates must be willing to sign an Oath of Secrecy and a Cadet Programme Contract/Agreement with the Department. Applicants will also undergo the following processes:

1. Verification of Citizenship: Only South African citizens will be considered.
2. Reference Checks: Contact details for at least two references should be provided.
3. Security Vetting: All shortlisted candidates will undergo a thorough background check.
4. Technical Assessments: Candidates will complete assessments relevant to their area of study and competencies.
5. Interviews: Applicants must be available for interviews at a predetermined time, date, and location.

Additional Information

• Transport and Accommodation: Interns must arrange their own transportation and accommodation as placements will be based in Pretoria.
• Foreign Qualifications: If you hold a foreign qualification, you must submit an evaluation certificate from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Read more: Maximize Your Internship Success – 3 Essential Tips and Strategies

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation Internships offer a unique platform for young South African graduates to immerse themselves in the field of international relations and contribute to the nation’s global diplomacy efforts. With a structured two-year programme, participants will gain critical work experience, build professional networks, and enhance their understanding of public administration.

By opening doors to diverse career paths, this internship programme stands as a testament to DIRCO’s commitment to developing the country’s future leaders.