Are you an unemployed graduate looking for an opportunity to gain real-world experience? The Kagiso Trust Graduate Internship Programme offers young South Africans aged 18–35 the chance to build valuable career skills and make a meaningful impact on society. This 12-month internship programme, running from 2025, is an excellent opportunity for graduates to gain hands-on experience in a wide range of fields, including Socio-Economic Development, Policy, Information Technology (IT), Human Resources (HR), Finance, Education, and Communications.
Overview of Internship Roles and Opportunities
The Kagiso Trust Graduate Internship Programme provides work-based exposure across various departments. Interns will have the chance to work alongside professionals, gaining valuable skills in their field while contributing to community development initiatives. Here’s an overview of the available internship roles and what you can expect from each position.
1. Socio-Economic Development Intern
Ref: SED2025JHB
This internship will provide exposure to work within the socio-economic development sector, offering an opportunity to contribute to sustainable community growth. The key responsibilities and performance areas include:
- Impact Fund Management: Assist in managing the allocation of funds to projects that aim to address socio-economic challenges.
- Socio-Economic Programme Design and Implementation: Support the development and rollout of socio-economic development programmes aimed at empowering communities.
- Business Support: Assist small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) through training, mentorship, and resources to help them grow and become self-sustaining.
- SMME Policy Analysis: Contribute to understanding and analyzing policies that affect small businesses and entrepreneurs in South Africa.
- Stakeholder Management: Engage with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profits, and business owners, to coordinate efforts towards socio-economic development.
Qualifications:
- Grade 12/NQF 4 certificate
- A qualification in Agricultural Economics or Agricultural Studies
- Certified copy of ID, academic transcript, and motivation letter
Required Skills:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Attention to detail and an eagerness to learn
- Ability to manage multiple tasks
- Basic computer skills
2. Programme Management & Research Intern
Ref: PMR2024JHB
The Programme Management and Research Internship provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the strategic and operational aspects of various development programmes. Interns will engage in the following:
- Administering Programme Documentation: Document the processes and outcomes of projects and programmes under Kagiso Trust.
- Conducting Research: Research emerging trends and issues related to Kagiso Trust’s programmes, providing reports and articles based on findings.
- Monitoring Trends: Stay updated on global and national developments that may impact Kagiso Trust’s work.
- Participating in Programme Evaluation: Support efforts to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of programmes and provide insights for improvement.
Qualifications:
- Grade 12/NQF 4 certificate
- Degree or Diploma in Project Management, Development Studies, Social Sciences, or a related field
Required Skills:
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
- Basic computer skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
3. Policy Development Intern
Ref: PD2025JHB
Interns in this role will gain hands-on experience in policy development and advocacy. Responsibilities will include:
- Tracking Legislative and Policy Developments: Monitor policy developments in South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
- Engaging Stakeholders: Coordinate with stakeholders to advocate for policy changes that support socio-economic development.
- Drafting Policy Documents: Assist in drafting key policy documents and reports for review and advocacy.
- Reporting: Compile monthly and quarterly reports on policy developments and advocacy efforts.
Qualifications:
- Grade 12/NQF 4 certificate
- Degree in Development Policy, Political Science, Economics, or a related Humanities/Social Sciences qualification
Required Skills:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong research, analytical, and organizational skills
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
- Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office)
4. Local Government Support Intern
Ref: LGS2025JHB
Interns in this role will focus on supporting local government initiatives and gaining experience in public sector projects. Key responsibilities include:
- Project Management: Assist in managing local government projects aimed at improving public service delivery.
- Revenue Management: Support initiatives related to revenue collection and financial management within local government.
- Data Collection and Management: Assist in collecting, organizing, and managing data for various government projects.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with various stakeholders involved in government projects to ensure smooth execution.
Qualifications:
- Grade 12/NQF 4 certificate
- A qualification in Project Management or a related field
Required Skills:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to prioritize tasks and work under pressure
- Basic computer skills
5. Information Technology (IT) Intern
Ref: ICT2025JHB
This internship is ideal for graduates with a passion for technology and IT systems. Interns will be involved in:
- End-User Training Support: Assist in setting up and providing training to end-users on various software and IT systems.
- System Performance Monitoring: Help in monitoring the performance of systems and ensuring they are running smoothly.
- Database Management: Manage and update databases as part of the IT support team.
- Hardware and Software Maintenance: Assist in maintaining IT hardware and software systems within the organisation.
Qualifications:
- Grade 12/NQF 4 certificate
- Diploma or Degree in Computer Science, IT, or IT Systems Management
Required Skills:
- Strong IT and database management skills
- Good communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
6. Human Resources (HR) Intern
Ref: HR2025JHB
The HR internship provides exposure to all areas of human resource management, including:
- HR Administration: Assist with the administration of staff files, payroll processing, and other HR functions.
- Training and Development: Collate training data, organize training sessions, and prepare induction materials for new employees.
- Recruitment: Assist in preparing interview packs and coordinating interviews for new hires.
- Employee Relations: Help in organizing staff events and supporting the HR team in various activities.
Qualifications:
- Grade 12/NQF 4 certificate
- National Diploma or Degree in Human Resources or a related field
Required Skills:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Attention to detail and ability to maintain confidentiality
- Basic computer skills (Word, Excel)
7. Finance Intern
Ref: FIN2025JHB
This internship provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in financial management and accounting. Key responsibilities include:
- Accounts Management: Assist in the capturing of payments, receipts, and asset management.
- Audit Preparation: Help prepare documents for audit purposes, ensuring all invoices and financial records are in order.
- Internal Control Systems: Assist in updating and maintaining the internal control systems and risk registers.
Qualifications:
- Grade 12/NQF 4 certificate
- BCom Accounting or a related qualification
Required Skills:
- Strong attention to detail and financial acumen
- Basic computer skills (Excel, accounting software)
- Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
Why Apply?
The Kagiso Trust Graduate Internship Programme offers many benefits to young graduates, including:
- Skills Development: Interns receive training and development in real-world work environments.
- Networking Opportunities: Interns will be exposed to a wide range of stakeholders, including government bodies, non-profits, and private sector organizations.
- Career Advancement: The internship provides a stepping stone to permanent employment in various fields such as public service, non-profit, private sector, or entrepreneurship.
- Workplace Exposure: Interns gain hands-on experience that strengthens their CV and enhances employability in their respective fields.
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How to Apply
- Choose the right internship role based on your qualification and career interests.
- Prepare your application documents:
- Certified copies of your ID, academic transcript, and qualifications
- A short CV that highlights relevant skills and achievements
- A detailed motivational letter explaining why you are interested in the role and how it aligns with your career goals (minimum three pages)
- Submit your application: Email your documents to recruitment@kagiso.co.za. Ensure the reference number of the internship is in the subject line.
- Wait for feedback: If selected, you will be contacted for an interview. Keep an eye on your email for updates.
The Kagiso Trust Graduate Internship Programme is an invaluable opportunity for young South African graduates to kickstart their careers and gain essential work experience in fields such as Socio-Economic Development, Policy, IT, Finance, HR, and more. By offering a structured 12-month internship, this programme equips graduates with hands-on skills, knowledge, and professional exposure, all while contributing to meaningful community development projects.
