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Program Assistant Internship in South Africa
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Step into impactful development efforts and contribute to public health programs that are educating and uplifting communities
Are you ready to make a tangible difference in communities facing critical challenges? If so, get ready to embark on a dynamic and multifaceted internship experience where you will assume a central role in organizing and developing programs related to nutrition, psychosocial support, and skills development.
As an integral member on this Program Assistant Internship, your responsibilities will extend to the orchestration of events, workshops, outreach initiatives, and training sessions, fostering an environment conducive to learning and community engagement. Your role may also encompass crucial support in administrative tasks and data management, which will help contribute to the seamless execution of projects. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork, gaining hands-on experience and a true understanding of the practical applications of the initiatives you contribute to.
This comprehensive involvement positions you at the forefront of transformative efforts, where your organizational, administrative, and fieldwork contributions blend together to shape the success of the organization’s endeavors.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop the skills to conceptualize, organize, and implement programs
- Acquire hands-on experience in coordinating events, workshops, outreach initiatives, and training sessions
- Develop the ability to adapt and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world community contexts
- Learn to navigate and respect diverse cultural contexts
ORGANIZATION
Established in 2018 in the the city of Pretoria, South Africa, this forward-thinking organization is dedicated to addressing human challenges through a comprehensive approach that encompasses nutrition and related services, capacity development, and psychosocial support. Their overarching goal is to optimize well-being and, in turn, catalyze the development of African nations.
At the heart of their mission, the organization strategically implements projects that span the domains of nutrition, skills development, and psychosocial support. Through these initiatives, the organization aims to not only alleviate immediate challenges but also create sustainable solutions that foster resilience and empower individuals.
The projects that this organization undertakes serve as catalysts for change, working towards a collective vision where the people within these communities are not only healthy but also equipped with the skills and support needed to thrive and realize their fullest potential.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
As a Program Assistant intern, you will be assigned to coordinate programs related to nutrition, psychosocial support, and skills development. Your exact role will depend on your skills, interests, and the current needs of the organization.
Responsibilities
- Organizing events, workshops, and outreach activities
- Developing presentations for training sessions
- Developing innovative training methods
- Assisting the NGO’s fundraising initiatives
- Assisting in report writing on the projects
- Assisting in fieldwork
- Supporting administrative tasks and data management
Requirements
- Experience and/or background in public health interventions including infant and young child feeding, nutrition education/counseling, and psychosocial support
- Interest in skills development through training
- Strong communication skills
- Efficient research and writing skills
- Passion for working with the less privileged and in resources-limited communities
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
If you are keen to travel to South Africa, you’ll have the choice to stay at a backpackers accommodation or at a guesthouse, both nearby the office. The backpacker choices offer female only and mixed dorm rooms, along with single ensuites which all have access to the swimming pool, braai area, self-catering kitchen, and lounge areas. The guesthouse is an enclosed facility that includes a single room with a smart TV, A/C, mini fridge, and a shared self-catering kitchen. Contact us for prices and availability for either accommodation type.
This internship can also be completed remotely or on a hybrid model, which allows you to work comfortably from home (or anywhere else in the world).
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Be sure to prioritize hydration in the summer (November-February) to avoid heatstroke. South Africa does have high crime rates, so it’s important to be aware and use common sense to stay safe. Some safety guidelines are to always walk in groups, take a taxi/Uber in the evenings, know safe/dangerous areas, secure your belongings, don’t walk around with large sums of cash (you can pay everything with a card), minimize wearing flashy accessories, and be cautious of overly friendly strangers.
Communication
COMMUNICATION
The accommodation offers free Wifi to keep up to date with family and friends via WhatsApp, FaceTime, etc. Most cafes/restaurants offer free Wife as well. You can consider getting a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked, or setting your phone’s status to roaming, depending on your provider’s rates.
Meals
MEALS
Meals are not included in the internship fee. You will need to prepare your own meals in the self-catering kitchen at the accommodation. Be sure to pack a lunch to bring to work, as there are no food options nearby the office.
Location details
Location details
Pretoria offers you a very unique internship experience with its great blend of historical significance, modern vibrancy, and verdant areas. The city’s diverse culinary scene and busy markets add a vibrant flair to your experience, while green areas such as the Rietvlei Nature Reserve and the renowned National Botanical Gardens offer amazing opportunities for outdoor exploration. Also, if you wish to see one of South Africa’s architectural masterpieces, you can go and visit the historical Union Buildings.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Internship start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed with your during the selection process.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
In-person or Hybrid internship: Get in touch for accommodation options and rates
Remote internship
8 weeks USD 595
12 weeks USD 655
16 weeks USD 715
20 weeks USD 775
26 weeks USD 865
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation in a dorm room. If you prefer a single room, please contact us for availability and prices.
- Wifi access
- Guidance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- Development of an Internship Work Plan to help you reach your learning goals
- Onboarding with your supervisor
- Regular check-ins
- Support from the Roots team remotely
- A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
- A reference letter upon request
Exclusions
- Flights to Johannesburg (OR Tambo) International Airport
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Airport transfers (we will provide recommendations of services)
- Transport to the office (we can provide an average daily Uber cost)
- Meals
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in South Africa.
What can I expect from a NGO internship in South Africa?
During your internship in South Africa you can expect to meet people from around the world, as well as indulging yourself into the culture of this beautiful country! If you want to know more about what to expect, make sure to check out our top 7 reasons for an internship in Cape Town.
Will I have time to explore South Africa during my internship?
Yes! We partner with various activity organizers that can offer discounts exclusive to Roots Interns, for example, a road trip through the Garden Route and bungee jumping off the world’s largest natural bungee. You may also explore the country on your own and we are happy to give recommendations.
Am I able to do an internship while on a study program in Cape Town?
Yes! You are able to do a part-time internship with certain organizations so that you can continue your studies, while also gaining valuable work experience.
Will I receive a stipend of any kind during my internship with Roots?
Unfortunately, no. When working with a nonprofit organization, your internship will be unpaid, but there are many ways to fund your internship. Your experience will bring a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for both professional and personal growth that are invaluable!
REVIEWS
My internship was an incredibly enriching and meaningful experience. I had the chance to apply my knowledge in global health, particularly around breastfeeding support, while building practical skills in data analysis, literature review writing, and community engagement. One accomplishment I’m especially proud of was contributing to a review article on the economic value of breastfeeding, which strengthened my scientific writing and deepened my understanding of maternal and child health. Working remotely with such a passionate and supportive team showed me how impactful research can be when paired with real-world health interventions. This experience has been a major stepping stone toward my goal of becoming a field epidemiologist and affirmed my desire to work with NGOs that improve community well-being.
Xinyi, Chinese – University of California, Davis
Health & Nutrition Research Internship, Remote
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Pretoria, South Africa OR Remote
PROGRAM FOCUS: Health and Nutrition NGO
TASK FOCUS: Program Development, Coordination, Fundraising, Outreach, Reporting
LENGTH: Min. 8 weeks
COST: From USD 595 (remote)
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Take the lead in coordinating programs
- Engage in a variety of tasks that enhance your overall facilitation skill set
- Showcase your creativity by developing innovative training methods
- Contribute to the efficient functioning of the organization’s fieldwork
- Travel to South Africa or intern remotely from home
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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