Program Assistant Internship in South Africa

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Step into impactful community development and help organize and develop programs related to nutrition, psychosocial support, and skills development.

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 of this 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 also 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 the city of Pretoria, South Africa, in the year 2018, 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

You will be assigned to coordinate programs related to nutrition, psychosocial support, and skills development.

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.
  • Skills in grant proposal writing and report writing.
  • Interest in working with the less privileged and in resources-limited communities.

WHERE YOU’LL STAY

More information on the accommodation be come.

This internship can also be done as a remote internship, 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 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 Wi-Fi to keep family and friends up to date via WhatsApp, Zoom, etc. Cafes/restaurants also offer free Wi-Fi. You can also 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 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 (2024 rates)


8 weeks USD TBC

12 weeks USD TBC

16 weeks USD TBC

20 weeks USD TBC

24 weeks USD TBC


Remote internship: USD 525

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
  • Assistance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
  • An orientation program with your supervisor
  • Supervision and support during your stay
  • Regular check-ins during your internship with your supervisor
  • Troubleshooting if needed
  • A reference letter at the end of your internship

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
  • Transport to the office
  • Meals, drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
  • Costs for additional excursions or activities
SCHOLARSHIP & FUNDING

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!

QUICK FACTS

LOCATION: Pretoria, South Africa OR Remote
PROGRAM FOCUS: Health and Nutrition NGO
TASK FOCUS: Program Development, Coordination, Fundraising, Outreach, Reporting
LENGTH: 8-26 Weeks
COST: USD 525 (remote) / From USD TBC (in-person)

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Take the lead in coordinating programs that directly address the critical challenges faced by communities in need.
  • Engage in a variety of tasks that enhance your skill set and contribute to the seamless execution of projects.
  • Showcase your creativity by developing innovative training methods that add value to the NGO’s capacity development initiatives.
  • Contribute to the efficient functioning of the organization by providing crucial support in administrative tasks and data management.
  • Experience the satisfaction of knowing that your organizational, administrative, and fieldwork contributions seamlessly blend together to shape the success of the organization’s transformative endeavors.
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.

GET STARTED

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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