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Refugee Research Internship in South Africa
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
An opportunity to research issues of the migratory phenomenon across Africa.
If you have research skills and a passion for human rights, this Refugee Research Internship is your chance to make an impact where it really counts. You’ll be interning with the Scalabrini Institute for Human Mobility (SIHMA) in Cape Town to help realize their vision: “An Africa where the human rights of people on the move are ensured and their dignity is promoted”
Through publishing their scientifically researched journals and reports, SIHMA raises awareness and advocates legislative change for migrants in South Africa. As part of their team, interns help to strengthen rights and improve integration of asylum-seekers, refugees, and diasporic communities.
And, of course, SIHMA provides a fruitful exchange for their interns too. You’ll gain valuable experience in Human Rights work and academic publishing, professional development in scientific research and data-analysis, and unique insight into the running of an NGO. From writing up key findings to conducting interviews to managing databases; there are a bounty of opportunities for interns to take advantage of.
ORGANIZATION
Founded in 2014, the Scalabrini Institute for Human Mobility in Africa (SIHMA) is a Cape Town based research institute advocating for the rights of migrants, asylum seekers and refugees. Their mission is to conduct and disseminate research that contributes to the understanding of human mobility and informs the policies that ensure the rights of people on the move. As part of a large network of secular nonprofit organizations, SIHMA has partnerships in over 30 countries, strong visibility, and produces vital research into the plight of refugees and migrants.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Responsibilities
As an intern you may assist in a range of projects across research, communication, and administration. Tasks may include but are not limited to:
- Carry out literature reviews and identify relevant academic and policy sources
- Assist with qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis
- Draft research-based articles and reports
- Translate academic findings into accessible content such as infographics, keynotes, or short videos
- Assist with social media & communications: e.g. content creation (videos, keynotes, infographics, short articles) for social media, website and partner platforms
- Support the dissemination of research through public education outputs
- Take part in forums and workshops for stakeholders
- Assist with logistics and planning for workshops or stakeholder events
- Maintain databases and help manage internal records
Requirements
- Enrolled in or recently graduated from a relevant field such as Migration Studies, Human Rights, Political Science, Law, Journalism, or Development
- Familiarity with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods
- Experience with social media management or content creation is an advantage
- Strong writing and communication skills in English
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
- Committed to social justice and respectful of cultural diversity
- Must have valid health and liability insurance for the full internship period
- A police clearance certificate or signed affidavit is required before starting the internship
- Should demonstrate professionalism including punctuality, appropriate dress, and active participation
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
As an intern in Cape Town, you’ll have the choice between three different accommodations. With dorm and single room options, you can opt for the lodging option that meets your needs and budget. All locations include Wifi, linens & towels, communal areas, shared facilities, 24/7 security, laundry services, and housekeeping. Each option is conveniently located to be walking distance from various shops, cafes, restaurants, and some of the touristy highlights Cape Town has to offer as well. You’ll have the opportunity to meet a variety of travelers, including students & backpackers, and explore the wonders of the city – while being based in the heart of it all.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. During your placement, you’ll have access to the Roots team remotely, along with your internship supervisor on the ground.
South Africa does have high crime rates, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. Safety recommendations include: do not walk anywhere alone and do not walk anywhere at night – it’s better to Uber, no matter the distance, even if you are in a group. Upon arrival, ask your accommodation about the safe/dangerous areas & streets that are nearby. Keep your belongings close to you (avoid using handbags), always keep an eye on your drinks when out socializing, don’t walk around with large sums of cash (you can pay for everything with a card), minimize wearing flashy accessories, and be cautious of overly friendly strangers. Take extra precautions at night by staying in a group and always taking an Uber once the sun goes down.
Communication
Communication
Your accommodation will include free Wifi to keep family and friends up to date via WhatsApp, Zoom, etc. Most cafes/restaurants also offer free Wifi for remote work days and staying online. You can also consider getting a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked for international carrier, or setting your phone’s status to roaming (be aware of high charges for this option).
Meals
Meals
Meals are NOT included at the accommodation options in Cape Town. The kitchen facilities vary at each location and details will be provided during the application process. With a variety of international cuisine options available in the area and throughout Cape Town, there is no shortage of restaurants, bars, and cafes to try out.
Location details
Location details
Discover Cape Town’s attractions: Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Gardens, city tours, historical sites, and the Cape Point Peninsula. There are also opportunities to surf, kayak, paraglide, cage dive with sharks, and more! Cape Town has a mediterranean climate with cool winters and hot summers so be sure to check what the temperature will be like during your stay.
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 (2025 rates)
20 weeks USD 3,273
26 weeks USD 3,987
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 mixed-gender dorm room (up to 6 pax). If you prefer a smaller dorm size, female-only dorm, or single room – please contact us for availability and prices.
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Wifi access
- Housekeeping service
- 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
- A discount on weekend activities, exclusive to Roots Interns
Exclusions
- Flights to Cape Town International Airport
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Meals
- Transport to the office
- 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 time in Cape Town has awakened me to take notice of the problems South Africa faces regarding migrant and refugee rights. It’s truly been a reality check. The articles about problems in different parts of the world regarding refugees and migrants have become more of a general statement in the everyday newspaper. When I started my internship, I was suddenly sitting across from people with real problems and asking for help, which can be quite confronting. If I look at the impact I can personally make, it would be no more than at a micro-level. I can only make a difference in a one-on-one situation for the person who is sitting directly in front of me. This often means that I make clients aware of the importance of certain documents that they need in order to help them further. However, I also call schools to explain someone’s situation resulting in a child being able to get access to education the next day. If you hear that your effort made things work out, it gives you a feeling of satisfaction.
Emiel, Belgian – University of Antwerp
Advocacy & Human Rights Internship, South Africa
This internship has been unforgettable and has played a large role in my professional development. The people I worked with are passionate about supporting students and are driven to achieve the most positive outcomes for the beneficiaries of the project. I helped teach Digital Literacy training and prepare migrant/refugee students for specialized degree programs, along with assisting with employment access and professional development of students who have completed their degrees. I gained a lot of experience and knowledge from my internship in Cape Town, which is something I would not have learned from a classroom setting. I plan to continue working in the nonprofit sector in my career. This internship showed me the background of how organizations are run and the kind of admin needed for success.
Prajna, South African – George Washington University
Migrant & Refugee Charity Internship, South Africa
I loved what I did during my internship through my office-based assignments focused on refugee empowerment and research. I was finally able to use the skills I had gained during my studies to do something important, and I was developing myself in the process as well. I learned many new things that I know will come in handy in all aspects of adult life. Furthermore, I gained valuable experience in both research as well as in working with an NGO. Working with this organization gave a good perspective on how things work within a nonprofit and that was very valuable for me. As they work with a vulnerable population, I developed important skills such as how to talk about sensitive things and communicate with people who don't speak your language. Always being busy with different tasks was interesting and allowed me to learn various new skills which made the whole experience very rewarding. I was in Cape Town for five months, and it was one of the best times of my life. I learned so many new things, and made many great friends for life! I definitely recommend doing an internship with Roots, as you’ll be guaranteed to have a good time and add an interesting experience to your resume!
Lola, Dutch – Maastricht University
Migrant & Refugee Charity Internship, South Africa
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Cape Town, South Africa
PROGRAM FOCUS: Social NGO
TASK FOCUS: Research, Data Analysis, Reporting
LENGTH: 5-6 months
COST: From USD 3,273
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Develop your research skills while working in a nonprofit context
- Get practical experience with human rights work and academic publishing
- Gain insight into legislative and policy reform and its proper implementation
- Meet, work with, and support migrants, refugees and diasporic communities
- Live and work in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Cape Town
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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