The IEC is inviting qualified candidates to apply for its Internship Programme. This opportunity is ideal for young graduates who have not previously participated in an internship and want to gain experience.
IEC Internship Programme Now Open for Applications
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), a Chapter 9 institution mandated to ensure free and fair elections, is inviting qualified candidates to apply for its Internship Programme. This opportunity is ideal for young graduates who have not previously worked in their field of study or participated in an internship.
The IEC is committed to promoting equity and encourages applications from persons with disabilities.
Outreach Internship – Western Cape
Contract Duration: 24 months
Stipend: R10 441.14 per month
About the Internship
The IEC is responsible for managing national, provincial and local government elections, including municipal by-elections. This internship offers graduates hands-on exposure to the work done by the Commission, with a specific focus on Outreach. Interns may also be required to support electoral operations and corporate services when needed.
The successful candidate will report to the Assistant Manager: Outreach.
Key Performance Areas
Civic and Democracy Education:
• Support civic and democracy education projects and voter registration initiatives.
• Assist with youth-focused outreach activities and community engagements.
• Help coordinate meetings, workshops and stakeholder engagements.
• Monitor activities and compile reports.
Communication:
• Assist in drafting and implementing the provincial Communication Plan, with a focus on youth engagement.
• Maintain an updated provincial media database.
• Monitor media enquiries and assist with drafting media statements.
• Support the preparation and coordination of media briefings and interviews.
Research:
• Conduct research on electoral processes and socio-economic factors affecting democracy.
• Explore improved approaches to civic and democracy education, especially youth participation.
• Identify topics for Thought Leadership seminars and draft proposals and presentations.
Finance & Administration:
• Assist with finance-related documentation and general office administration.
• Provide support with HR administrative tasks for permanent, temporary and electoral staff.
General Administrative Duties:
• Compile reports, record minutes and prepare proposals.
• Handle routine enquiries and organise documents for stakeholders.
• Assist with meetings, events, presentations and record-keeping.
• Support project-related tasks and office correspondence.
Minimum Requirements
• Matric/Grade 12/N3/NTC Level 4.
• A completed 3-year Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma in Public Management, Humanities, Communication/Journalism, Law or Political Studies.
• A postgraduate qualification will be an added advantage.
• Must be a registered voter with knowledge of the region’s geography, languages and socio-economic context.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Research and data analysis ability, with the skill to identify trends and produce well-structured reports.
• Computer literacy in MS Office, with strong proficiency in MS Excel.
• Ability to use research tools and digital platforms.
Additional Attributes
• Ability to work under pressure and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work long hours and travel extensively.
• Proactive, confident and service-driven.
• Commitment to the values of constitutional democracy.
Application Requirements
Applications must include:
• A recent, updated CV.
• Certified copies of qualifications.
• Certified copy of ID.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews.
The IEC may decide not to fill the position and may withdraw or re-advertise the post based on organisational needs.
Please Note:
• Applicants must be 35 years or younger.
• Applicants must not have previously worked in their field of study or been part of any internship programme.
• All applicants will undergo a risk assessment.