Internship Opportunity 2025 International Relations, Stakeholder Management and Capacity Building

Introduction

2025 International Relations Internships are vital stepping stones for graduates who want to build practical skills and transition into professional careers. In South Africa, government internships provide young people with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to national development while gaining valuable workplace experience.

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has announced an internship for 2025 under the Chief Directorate: International Relations, Stakeholder Management and Capacity Building. This opportunity is not only a chance to grow professionally but also to play a role in shaping international and local engagement strategies for a department committed to advancing equality and human rights.

If you hold a qualification in International Relations or Political Sciences, this internship provides the platform to explore policy, diplomacy, and stakeholder engagement within the South African context.

Key Details of the Internship

• Programme: International Relations, Stakeholder Management and Capacity Building
• Reference Number: DWYPD/MERC02/2025
• Duration: 24 Months (fixed term)
• Centre: Pretoria, Gauteng
• Stipend: R7 860 per month
• Closing Date: 29 September 2025 at 16:00

This is a full-time internship designed to provide graduates with structured work exposure.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for this internship, candidates must meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Qualification
   • A National Diploma or Degree in:
     • International Relations, or
     • Political Sciences
2. Skills and Attributes
   • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
   • Ability to analyse and understand international relations policies.
   • Good interpersonal skills to manage stakeholder relationships.
   • Willingness to learn and adapt to government protocols.
   • Research and analytical skills for policy evaluation.

This internship targets graduates who are motivated to pursue careers in diplomacy, governance, and international policy-making.

About the Chief Directorate: International Relations, Stakeholder Management and Capacity Building

The Chief Directorate plays a critical role in building South Africa’s capacity to engage effectively at both national and international levels. Its focus areas include:

• International Relations: Engaging with global partners to strengthen South Africa’s role in advancing gender equality, youth empowerment, and disability inclusion.
• Stakeholder Management: Coordinating with local and international stakeholders, including NGOs, community groups, and multilateral organisations.
• Capacity Building: Developing programmes that enhance the skills and capabilities of stakeholders to achieve sustainable outcomes.

For interns, this means exposure to the complexities of government-to-government cooperation, multilateral agreements, and cross-sector partnerships.

Duties and Learning Opportunities

Although the official advertisement does not provide detailed responsibilities, typical duties for interns in this directorate may include:

• Supporting research on international agreements and bilateral relations.
• Assisting in preparing briefing documents, reports, and presentations for meetings.
• Coordinating with stakeholders to ensure smooth communication and partnership development.
• Assisting in organising conferences, workshops, and international visits.
• Monitoring progress on international commitments and providing administrative support.
• Learning how to align departmental programmes with international development goals such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

These duties will give interns a solid understanding of how policy and diplomacy operate at the intersection of government and international platforms.

Stipend and Benefits

Interns will receive a monthly stipend of R7 860. While this amount is primarily intended to support basic living expenses, the true value lies in the professional exposure offered.

Benefits include:

• Hands-on experience in international relations and stakeholder management.
• Networking opportunities with government officials, foreign diplomats, and civil society leaders.
• Skill development in diplomacy, negotiation, and capacity building.
• An opportunity to contribute to initiatives that impact women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

This stipend ensures that graduates can focus on learning and building their careers without financial strain.

Application Process

Candidates can submit applications through one of the following official channels:

1. By Post

Address to:
The Director-General
Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Private Bag X931
Pretoria, 0001

2. By Hand Delivery

Deliver to:
268 Lilian Ngoyi Street
Fedsure Forum Building, 1st Floor
Pretoria CBD

3. By Email

Send to: [email protected]

When applying by email:

• Quote the correct job title and reference number in the subject line.
• Attach a Z83 form and CV only in PDF format as one combined document.
• Ensure the email attachment does not exceed 15 MB.
• JPEG or picture-format applications will not be accepted.
• Incorrect submissions will lead to disqualification.

Required Documentation

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

• Completed and signed Z83 Application Form (available at any government department or online).
• A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) with updated contact details.
• Certified copies of ID and qualifications will be requested if shortlisted.

Enquiries

• Technical Enquiries: Ms Sarah Mabizela – Tel: (012) 359 0075
• General Enquiries:
  • Ms Lerato Segodi – Tel: (012) 359 0073
  • Mr Amukelani Misunwa – Tel: (012) 359 0240

Why International Relations and Stakeholder Management Matter

In today’s interconnected world, international cooperation is essential for addressing issues such as gender equality, youth unemployment, and disability inclusion. South Africa’s role in global platforms requires skilled professionals who can represent the nation’s interests while building inclusive policies at home.

Stakeholder management ensures that policies are not developed in isolation but reflect the needs of diverse groups, including marginalised communities. Capacity building strengthens institutions and individuals to deliver results that last.

An internship in this space allows graduates to learn first-hand how diplomacy, governance, and development intersect.

Career Pathways After the Internship

Completing this internship can open career opportunities in:

• Government departments and foreign affairs.
• International organisations such as the African Union and United Nations.
• Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in advocacy and policy.
• Think tanks and research institutions focusing on governance and diplomacy.
• Private sector firms engaged in corporate international relations or public policy.

Graduates who complete this internship will be well-positioned for roles such as:

• Policy Analyst
• International Relations Officer
• Stakeholder Engagement Specialist
• Capacity Building Coordinator
• Researcher in Governance and Development

Tips for a Strong Application

1. Tailor Your CV: Highlight academic achievements, research projects, or voluntary work in international relations or political science.
2. Emphasise Skills: Show evidence of communication, analytical, and organisational skills.
3. Be Professional: Ensure all documents are neat, clear, and error-free.
4. Apply Early: Submit applications well before the closing date to avoid disqualification.
5. Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to answer questions such as:
   • How do you see South Africa’s role in international relations?
   • What is the importance of stakeholder management in governance?
   • Which global issues do you think South Africa should prioritise?

Key Takeaways

• Position: Intern – International Relations, Stakeholder Management and Capacity Building
• Reference Number: DWYPD/MERC02/2025
• Centre: Pretoria
• Duration: 24 months
• Stipend: R7 860 per month
• Requirements: Diploma/Degree in International Relations or Political Sciences
• Closing Date: 29 September 2025 at 16:00
• Application Method: Post, hand delivery, or email (PDF only, max 15 MB)

Conclusion

The 2025 Internship in International Relations, Stakeholder Management and Capacity Building at the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities offers a rare opportunity for graduates to gain practical exposure in a field that bridges local development with international cooperation.

This internship is more than a career stepping stone; it is a platform to contribute to shaping policies that empower women, youth, and persons with disabilities, while also preparing yourself for a future in governance, diplomacy, or advocacy.

If you have a qualification in International Relations or Political Sciences and a passion for meaningful change, this is the opportunity to apply your skills, gain practical experience, and contribute to South Africa’s national and global development goals.

Thabang Seleka

Thabang Seleka is the Founder of Sseta Careers, an independent platform that provides verified information on learnerships, bursaries, and internships in South Africa. He focuses on delivering clear, accurate guidance to help job seekers make informed career decisions. Contact: [email protected]