The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) is offering an exceptional opportunity for unemployed South African graduates through its HSRC Internship Programme 2025-27. This initiative is designed to provide young professionals with practical work experience in Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET), Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS), Research Development, and Innovation.
With a strong focus on capacity development, mentorship, and career readiness, this internship offers not only financial support but also professional guidance that can significantly enhance a graduate’s employability.
About the HSRC Internship Programme
The HSRC Internship Programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world professional experience. It is a structured initiative that offers graduates the chance to work under the guidance of experienced professionals in various research and development institutions.
Key Objectives of the Programme
The programme aims to:
- Develop and expand the pool of skilled professionals within South Africa’s National System of Innovation (NSI).
- Provide graduates and postgraduates with relevant work experience in SET and HSS fields, increasing their employability.
- Encourage graduates to participate in research and innovation projects, inspiring careers in the NSI.
- Build research management capacity at higher education and research institutions across South Africa.
- Promote equitable access to learning and development opportunities, particularly among marginalized groups.
This initiative aligns with South Africa’s national strategy to strengthen innovation, enhance research capabilities, and address the country’s skills shortage.
Who Can Apply?
The HSRC Internship Programme is open to unemployed graduates who meet the following criteria:
- South African Citizenship or Permanent Residency – Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents with valid South African Identity Documents.
- Age Requirement – Applicants must be 35 years or younger at the time of appointment to the internship programme.
- Academic Qualifications – Applicants must hold a qualification between NQF Level 7 and NQF Level 9, obtained from a DHET-accredited higher education institution. This includes:
- NQF Level 7: Bachelor’s Degree, Advanced Diploma, or B-Tech Degree.
- NQF Level 8: Bachelor’s Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma.
- NQF Level 9: Master’s Degree or M-Tech.
- Fields of Study – Applicants must have completed a qualification in any of the following disciplines:
- Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET)
- Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS)
- Research, Development, and Innovation
Who is NOT Eligible to Apply?
The following candidates do not qualify for the HSRC Internship Programme 2025-27:
- Those holding a Diploma below NQF Level 7 or a PhD (NQF Level 10).
- Registered full-time students, including doctoral (PhD, DPhil, or DTech) students.
- Individuals who receive DSI-funded scholarships or bursaries during the internship year.
- Past beneficiaries of DSI-NRF or DSI-HSRC internship programmes.
Host Institutions and Mentorship
The success of the HSRC Internship Programme relies on the active participation of host institutions and mentors who provide guidance and training.
Host Institution Requirements
Institutions interested in hosting interns must:
- Be engaged in Science, Engineering, Technology, Research, Development, Innovation, Humanities, or Social Sciences.
- Have mentors in permanent positions or long-term contracts (at least two years).
- Provide interns with workstations, computers, and other resources, including platforms for remote work.
- Commit to mentorship training, forums, and development programmes.
The Role of Mentors
Each intern is paired with a mentor who will guide their professional growth. Mentors play a crucial role in:
- Exposing interns to skills and knowledge relevant to their discipline.
- Providing training, coaching, and career guidance.
- Offering support in research, administration, and management.
- Ensuring that interns gain the experience needed to transition into full-time employment.
The programme also incorporates soft skills training, including communication, time management, and work etiquette, as well as employee wellness support, such as psychosocial counselling, financial advice, and legal guidance.
Internship Benefits and Duration
Monthly Stipend
Interns receive a monthly stipend throughout the 24-month duration of the programme. The stipend is administered by the HSRC to provide financial support while interns gain hands-on experience.
Skills Development
Interns will benefit from:
- Hands-on work experience in their field of study.
- Mentorship and coaching from industry professionals.
- Workshops and training to enhance their professional skills.
- Exposure to research projects and higher education institutions.
Recruitment Process
The HSRC Internship Programme 2025-27 follows a structured recruitment process:
- HSRC invites host institutions to express interest in hosting interns.
- HSRC publishes a call for applications from eligible graduates.
- Approved host institutions gain access to the intern database to identify potential candidates.
- Hosts shortlist and interview candidates, then notify HSRC of their selection.
- HSRC verifies eligibility and facilitates the contract process for successful interns.
The HSRC Internship Programme 2025-27 is a well-structured initiative designed to help South African graduates transition into the professional world. By participating, interns will gain essential skills, experience, and mentorship in their respective fields, increasing their chances of securing long-term employment.
Aspiring applicants are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and apply now to become part of a programme that is committed to shaping the future of South Africa’s workforce.
Check also: Gauteng Office of the Premier Internship Programme 2025