The Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA) offers a valuable internship programme for young graduates, providing them with the opportunity to gain essential hands-on experience in various fields within the public sector. These internships aim to nurture the skills and talents of recent graduates, offering them practical exposure that will enhance their employability and help them build a solid foundation for their careers.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the SHRA Internship Programme, its objectives, and the benefits it offers to young South Africans. Whether you’re a graduate looking to kick-start your career or someone interested in contributing to the development of affordable housing, the SHRA offers a unique platform to grow professionally.
About the Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA)
The Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA) is a public entity under the Department of Human Settlements in South Africa. It was established as part of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) to regulate and oversee the provision of rental social housing for low- to medium-income earners. The SHRA plays a critical role in ensuring that social housing meets the needs of South Africa’s citizens, particularly those who are underserved in terms of affordable housing.
Through its initiatives, the SHRA provides various opportunities to develop young professionals. Its internship programmes are an essential part of the broader goal of fostering a new generation of skilled professionals in the public sector.
Why Choose the SHRA Internship Programme?
The SHRA Internship Programme is not just about work experience—it’s about building a career. Here’s why you should consider applying:
1. Comprehensive Career Development
The SHRA offers internships that cover a range of fields, from Supply Chain Management to Human Resources, Finance, and more. These positions are designed to expose interns to the full spectrum of operations within a regulatory authority, providing them with a deeper understanding of the public sector.
2. Hands-on Experience
Interns are not just passive participants; they are actively involved in the daily operations of the SHRA. They receive practical training and support while contributing to the execution of projects that align with the SHRA’s mission of improving affordable housing in South Africa.
3. Mentorship and Support
Each intern is paired with experienced professionals within their respective departments. These mentors provide valuable insights, guidance, and support, helping interns navigate their responsibilities and develop skills that will serve them in their future careers.
4. Career Networking
The SHRA provides its interns with the opportunity to network with industry professionals, governmental departments, and other stakeholders in the public sector. Networking is a crucial component of career development, and the SHRA offers interns access to a wide range of professionals who can offer advice, mentorship, and job opportunities in the future.
5. Competitive Stipend
Interns at the SHRA are compensated with a competitive monthly stipend, which helps alleviate financial burdens while they gain valuable experience. This financial support makes it easier for young graduates to focus on their work and develop their professional skills.
SHRA Internship Programmes Available
The SHRA offers various internship positions across different departments, each tailored to specific skill sets. Here are some of the key internship opportunities currently available:
1. Supply Chain Management Internship
- Location: Johannesburg
- Duration: 24 months
- Stipend: R10,500 per month
- Reporting to: SCM Manager
Interns in this position will gain exposure to the core functions of supply chain management, such as contract management, tender evaluation, purchase orders, and documentation management. The position is ideal for graduates in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or Purchasing Management.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage and track contracts, invoices, and purchase orders
- Assist in the procurement process, ensuring compliance with public sector regulations
- Evaluate tenders and support the resolution of supply chain issues
- Provide administrative support to ensure the smooth running of SCM activities
Desired Skills:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Knowledge of public sector legislation and procurement regulations
- Attention to detail and ability to work under pressure
2. Human Resources Internship
- Location: Johannesburg
- Duration: 12 to 24 months
- Stipend: Competitive stipend
- Reporting to: HR Manager
This internship focuses on providing interns with practical experience in human resources management within the public sector. Interns will gain exposure to recruitment, employee relations, payroll management, and other HR functions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in recruitment and selection processes
- Support in payroll and benefits administration
- Manage employee documentation and filing systems
- Help with employee relations and performance management activities
Desired Skills:
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Understanding of labor laws and human resources regulations
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all tasks
3. Finance Internship
- Location: Johannesburg
- Duration: 12 to 24 months
- Stipend: Competitive stipend
- Reporting to: Finance Manager
Interns in the finance department will gain insight into the financial operations of a public entity. This includes exposure to financial reporting, budget management, and auditing processes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with financial record-keeping and reporting
- Support budget preparation and expenditure tracking
- Help in preparing for audits and compliance reviews
- Provide administrative support to the finance team
Desired Skills:
- Strong analytical and numerical skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial software
- Basic understanding of accounting principles and public finance management
4. Communications and Public Relations Internship
- Location: Johannesburg
- Duration: 12 to 24 months
- Stipend: Competitive stipend
- Reporting to: Communications Manager
This internship is for graduates with an interest in communications, media relations, and public relations. Interns will learn how to manage internal and external communications, media outreach, and social media campaigns.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in managing media relations and public communications
- Help prepare press releases and internal newsletters
- Monitor and report on media coverage
- Support in managing the organization’s social media accounts
Desired Skills:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Proficiency in social media platforms and content creation
- Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage multiple tasks
How to Apply for SHRA Internship Programmes
If you meet the qualifications for any of the SHRA internship positions, it’s time to submit your application! Interested candidates must apply by 17 May 2025. Here’s what you need to include in your application:
- Completed SHRA application form
- Certified copies of your Identity Document.
- Certified copies of your qualifications.
- A detailed CV.
- Proof of residential address.
Applications must be submitted to recruitment@shra.org.za by the closing date. Please ensure that all documents are correctly submitted, as incomplete applications will not be considered.
Check also: UNISA Internship Programme 2025
The Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA) offers more than just an internship—it provides a chance to shape your future in the public sector and contribute to the critical work of improving housing for South Africa’s underserved communities. With mentorship, hands-on experience, and exposure to different areas of operation, SHRA internships provide a solid foundation for a successful career.