Limpopo Department of Social Development Researcher Internship 2025

Closing Date: 16 May 2025

Location: Various District and Head Offices, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Job Type: 9-Month Internship

Reference Number: DSD-RESEARCHER-2025

Stipend: R7,043.30/month

Join the 2025 Limpopo Department of Social Development Researcher Internship! 30 nine-month positions for unemployed graduates, earning R7,043.30/month. Conduct research and engage communities across Limpopo districts. Apply by 16 May 2025!

About Limpopo Department of Social Development

The Limpopo Department of Social Development is a government agency dedicated to enhancing the well-being of Limpopo’s communities through social development initiatives. Committed to empowering individuals and fostering an inclusive society, the department offers internship opportunities to nurture the next generation of professionals. Join a team passionate about transforming lives in districts like Capricorn, Mopani, Sekhukhune, Vhembe, and Waterberg.

Position Purpose

The Researcher Internship Programme 2025 offers 30 nine-month positions for unemployed graduates to gain fieldwork experience in social development research. Interns will contribute to data collection, stakeholder engagement, and research initiatives across various Limpopo districts and head offices, earning a R7,043.30 monthly stipend while supporting evidence-based decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research on social issues, trends, and best practices to support departmental initiatives.
• Collect and analyze data to contribute to evidence-based decision-making.
• Engage with stakeholders and communities to assess needs and gather insights.
• Assist in preparing reports, presentations, and documentation for research projects.
• Support the planning and implementation of social development programs.
• Adhere to research protocols, ethics, and the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
• Compile weekly or monthly work programmes and reports as required.

Benefits

• Monthly stipend of R7,043.30 for nine months.
• Hands-on experience in social development research and fieldwork.
• Exposure to public sector operations and community engagement.
• Opportunity to develop skills in data analysis, research, and stakeholder collaboration.
• Certificate of completion to enhance future career prospects.
• Contribution to meaningful social development initiatives in Limpopo.

Eligibility Criteria

• South African citizen aged 18–35, residing in Limpopo Province.
• Hold a tertiary qualification (NQF Level 6 or above) in fields such as Demography, Population Studies, Community Development, Development Studies, Social Work, Nursing, Psychology, Sociology, Social Sciences, Information Technology, Computer Science, Media and Communication, or Law.
• Unemployed with no prior participation in a similar internship programme.
• Knowledge of Batho Pele Principles, POPIA, research protocols, and departmental mandates.
• Ability to speak local languages in Limpopo districts (e.g., Sepedi, Tshivenda, Xitsonga).
• Clear criminal record, verified via background checks.
• Commitment to a nine-month programme with regular attendance.

Preferences

• Candidates from Employment Equity groups (e.g., women, persons with disabilities).
• Knowledge of local Limpopo communities and their social challenges.
• Strong communication skills (listening, verbal, and written).
• Basic computer literacy for data analysis and reporting.
• Enthusiasm for social development and community impact.

Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes

• Knowledge of social development research, POPIA, and Batho Pele Principles.
• Skills in research, data collection, analysis, and stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to adhere to research ethics and confidentiality standards.
• Strong communication for community interactions and reporting.
• Commitment to the department’s mission of empowering communities.
• Adaptability to work across various Limpopo districts.

Why Join Limpopo Department of Social Development?

The Limpopo Department of Social Development is a leader in promoting social welfare and community empowerment in Limpopo Province. As a Researcher Intern, you’ll gain valuable fieldwork experience, contribute to impactful research, and work with communities in districts like Capricorn, Mopani, Sekhukhune, Vhembe, and Waterberg. Join an equal opportunity employer dedicated to diversity, inclusion, and professional growth.

Application Process

Submit your application, quoting reference number DSD-RESEARCHER-2025, by 16 May 2025. Hand-deliver a cover letter and detailed CV to: The Acting Head of Department, Limpopo Department of Social Development, 21 Biccard Street, Olympic Towers, Ground Floor Office 030, Polokwane, OR post to: Private Bag X9710, Polokwane, 0700. Certified copies of qualifications, academic records, and ID are not required initially but must be provided by shortlisted candidates on or before the interview date. If you do not hear back within three months of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful. Ensure all details are accurate, as false information may lead to disqualification. The Limpopo Department of Social Development does not charge fees for applications.

For more information, visit the Limpopo Department of Social Development website