38 Paid Internship Opportunities Available Across South Africa – Apply for the Kaonafatso ya Dikgomo Beef Improvement Program Now

The Agricultural Research Council – Animal Production (ARC-AP) invites motivated and suitably qualified applicants to apply for 38 Internship Positions under the Kaonafatso ya Dikgomo Beef Recording and Improvement Scheme. These are 2-year contract internships to be placed across all 9 provinces of South Africa. The closing date for applications is 24 July 2025.

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If you’re passionate about animals, farming, and working directly with rural communities, this internship could be the big break you’ve been waiting for. The Kaonafatso ya Dikgomo (KyD) project is a key part of improving livestock farming for smallholder and emerging farmers. And now, with 38 internship positions open, you can be part of this important mission.

Whether you’re fresh out of college or already have some experience, this internship gives you the chance to grow your skills, gain hands-on training, and build your future in animal production.

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What’s This Internship About?

The Kaonafatso ya Dikgomo Beef Recording and Improvement Scheme is a national program designed to help small-scale farmers improve the quality and performance of their cattle. Interns will be placed in all 9 provinces of South Africa and will work closely with farming communities.

Here’s what you’ll be doing:

• Helping farmers record and improve the quality of their cattle herds.
• Visiting farms and villages to give support and collect important data.
• Teaching new farmers how to join and participate in the beef improvement scheme.
• Helping organize training and recruitment events for farmers.
• Taking part in meetings and focus groups with farmers and their teams.
• Creating and updating a database with information on livestock performance and herd data.
• Compiling monthly reports on progress and performance.
• Being part of a provincial support team that works directly with farmers.

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Who Should Apply?

To qualify for this internship, you’ll need:

• A National Diploma in Animal Production.
• A strong motivation to work in farming and rural areas.
• A willingness to travel to farms, even in remote villages.
• Good communication skills – both spoken and written.
• Strong people skills – you’ll be working with farmers from all walks of life.

This role is perfect for someone who wants real-world experience in agriculture and livestock management, and who’s ready to make a difference in the lives of others.

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Important Things You Should Know

• You must choose only ONE province where you want to be placed. So think carefully about which area you’d be most comfortable working in.
• This is a 2-year internship, and it comes with a competitive salary.
• Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups in line with the ARC’s Employment Equity Plan.
• If you’re a non-South African citizen, make sure to attach your work permit and certified qualifications.
• If your qualification is from outside South Africa, you must attach a SAQA evaluation report.
• Only complete applications will be considered. Incomplete submissions will be rejected.
• If you don’t hear back within 4 weeks of the closing date, your application was unfortunately not successful.

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How to Apply

To apply, contact Dr. DM Motiang for enquiries at Tel: (012) 672 9147.

Make sure your application includes:

• A complete CV.
• Certified copies of your ID, qualifications, and if applicable, your work permit.
• The names and contact details of three traceable referees.

Applications must be submitted before 24 July 2025. The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) reserves the right not to fill the positions.

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Why This Internship Matters

This internship isn’t just about learning – it’s about making real change in South Africa’s farming communities. You’ll be helping small-scale farmers raise better livestock, grow their incomes, and build sustainable farms.

If you’re serious about a career in agriculture, animal science, or rural development, this is an opportunity that could shape your future. You’ll build a strong foundation, work with experts, and gain the experience that employers are looking for.