IEC Opens Outreach Internship 2025/2026 – A Rare Opportunity for Young Graduates

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for the Outreach Internship Programme 2025/2026 at its Western Cape Provincial Office. This programme offers a 24-month paid internship for young graduates who want real workplace experience. The closing date for applications is 20 November 2025.

A Career-Shaping Opportunity for Youth With No Experience

Many young South Africans struggle to enter the working world because most jobs require experience. The IEC Outreach Internship is designed especially for those who have never worked in their field of study before. This two-year programme helps graduates gain practical skills in civic education, elections management, community work, communication, research, and general administration.

The IEC plays a critical role in South Africa’s democracy by managing free and fair elections. Joining this programme gives you exposure to real elections processes, public engagement, and meaningful community development activities. It is a chance to contribute to your country while building a strong career foundation.

Programme Details at a Glance

• Programme: IEC Outreach Internship 2025–2026
• Location: Bellville, Cape Town (Western Cape)
• Duration: 24 months
• Stipend: R10 441.14 per month
• Minimum Qualification: National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree
• Closing Date: 20 November 2025
• Reference Number: WC/2025/47416
• Online Applications: IEC Jobs Portal

This programme is based at the Western Cape Provincial Office and supervised by the Assistant Manager: Outreach.

What You Will Learn During the Internship

The IEC Outreach Internship provides real experience that helps young people learn, grow, and understand how civic processes work. Interns take part in community activities, communication projects, research assignments, and office administration.

Supporting Civic and Democracy Education

Interns assist with civic education projects across the province. This includes helping with voter registration drives, supporting youth outreach events, and coordinating stakeholder meetings. You will help organise community workshops, observe how elections teams work on the ground, and prepare reports for provincial outreach activities.

This part of the internship is perfect for graduates interested in community development, public service, or social research.

Communication and Media Support

Strong communication is essential in elections work. As part of the communication unit, interns will:

• Assist in drafting provincial communication plans
• Build and maintain media contact databases
• Help prepare media statements
• Monitor media enquiries
• Support media briefings and interviews

This experience helps you build communication, writing, and teamwork skills that are useful in many career paths.

Research, Data and Reporting

Interns conduct research on electoral processes, regional demographics, and socio-economic trends. You will analyse information and write reports that support provincial decision-making. You may also propose ideas for youth engagement and civic education seminars.

This section of the internship strengthens your research, analytical, and writing skills.

Finance, HR and Office Administration

The internship also includes administrative work such as:

• Supporting finance documentation
• Assisting with HR tasks for permanent and temporary staff
• Drafting reports, minutes, and presentations
• Helping manage filing systems, documents, and meeting logistics

These duties teach you how a professional office functions daily.

Minimum Requirements You Must Meet

To qualify for the IEC Outreach Internship, applicants must meet all the following conditions:

• Completed Grade 12
• Completed a three-year National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Public Management, Humanities, Communications, Journalism, Law, Political Studies, or similar fields
• Must be 35 years old or younger
• Must be a registered voter
• Must not have done an internship before
• Must not have worked in the field of study
• Must understand the Western Cape, its languages, and socio-economic context
• Must have strong communication and writing skills
• Must be computer-literate, including MS Office and Excel
• Must be willing to travel and work long hours when needed
• Must be able to work under pressure in a team environment

Applicants must also maintain a neutral political profile and avoid being involved in high-level party-political structures.

Required Documents for Your Application

You must upload all required documents, or your application will be disqualified. These include:

• A detailed, updated CV
• Certified copies of qualifications
• Certified copy of your ID
• Certified copy of your driver’s licence if required
• SAQA evaluation certificate for foreign qualifications

Make sure your copies are recently certified.

Important Notes All Applicants Should Know

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
• Recommended candidates will go through criminal, qualification, credit and CV checks
• If you do not hear from the IEC by 31 December 2025, your application was unsuccessful
• The IEC may choose not to fill the position

How to Apply Online

Applications must be submitted on the IEC Jobs Portal. Follow these steps:

1. Go to the IEC Jobs Portal
2. Search for Reference Number: WC/2025/47416
3. Complete your profile
4. Upload certified documents
5. Submit your application

Make sure all information is accurate and complete.