Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Opportunities Announcement
Organisation
Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat
Background
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is a regional economic community founded and maintained by countries in Southern Africa. It aims to further the socio-economic, political and security cooperation among its Member States and foster regional integration in order to achieve peace, stability, and wealth.
SADC currently has sixteen (16) Member States with a population of approximately 340 million and a combined GDP of US$720 billion.
SADC Secretariat is currently recruiting six (6) interns/ graduates in different Directorates/Units. The programme is for a period of 3–12 months and the WIL Programme is aimed at providing participants with comprehensive practical experience in a setting where learning and exposure is the primary objective.
The Secretariat is therefore inviting qualified citizens of SADC Member States to apply for internship opportunities tenable at its Headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana, and at the SADC Plant Genetic Resource Centre in Lusaka, Zambia.
Internship Position
Title: Gender Monitoring, Evaluation and Research Graduate (1 Position)
Duration: 12 Months
Experiential Learning
- Assist in implementation of research activities and contribute to the interpretation of findings, ensuring they inform programme adaptation and learning
- Innovatively package and disseminate gender-related information to key stakeholders
- Support preparation of Monitoring and Evaluation reports, including initiatives to monitor the Gender Protocol and other SADC gender policies and strategies
- Provide input and support the regular collection of data and information on gender from Directorates and Member States using primary and secondary research techniques
- Support projects to develop technology-driven (digital) data collection tools
- Analyse data and information from research commissioned
- Prepare data for publishing on the SADC website and other forms of media
- Organise sharing of technical information among Member States
Academic Qualification
- At least a Master’s degree in Gender and Development, Development Studies, or a related field from a recognised institution
Skills Requirements
- Research, analytical, and problem-solving skills
- Good technical writing and presentation skills
- Communication skills
- Networking skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Organised and detail-oriented approach to work
- Conceptual and practical thinking
- Proficiency in the use of computers and computer software
Expected Learning Outcomes
- Learning of innovative data management techniques
- Enhanced communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Experience in gender programming and gender data
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be nationals of SADC Member States
- Be under the age of 52 years
- Be enrolled in or have graduated from a registered and accredited institution of higher learning (undergraduate or postgraduate level)
- Possess the highest standard of moral conduct and integrity
- Not have been convicted of a crime
- Have the right to reside and work in the host country for the full duration of the WIL experience
Note:
SADC Secretariat will not assist with visa applications but will provide necessary supporting documentation where required.
Students/trainees may qualify if the internship is an integral part of their academic programme and contributes to continuous assessment prior to graduation.
Graduates must have completed their studies at least one year before enrolment into the SADC WIL programme. Certified copies of academic records and qualifications must be provided.
Financial Obligations
- SADC Secretariat will cover return travel costs to and from the Member State
- A monthly stipend of US$250.00 will be provided
- Member States are responsible for:
- Accommodation
- Medical/life cover
- Visa application costs
Tenure of Appointment
- Internship: Minimum of three (3) months
- Graduate placement: Minimum of twelve (12) months
Submission of Applications
Closing Date: 28 June 2026
Applications must be submitted to the SADC National Contact Point in the respective Member State not later than or on the closing date.
Required Documents
- Recommendation letter from the institution of higher learning (for students/trainees)
- Certified copies of academic qualifications and academic record (with official institutional seal)
- Cover letter stating the internship/graduate stream applied for and explaining how qualifications, experience, and competencies are relevant
- Updated Curriculum Vitae
- Identity documents
Reference
REF: SADC/2/3/3/3
Gender Mainstreaming
SADC is an equal opportunity employer and particularly encourages applications from female candidates.
Mainstreaming of People with Disabilities
SADC is an equal opportunity employer and particularly encourages applications from people with disabilities.