The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is offering an excellent opportunity for unemployed graduates to gain valuable workplace experience in the field of Student Academic Administration through its Graduate Internship Programme.
This initiative, funded by the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA), aims to enhance the employability and skills development of graduates by offering them a hands-on learning experience within the higher education environment.
Overview of the Internship Programme
The UKZN Graduate Internship Programme is a fixed-term 24-month opportunity that offers a comprehensive learning experience to graduates looking to enhance their professional skills. The successful candidate will be placed in the Student Academic Administration section, where they will provide essential customer service and support all administrative functions within the department.
As a part of the programme, interns will gain exposure to various tasks and responsibilities, assisting with student records administration and other ad-hoc duties as required by the department.
Location and Remuneration
The internship will take place in Durban, providing a convenient location for those based in or near the city. In terms of compensation, the intern will receive a monthly stipend of R6,500. This stipend is aimed at assisting with living expenses during the course of the internship.
However, it is important to note that the internship does not guarantee permanent employment at the University after the 24-month period. Nonetheless, it offers invaluable work experience, which can significantly boost a graduate’s employability.
Requirements for Applicants
This internship is specifically targeted at unemployed graduates, and applicants must meet certain criteria to be considered for the position. The key requirements for applying to the UKZN Administration Internship are as follows:
- Qualification: Applicants must possess a degree in Public Administration or a related field, at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7.
- Age: Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Status: Applicants must be unemployed graduates, which means they should not have previous full-time work experience directly related to their field of study.
- Availability: The internship requires a commitment to the full 24-month duration, meaning applicants must be available for the entire term of the programme.
In addition to these basic requirements, candidates should have a number of key competencies and skills to succeed in the internship:
- Basic Computer Skills: Applicants should be proficient in using the Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Email), as these tools are essential for performing administrative duties effectively.
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills: As the intern will be interacting with students and staff, effective communication skills are crucial. Strong interpersonal skills are also needed to work collaboratively within the team.
- Willingness to Learn: Candidates must demonstrate a strong willingness to learn new skills and take initiative in various administrative tasks.
Key Responsibilities
As part of the internship, the intern will be tasked with a variety of duties, including:
- Customer Service: Providing high-quality customer service to students and staff, ensuring their inquiries and concerns are addressed promptly and professionally.
- Administrative Functions: Supporting various administrative tasks within the Student Academic Administration section, which may involve processing student records, maintaining databases, and assisting with academic documentation.
- Ad-Hoc Duties: Assisting with any additional administrative functions as assigned by the department, ensuring smooth operations within the team.
Equal Opportunity and Employment Equity
The UKZN internship programme encourages applicants from designated groups as outlined in the University’s Employment Equity Plan. Preference will be given to candidates who align with these groups, fostering an inclusive and diverse working environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply by submitting their applications before the closing date of 15 June 2025. To ensure that their application is considered, candidates must meet all the specified requirements, including having the necessary qualifications and being available for the full 24-month duration.
While the programme is SETA-funded and provides a stipend, it’s important for applicants to understand that there is no guarantee of permanent employment at the conclusion of the internship. However, the experience gained will undoubtedly contribute to building a strong career foundation.
The UKZN Administration Internship Programme offers a unique and valuable opportunity for unemployed graduates to develop practical skills in the education sector. With a supportive learning environment and exposure to a range of administrative tasks, this internship is an excellent stepping stone for those looking to enhance their career prospects.
Graduates who are eager to learn, willing to work hard, and committed to the full duration of the internship are encouraged to apply before the deadline on 15 June 2025. This internship could be the beginning of an exciting career in education administration and beyond, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
Check also: SANParks Internship Programme (2026)
