DWYPD Internship: Advocacy & Disability Rights

Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Internship: Advocacy & Disability Rights Opportunity

Introduction

If you’re a recent graduate drawn to meaningful work that impacts society positively, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has a great opportunity for you this year. Based in Pretoria, this 24‑month internship in advocacy and mainstreaming offers hands‑on experience within government. You’ll support the rights of persons with disabilities while gaining real insight into policy development and monitoring and evaluation tools. The monthly stipend of R7 860 makes it easier for you to focus on building your skills and making a difference. Whether you’re using SPSS, NVivo, or monitoring & evaluation tools in your studies, this role brings that to life in a real-world context.

About the Role

This internship sits within the Chief Directorate: Advocacy and Mainstreaming for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. You’ll play a meaningful role in data collection, report‑writing, research, and contributing to disability‑focused advocacy campaigns. Your work may involve supporting monitoring and evaluation systems, doing qualitative data analysis, and researching policies that protect rights. It’s an opportunity to build vital skills in research methodology, stakeholder engagement, and how government departments function—all while contributing to inclusive social change.

Who Should Apply

If you’ve just graduated with a degree in Monitoring and Evaluation, Research, Statistics, or Law—especially international human rights law—this internship is tailored for you. You should be eager to work with tools like SPSS or NVivo, and genuinely interested in disability rights and socio‑economic transformation. Passionate, analytical, curious, and determined individuals who care about inclusive governance and advocacy will find this role especially rewarding. It’s perfect for those seeking a real-world start in public service or who aim for roles in legal consulting, fellowships, or policy-making later on.

Skills & Requirements

Here’s what you’ll need to qualify:

• A university degree in Monitoring and Evaluation, Research, Statistics, or Law
• Strong interest in international human rights law and inclusion
• Familiarity with monitoring and evaluation tools or systems
• Experience—academic or otherwise—with data collection methods and tools
• Good communication, analytical thinking, and teamwork skills

Working knowledge of SPSS, NVivo, or similar tools for qualitative data analysis is a plus. Being proactive and having a clear passion for advocacy and disability inclusion will help you stand out and thrive in this role.

Benefits

This internship may not offer full employee benefits, but it does provide a meaningful stipend (R7 860/month) that supports your time and effort. Beyond financial support, you’ll gain valuable mentorship, understanding of government processes, and firsthand exposure to inclusive policy-making. The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities is a respected institution whose work shapes socio‑economic transformation. You’ll build skills in project monitoring, research, and stakeholder communication that will be valuable for future careers in public service, legal advocacy, or research fellowships. Plus, serving in a role that amplifies the rights of persons with disabilities brings a rewarding sense of purpose.

How to Apply

To apply, send the following to Recruitment01@dwypd.gov.za:

• Your fully completed and signed Z83 application form (download from gov.za)
• A detailed CV

Make sure both are combined as one PDF document, not exceeding 15 MB. In your email’s subject line, clearly state: Intern: Advocacy and Mainstreaming, Rights of Persons with Disabilities – Ref No: DWYPD/RPD01/2025. Applications missing the Z83 or a CV, or submitted as JPEGs, will be disqualified. If you don’t hear back within three months after the closing date (29 September 2025), consider your application unsuccessful.

Closing Thoughts

This is more than an internship—it’s a chance to contribute to an inclusive public sector and champion equality for persons with disabilities. If you’re eager to gain practical experience, learn about policy and evaluation, and support a meaningful cause, this role is for you. Don’t let this opportunity pass—apply today and take your first step toward making real social impact.