Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute (SPII) has opened its 2026 Internship program and is inviting all unemployed graduates to apply now. All interested applicants should apply using the details below.

CLOSING DATE: 02 September 2026

“Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute” (SPII) is a Johannesburg, South Africa non-profit think tank dedicated to advancing South Africa’s Constitution and to eradicating poverty and inequality through empirical research. An Intern in Research and Administration is needed for a fixed-term assignment at SPII

Position: Research and Administrative Intern

Duration: 6 months (fixed term)

Terms: 5 days per week

Stipend: R7 000 per month (not negotiable)

This position will work across a number of our key projects, including our social security and decent standard of living work, all of which are aligned to our focus on the reduction of poverty and inequality in South Africa, through the realisation of the transformative socio-economic rights in the Constitution.

INTERNSHIP REQUIREMENTS

Applicant must have a first degree in:

• Human rights/Constitutional law,
• Politics,
• Economics,
• Development,
• or a related field.
• Honours degree is an advantage.

INTERNSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work closely with the Research Manager and Research team to support SPII’s research work on the Social Security and Decent Standard of Living 2026 research projects.
• Undertake primary and secondary research work as well as research writing, where necessary.
• Assist with projects implementation and monitoring.
• Assist with the administration of the research unit’s projects – in support to the senior and junior Researchers.
• Assist with the development of research proposals and with compiling reports, as required.
• Engage in networking and the profile raising of SPII by participating in relevant workshops, conferences and stakeholder meetings.
• Engage in media and publicity work for SPII, as required.
• Provide general administrative support to the Research team.
• Provide ad hoc assistance to the general work of SPII, as required.

INTERNSHIP COMPETENCIES

• An interest in human rights particularly in relation to socio-economic rights.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a small team, and a demonstrated ability to use initiative and to take a proactive approach to work.
• Communication skills – ability and confidence to speak in public and with stakeholders.
• Proven experience with using social media for campaigning.
• Good English reading and writing skills are essential.
• The ability to communicate in at least one other South African language is an advantage.
• Experience with Microsoft Office skills.
• Commitment to the values of SPII and a passion for social justice.

METHOD OF APPLICATION

To apply, submit a short CV, a motivation/cover letter, and a sample of your written work to: applications@spii.org.za

• SPII is committed to Employment Equity and will give preference to historically disadvantaged South African applicants.
• Those with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
• Late and incomplete applications will not be considered for the position.
• Only suitable qualified candidates will be considered, SPII reserves the right to cancel the position should the needs of the SPII change or should we regard the submissions not to be adequate based on its needs.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.