SADC Work Integrated Learning Opportunities 2026: Paid Internship and Graduate Programme

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) offers six work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities for nationals of SADC Member States, combining internships and graduate placements at its headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana, and at the SADC Plant Genetic Resource Centre in Lusaka, Zambia.

What it offers

• 6 positions across different directorates:
  • Communication and Public Relations – Media Production Graduate (1)
  • Food, Agriculture & Natural Resources – Environmental Science Graduate (1)
  • Gender – Gender Monitoring, Evaluation and Research Graduate (1)
  • Infrastructure – Cybersecurity Intern (1)
  • Procurement Ex-Ante – Procurement Ex-Ante Intern (1)
  • SADC Plant Genetic Resource Centre – Procurement & Admin Intern (1)
• Duration: Internships last 3–12 months; graduate opportunities are 12 months.
• Benefits: Return airfare covered; monthly stipend of US$250.

Who can apply

• Nationals of SADC Member States.
• Under 52 years old.
• Enrolled in or graduated from a registered higher learning institution with an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification.
• Must have moral integrity, no criminal convictions, and the right to reside and work in the host country for the full duration.
• Graduates must have passed and graduated at least one year before enrolment.

What you'll do

• Gain practical experience in a regional institution focused on learning and exposure.
• Work in specific directorates such as media production, environmental science, gender monitoring, cybersecurity, or procurement.

How to apply

• Submit applications to the SADC National Contact Point by 28 June 2026.
• Include:
  • Recommendation letter (for students)
  • Certified copies of qualification and academic record
  • Cover letter specifying the stream and relevance of your course/qualification
  • Updated CV
  • Identity documents

Good to know

• SADC encourages applications from women and people with disabilities.
• The Secretariat does not assist with visa applications but can provide supporting documents.