Internships

Help lead policy in Cape Town: South Africa’s seat of power

Political science internships in Cape Town

South Africa is a dream destination for a political science internship abroad. The country is only three decades removed from the turbulent era of Apartheid, and many of its citizens maintain vivid memories of the country’s dark political past. Today’s “New South Africa” is guided by a progressive constitution that is considered to be among the freest and fairest constitutions in the world.

A political science internship in South Africa will give you a firsthand look at the current climate of South African contemporary politics and the issues facing a young democracy. Your internship will also allow you to participate in the policy debates that will help determine the future of South Africa.

 

Political science internships through VACorps

Law and justice

Work alongside attorneys arguing cases, judges rendering decisions, or advocates furthering justice system reforms surrounding important legal issues facing the country.

Public policy

Assist public officials in researching, developing, and evaluating potential policies that serve public interests and advance the quality of life locally and nationally.

Political analysis

Work closely with analysts tracking regional/global socioeconomic trends, demographic data, voting patterns, and legislative/electoral developments.

Political campaigns and elections

Work directly with political parties and grassroots organizers, learning how municipal, regional and national campaigns are built.

Legislative research

Help research complex policy topics, write position papers, prepare key legislators for debates, and help inform lawmaking.

Community outreach and political awareness

Assist grassroots organizations in expanding public participation, voter registration, and public engagement.

Help shape the political landscape

The South African Parliament is located in Cape Town, making the city the ideal place to participate in a political science internship in South Africa. You will receive firsthand experience in politics and policy development while interning at a government department, policy institute, NGO, or South African political party.

A political science internship in South Africa will expose you to the legislative system by monitoring parliamentary meetings and expanding your cultural boundaries.

Tell us your policy interests so we can facilitate placements that shift what’s possible!

Benefits of a political science internship in Cape Town

Support SA’s progressive constitution
Gain irreplaceable government experience
Build connections across sectors
Immerse yourself in Cape Town’s rich history

The time is now to explore, connect, and invest in yourself in Cape Town. Let us match you with an experience that counts.

Explore other internships

Biotechnology

Advance global health through research placements at renowned labs pioneering new medical technologies.

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Business and Finance

Gain emerging market finance experience at funds and startups leading Africa’s investment frontier.

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Clean Energy

Champion climate justice contributing skills to expand clean energy access for underserved communities.

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Conservation

Safeguard Cape Town’s treasured yet threatened ecosystems, working alongside frontline conservationists.

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Counseling & Psychology

Address mental health needs with trauma specialists bringing care to overlooked communities.

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Education

Teach and inspire students gaining classroom skills at under-resourced schools, uplifting disadvantaged youth.

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Engineering

Innovate solutions by collaborating with firms tackling urgent infrastructure and development challenges.

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Gap Year

Preview future careers interning in your field of choice while enjoying life-expanding adventures.

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Human Rights

Advocate for the vulnerable assisting organizations protecting rights and services for marginalized groups.

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Journalism

Develop multimedia skills reporting on Cape Town’s dynamic political, social and cultural happenings.

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Law

Champion justice by researching landmark cases and conducting outreach alongside leading human rights firms.

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Marketing

Shape brands for good by managing campaigns empowering social enterprises and community programs.

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Media, Film & Photography

Launch your creative career on sets and in studios alongside Cape Town’s top film, TV and photography talent.

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Medical

Boost your clinical skills by shadowing doctors on the frontlines of South Africa’s pressing healthcare battles.

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Occupational Therapy

Master your occupational therapy craft with specialized mentors guiding pediatric, mental health and elder care.

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Physical Therapy

Gain hands-on experience working alongside leading physical therapy practitioners.

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Public Health

Protect the vulnerable by collecting data, assisting workshops and expanding community health access.

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Refugee Work

Empower asylum seekers to help refugees access housing, employment, healthcare, and legal aid.

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Social Work

Uplift the overlooked co-facilitating therapy and evaluating interventions for at-risk youth and families.

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Speech Pathology & Audiology

Help people find their voice by practising techniques guided by specialized clinical mentors.

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Sports Management

Gain industry expertise assisting in operations, marketing and events for national federations and clubs.

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Sustainability

Catalyze solutions directly supporting projects increasing environmental protections and food security.

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Technology

Build skills collaborating with pioneering startups leveraging innovations to drive financial inclusion.

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