Parliamentary Research Programme 2026 Paid Internship in South Africa

Parliamentary Research Programme 2026 applications are now open for graduates interested in gaining practical policy and research experience inside Parliament in Cape Town, South Africa. The Parliamentary Research Programme offered by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung provides a five-month paid internship designed to equip young professionals with hands-on experience in parliamentary processes, research, and policy development. The programme will run from 28 April to 25 September 2026, and interested applicants must submit their applications before the 8 March 2026 deadline at 22:00.

About the Opportunity

The Parliamentary Research Programme is an intensive professional internship programme organized by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS). The initiative is designed to support young graduates who are interested in public policy, governance, legislative processes, and democratic institutions.

This paid internship programme offers participants the opportunity to work directly within Parliament in Cape Town while contributing to research and policy analysis. Interns gain valuable insight into the workings of parliamentary systems and policy development while building professional skills relevant to careers in public policy, governance, research, and political institutions.

Through the Parliamentary Research Programme, participants are immersed in the daily operations of parliamentary work. This exposure allows interns to understand how research and policy recommendations influence legislative debates, parliamentary oversight, and democratic decision-making processes.

The programme is particularly beneficial for graduates who are passionate about governance, democracy, and policymaking. Participants gain direct exposure to the functioning of Parliament while strengthening their research, analytical, and communication skills in a real-world policy environment.

Working within Parliament also enables interns to build valuable professional networks with policymakers, researchers, and public sector professionals.

Benefits

Participants selected for the Parliamentary Research Programme will receive several professional and career development benefits.

Key benefits include:

• A paid internship opportunity within Parliament in Cape Town
• Practical exposure to parliamentary procedures and policymaking
• Hands-on experience conducting research and supporting policy work
• Development of strong analytical and research skills
• Networking opportunities with policymakers, researchers, and governance professionals
• Professional experience that strengthens future careers in policy, governance, research, and public administration

This programme provides a unique opportunity for graduates to build their understanding of legislative processes while gaining practical experience in policy-related work.

Parliamentary Research Programme Learning Experience

Participants in the Parliamentary Research Programme will be involved in research activities that support parliamentary work and policy discussions.

Interns may assist with:

• Conducting policy and legislative research
• Preparing research briefs and reports
• Supporting parliamentary research initiatives
• Contributing to policy analysis and documentation
• Engaging in discussions on governance and public policy issues

Through these activities, participants gain a deeper understanding of parliamentary oversight, policy analysis, and the legislative decision-making process.

The programme also allows interns to learn how research supports evidence-based policymaking and democratic governance.

Eligibility

The Parliamentary Research Programme is designed for graduates who are interested in governance, research, and policymaking.

Ideal candidates are individuals who:

• Have completed a university degree
• Demonstrate strong interest in public policy, governance, or parliamentary processes
• Possess strong analytical, research, and writing skills
• Are able to commit to the full-time programme schedule

Applicants should also demonstrate a strong commitment to democratic values and interest in policy development and governance.

Duration and Location

The Parliamentary Research Programme 2026 will take place in Cape Town, South Africa, where participants will gain experience working within Parliament.

Programme details include:

Programme Duration:

28 April – 25 September 2026

Commitment:

Full-time internship (minimum 40 hours per week)

The five-month programme provides participants with sufficient time to develop practical research experience and a deeper understanding of parliamentary operations.

How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit their application through the official online application form.

To begin the application process, candidates must fill out the application form available through the official programme portal.

After submitting the form, applicants will receive an email with further instructions about the programme and the remaining steps required to complete the application.

Applicants should ensure they check their email inbox and spam folders if the confirmation email is delayed.

APPLY HERE

Deadline

Application Deadline: 8 March 2026 at 22:00

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early to ensure their applications are submitted before the deadline.

Final Note

The Parliamentary Research Programme provides a valuable opportunity for graduates interested in governance, policy development, and parliamentary processes. By participating in this programme, interns will gain meaningful professional experience that can open doors to careers in policy research, government institutions, international organizations, and public administration.

Graduates interested in understanding how research supports policymaking and democratic governance are strongly encouraged to apply.

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