INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY - FREEDOM OF INFORMATION PROGRAMME

SAHA is looking for a dedicated and dynamic individual interested in learning more about building a career in human rights advocacy, to join its Freedom of Information Programme (FOIP) for a 6 - 12 month internship starting from early July 2014.

Summary of key responsibilities

In the course of the internship, the intern is expected to support the work of the FOIP team through:

• Submitting and tracking requests made of public and private bodies under PAIA
• Assisting in the delivery of SAHA’s PAIA training to NGOs and CBOs
• Providing administrative support, including at stakeholder meetings
• Conducting research, as directed, into national and regional use of access to information
• Supporting a retrospective analysis of PAIA requests submitted by SAHA from 2001 to 2011, in particular through data collation and analysis (if required)

Skills and qualifications

• Degree in law, political science, public administration, journalism or other relevant field
• Demonstrable commitment to social justice
• Ability to plan, prioritize work, and meet deadlines
• Ability to show initiative within a collaborative working environment
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Competency with Microsoft Office software

The internship is based at the SAHA offices at Constitution Hill in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. The intern will be expected to work on a full-time basis for at least 6 months (up to a maximum of 12 months).  The intern will receive a modest monthly stipend for the duration of the internship. The FOIP intern reports to the FOIP Coordinator and the FOIP Advocacy and Training Outreach Officer.

How to apply

To apply, please prepare a one-page letter of motivation (no more than 500 words) that addresses the following:

• What is the purpose of Promotion of Access to Information Act, 2000 (PAIA)?
• What were the motivating factors behind the development of PAIA?
• Provide an example of how you think PAIA could be used to support struggles for justice in South Africa.

Submit this letter of motivation with your CV (no longer than 3 pages) and the contact details for at least 2 professional referees by email to (Mr Lwazi Mtshiyo) lwazi@saha.org.za by 4pm Monday 9 June 2014.

Late applications will not be accepted.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.