In an important step towards strengthening research training and capacity development, the South African Medical Research Council’s (SAMRC) Division of Research Capacity Development (RCD) recently engaged with the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and the National Skills Fund (NSF) and the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) on the HSRC Internship Programme. The session provided a platform for mentors, interns, and stakeholders to exchange experiences and identify opportunities for improvement.

Dr Abeda Dawood, Divisional Manager at RCD, highlighted SAMRC’s active role in this programme, having hosted 15 interns since 2021. Of these, six successfully completed the programme, while nine remain active. She underscored the value of the programme in contributing to both the SAMRC’s scientific mission and its transformation goals.

Representing the HSRC, Mr Sello Raseruthe, outlined the evolution of the internship programme since its transition from the National Research Foundation in 2021. He emphasised the programme’s importance in providing meaningful work experience, advancing transformation, and supporting pathways into employment, postgraduate study, and entrepreneurship.

The funders of the programme were represented by Mr Mboneni Mfilho from DSTI and Dr Shange from the National Skills Fund.

Mentors expressed deep appreciation for the programme, noting the valuable contributions interns have made to the SAMRC and highlighting how their presence has enriched both the organisation and the mentorship experience.

Dr Dawood noted that this constructive exchange underscored the collaborative effort by the SAMRC mentors together with the HSRC, DSTI and NSF to ensure that the internship programme remains a transformative platform—one that empowers young scientists to transition successfully into the national research and innovation system. This reaffirms the shared commitment to supporting South Africa’s next generation of researchers.

By Deney Christians