Agricultural Research Council (ARC) x38 Internships 2025
Listing Reference: AP56
Listing Status: Open
Company: Agricultural Research Council – Animal Production (ARC-AP)
Industry: Agricultural Research / Animal Sciences
Job Category: Internship / Animal Production / Agricultural Extension
Location: All 9 Provinces in South Africa
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (2-Year Contract)
Remuneration: Market-Related
EE Position: Yes – Preference will be given to designated groups in line with the ARC Employment Equity Plan
Closing Date: 24 July 2025
Introduction
Agricultural Research Council (ARC) x38 Internships 2025 The Agricultural Research Council (ARC), through its Animal Production (ARC-AP) division, is proud to announce 38 Internship opportunities under the Kaonafatso ya Dikgomo – Beef Recording and Improvement Scheme, aimed at empowering smallholder farmers across all nine provinces of South Africa. These internships are designed to enhance practical knowledge, grow professional skills, and contribute meaningfully to national livestock improvement strategies over a 2-year contract.
The ARC is a leading scientific research institution committed to excellence in agricultural innovation, development, and sustainability. With a focus on transforming and uplifting small-scale farming operations, ARC-AP’s Kaonafatso ya Dikgomo programme stands at the heart of its mission to support rural development and food security.
This internship programme provides a unique opportunity for qualified graduates in Animal Production to engage directly with communities and develop hands-on skills in livestock improvement, animal data recording, and extension services. Candidates will be deployed across all provinces and are expected to select only one province of preferred placement.
Job Description
Interns appointed to this programme will:
- Provide on-site animal recording and improvement services tailored for smallholder farmers.
- Train and recruit farmers and teams into the Kaonafatso ya Dikgomo Beef Recording and Improvement Scheme.
- Conduct regular visits to participating farms for data collection, advisory services, and scheme implementation.
- Educate new farmer participants on the various phases of the beef recording scheme and how to implement them practically.
- Facilitate focus sessions and one-on-one consultations with farming teams and individuals.
- Compile and manage herd statistics databases to assess livestock performance indicators.
- Collaborate closely with provincial farmer support teams for effective project roll-out.
- Submit detailed and timely monthly reports documenting activities, performance metrics, and fieldwork findings.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications to be considered:
- National Diploma in Animal Production or equivalent tertiary qualification.
- A valid South African driver’s license is advantageous but not mandatory.
- Willingness and motivation to travel extensively to rural farms and village communities.
- A solid understanding of beef cattle production and community-based farming systems.
- Candidates must clearly indicate the province in which they wish to be placed (only one province allowed per applicant).
Role Responsibility
Interns will play a key part in delivering ARC’s livestock recording initiatives with the goal of improving productivity, breeding standards, and overall herd health in smallholder systems. They will act as a crucial link between farmers and research-based knowledge, ensuring sustainable and data-driven livestock farming practices through:
- Implementing beef recording protocols.
- Advising farmers on breeding practices based on herd performance data.
- Supporting knowledge transfer initiatives via field days and workshops.
- Ensuring the accurate entry of collected data into national livestock databases.
- Working with local extension officers and agricultural advisors to coordinate interventions.
Skills and Attributes
Ideal candidates must demonstrate the following professional skills and personal attributes:
- Strong Communication Skills: Ability to explain complex concepts to farmers in a clear, respectful, and culturally appropriate manner.
- Team Player: Collaborative mindset, able to work effectively with diverse stakeholders including provincial teams, local authorities, and farming communities.
- Self-Motivation: Interns must be proactive, responsible, and capable of working independently in field environments.
- Attention to Detail: Accuracy in data recording, reporting, and herd assessments is critical.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Awareness and respect for rural community dynamics and traditional practices in livestock management.
- Passion for Agriculture: Deep interest in livestock production and rural development.
Additional Notes
- Security Clearance: All appointments are subject to a positive security clearance.
- Probation Period: A standard six (6) month probation period applies for all permanent appointments.
- Work Permits: Non-RSA citizens must include certified copies of valid work permits.
- SAQA Accreditation: All foreign qualifications must be accompanied by an official SAQA evaluation report.
- References: Applicants must provide contact details for at least three (3) traceable referees.
- Employment Equity: Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups as per ARC’s Employment Equity Plan.
- Communication: If no feedback is received within four (4) weeks of the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.
- Right to Appoint: The ARC reserves the right not to make an appointment.
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How to Apply
Qualified and passionate candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting:
- A comprehensive and updated CV.
- A cover letter indicating the chosen province for placement.
- Certified copies of academic qualifications.
- Certified copy of identity document or valid work permit (for non-RSA citizens).
- SAQA verification report (if applicable).
- Contact details of three (3) references.
Send your application to the ARC Human Resources Office (Irene Campus) on or before 24 July 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
For more information, you may contact:
Dr. DM Motiang
Tel: (012) 672 9147.
Conclusion
The Kaonafatso ya Dikgomo Internship Programme by ARC-AP is more than just a work opportunity — it’s a chance to actively contribute to South Africa’s agricultural transformation and rural development agenda. This role offers real-world experience, professional growth, and an impactful career path in the agricultural sciences sector.
If you’re ready to be part of a forward-thinking, research-driven environment and want to help empower local farming communities through knowledge and data, this is your moment. Choose your province, apply now, and help build a sustainable livestock future.