Listing Reference: 2025NewsIntern
Listing Status: Active

Position Summary
Company: Jacaranda FM in partnership with Voice of Wits (VowFM)
Industry: Media & Broadcasting
Job Category: News Journalism Internship
Location: Gauteng, Midrand & Johannesburg
Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract (12 Months)
Remuneration: Monthly Basic Stipend (Market Related)
EE Position: No
Closing Date: 20 June 2025

Introduction
Jacaranda FM, in partnership with the Voice of Wits (VowFM), is offering a remarkable 12-month News Internship Programme for 2025/2026. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to fostering youth skills development in South Africa’s broadcasting industry. This hands-on opportunity provides aspiring journalists with valuable exposure to both commercial and community radio station environments. The programme runs from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026 and is open to graduates with a qualification in journalism or a related field.

This internship is designed to develop professional media skills and expose successful candidates to the day-to-day operations of a newsroom. Interns will rotate every six weeks between Jacaranda FM (Midrand) and VowFM (Wits University in Johannesburg), ensuring holistic exposure to both mainstream and community-focused news production.

Job Description
Interns will be trained and mentored by seasoned industry professionals while participating in the following activities:

At Jacaranda FM, the intern’s responsibilities include:

• Assisting with news production across multiple departments
• Learning the foundational operations of a modern newsroom
• Supporting reporters and senior journalists in compiling accurate, engaging stories
• Reporting from the field to gather sound, visuals, and facts for live or recorded broadcasts
• Participating in the editorial process of scriptwriting and voicing for radio

At Voice of Wits (VowFM), the intern’s tasks include:

• Writing and reading daily news bulletins on air
• Researching and reporting on local and national stories from the field
• Producing packaged reports for current affairs programming
• Engaging in daily editorial planning meetings and assisting in story curation
• Regularly updating VowFM’s digital and social media platforms with accurate and relevant news
• Completing mandatory short courses through the Wits Radio Academy to enhance technical and theoretical broadcasting skills

Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a motivated, curious, and responsible graduate with a passion for news, current affairs, and broadcast journalism. They should be eager to learn, work well in a fast-paced environment, and be comfortable with travelling between Midrand and Johannesburg for work and training.

Minimum Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma (3-year) in Journalism or a related field
• A valid driver’s license (or currently in the process of obtaining one)
• Fluent in English with an excellent command of the language; bilingual in Afrikaans is a strong advantage
• Demonstrated ability to write and voice news scripts for radio
• Capable of fact-checking, verifying sources, and maintaining the highest editorial standards
• Basic understanding of audio editing, multi-track mixing, and studio equipment operation
• Familiarity with digital content creation and social media platforms
• Availability for full-time commitment, including attending short courses

Role Responsibility

• Learn the end-to-end functions of a newsroom across two radio stations
• Understand how stories are researched, compiled, edited, and broadcast
• Work collaboratively with journalists and editors to develop news content
• Develop strong editorial judgment, ethical reporting standards, and a deep understanding of South African media laws
• Gain experience in field reporting and studio-based journalism
• Enhance public speaking and broadcasting confidence through live and pre-recorded bulletins
• Utilize digital tools and editing software to package professional-grade content
• Commit to regular travel and work flexibility between two locations

Skills & Attributes

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proactive attitude and ability to work independently
• High level of attention to detail
• Interest in current affairs, social justice, and public interest journalism
• Commitment to learning and upskilling
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure in a deadline-driven environment
• Technologically savvy and willing to engage in multimedia journalism

Why This Internship Matters
In a time where the broadcasting industry seeks new talent with fresh perspectives and digital fluency, this internship programme provides critical hands-on experience. It prepares graduates for meaningful careers in journalism by immersing them in diverse environments and teaching them the practical and ethical considerations of the trade. Furthermore, it supports youth employment initiatives aligned with the government’s broader strategy, similar to how Eskom careers and Eskom vacancies empower youth in the energy sector through Eskom recruitment campaigns listed on the Eskom career website.

How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the closing date of 20 June 2025. Applications should include:

• A comprehensive CV
• Certified copy of ID
• Academic transcripts or qualification certificate
• A short motivation letter explaining why you are a suitable candidate for this internship

All applications must be submitted via the official platform or recruitment email provided by Jacaranda FM or Wits VowFM. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

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Conclusion
The Jacaranda FM and VowFM News Internship Programme is a powerful stepping stone into the broadcasting world. Through this initiative, successful applicants will gain first-hand newsroom experience and mentorship from media professionals. By rotating between a commercial and a community station, interns will broaden their understanding of South Africa’s diverse media landscape.

Whether you’re a recent graduate looking to get your foot in the door or an aspiring journalist seeking real-world newsroom experience, this internship is your chance to turn passion into profession. Much like how Eskom careers open doors in the energy industry, this internship serves as a launchpad into broadcast journalism.

Apply here