SLI NGCOBO GAINS VALUABLE INSIGHTS AT KZN DSD INTERNSHIP INDUCTION PROGRAMME

By Trevor Khuzwayo

• Sli Ngcobo has always been interested in communication and community development. Now she can put that passion into effect as a KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development intern.
• Her interest in the department was sparked by its strong social media presence and communication platforms, where she observed its dedication to serving the public.
• The young woman, a graduate of the Durban University of Technology, recently attended an intern induction workshop to learn more about the services provided by the department.

As part of her journey in the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development internship programme, Sli Ngcobo recently attended a two-day intern induction workshop in King Cetshwayo District.

The workshop provided her with a deeper understanding of the department’s structure, key programmes, and the vital role of public relations (PR) and media and communications in government operations.

Ngcobo, a PR management graduate from the Durban University of Technology Riverside campus, has always been passionate about communication and community development.

Raised in Pietermaritzburg, she attended Fezokuhle Primary School before continuing her education at a comprehensive secondary school in the area.

Her interest in the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development was sparked by its strong social media presence and communication platforms, where she observed its dedication to serving the public.

This alignment with her values motivated her to apply for the internship programme, and after a vigorous selection process, she was gratefully accepted into the communication services and stakeholder management directorate.

“When I received the call to be onboarded, I was overjoyed. It was an opportunity to put my studies into practice within a department that truly prioritises community service,” says Ngcobo.

Before joining the department, Ngcobo worked with the Gezobuhle Project, a non-government organisation in Pietermaritzburg that provides support for destitute children and foster youth.

This experience deepened her passion for helping vulnerable groups, making her transition into the department a natural step in her career.

Attending the intern induction workshop in King Cetshwayo District gave Ngcobo a broader perspective on government operations and service delivery. She now has a clearer understanding of the provincial department’s five key programmes (Programmes 1–5): administration; special programmes; children and families; restorative services; and research and development.

She now has an understanding of:

•       The department’s value proposition and value chain.
•       The role of PR within Programme 1 (administration and governance).
•       The significance of media, communication, and stakeholder relations in the public service.

“The induction has given me a holistic view of how government functions and how communication plays a crucial role in shaping public perception. It’s an ongoing learning process, but I feel more empowered than ever,” she explains.

Being part of the provincial department for the past three months has positively impacted Ngcobo professionally and personally. “Besides receiving a stipend that helps with daily needs, I have gained so much knowledge and exposure. I now understand that respect for colleagues, hard work, commitment, and focus are essential for career growth,” she reflects.

Ngcobo encourages fellow interns to make the most of their experience by:

•       Listening to supervisors and peers who align with the department’s vision.
•       Following proper guidance and implementing instructions effectively.
•       Staying committed, proactive, and open to continuous learning.

Ngcobo is excited about what the future holds as she continues her journey. “This internship has been an eye-opening experience, and I look forward to growing within the department,” she concludes.

Her dedication and enthusiasm emphasises the importance of internships in bridging education with real-world experience, proving that young professionals can thrive in public service while making a meaningful impact in their communities.