JET intern reflections this Youth Month
This Youth Day, JET Education Services spotlights four interns: Gugulethu Twala (Research Intern), Nyikiwa Shishenge (Monitoring and Evaluation Intern), Pamela Khuzwayo (Research Intern), and Zamokuhle Manqele (Knowledge Management Intern). This article highlights their contributions and shares how they have been at the centre of real, impactful work at JET.
They were asked to share some of the key activities they have been involved in during their internship at JET:
“Since joining JET, one of the key projects I have contributed to has provided me with exposure to the contextual and institutional factors that shape the nature of support offered to primary schools in under-resourced communities. My responsibilities included data management and coding, which enhanced my research capabilities and my understanding of the study's objectives and findings,” added Nyikiwa.
“I had the privilege of being part of a dynamic team tasked with planning the Embracing our neXt Strategy Workshop. I gained insights into the processes involved in organising a successful event,” added Zamokuhle.
They shared some of their most impactful and memorable experiences. Pamela described one of the most memorable and impactful experiences of her internship was a visit to Botswana. Being immersed in programme design allowed her to see firsthand how strategic and innovative solutions can shape learning outcomes. This exposure helped her identify, early in her internship, the key skills she wanted to develop to contribute more meaningfully to the projects she was involved in.
They also reflected on how the work at JET has helped them understand the broader education landscape in South Africa.
Gugulethu shared, “My time at JET has given me a deeper understanding of South Africa’s education landscape beyond what you see in classrooms. I’ve seen how data, research, and policy all come together to support schools and improve learner outcomes… It’s made me realise that transforming education isn’t just about ideas, it’s about systems, partnerships, and consistency on the ground.”
Nyikiwa also shared, “One of the most impactful experiences during my time at JET was my initial involvement in an evaluation project. This opportunity not only introduced me to various evaluation methodologies but also connected me with a team of supportive and knowledgeable colleagues. Their guidance and encouragement greatly facilitated my transition into the organisation and helped me navigate unfamiliar tasks with confidence.”
When asked what advice they would give to other young people starting internships or early career roles, their responses were:
“There is nothing in this world without challenges. You will encounter difficulties during your internships, but these challenges are meant to teach you and foster your growth. It is important to respect the people you work with, value your work, and enjoy your time at the workplace,” said Zamokuhle.
“You are going to make mistakes, relax!” added Gugulethu.
Pamela added, “It’s also important to maintain a healthy balance between your work and personal life. Prioritise your mental well-being; it’s just as important as your performance. Take full advantage of every learning opportunity. Don’t shy away from challenges, embrace them as moments to learn, adapt, and grow.”
As we mark Youth Month, these reflections from our interns remind us that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are actively shaping education today. At JET, we are proud to walk this journey with them, learning from their insight and fresh perspectives.
