Trainee Programme

Trainee Programme

The BER Economist Internship Programme provides practical training to appropriately qualified previously disadvantaged individuals. The programme equips trainees to function as economists in the private and/or the public sector. The one-year programme affords candidates the opportunity to work alongside BER economists to gain experience in all aspects of business-oriented economic analysis. Since the inception of the programme in 2006, the BER has trained many economists, pursuing careers at South Africa’s leading financial institutions, the South African Reserve Bank, the National Treasury and other leading research institutes.

This is what some of them have to say:

"Working at the BER fulfilled me intellectually and was the best start to shaping me as one of the best analysts in the world."
– Sello Sekele

"The BER awarded me with the best foundation to my career in economics. Having worked and interacted with some of the most qualified economists in the country, in a much credible institution, I got to learn about the practical side of economics which is not taught at school. Great leaning experience! "
– Andiswa Mdingi

"Participating in the BER internship equipped me with a unique set of skills that every economist needs to empower themselves. The experience alone is priceless and I would highly recommend any young aspiring economist to go for it. "
– Kgotso Morema

"My year at the BER was an unforgettable adventure. I received invaluable on-job-training from some of the best economist in the country, laying a solid foundation for my career as an economist. I will forever be grateful for my experience at the BER!"
– Mpho Rapapali

"My year at the BER was an invaluable experience and allowed me to gain a wealth of knowledge while working with some of the best research economists in South Africa. The internship is also a great springboard from university into a career, as the structure of the programme allows for intense on-the-job learning."
– Janine Boshoff

"The bureau has offered me a wonderful opportunity through its systematic and defined approach to economic research and application, the internship has established a solid foundation for my career in economics."
– Mamello Matikinca

"A solid bridge between the varsity textbooks and sound economic practice – that’s what the BER internship programme’s been to me. Highly recommended to any young aspiring economist. "
– Lulama Mboji

"My internship year at the Bureau was both intense and gratifying. The hard work in that year laid the foundation for my future years. There couldn’t have been a better place to kick start my career in economics; the BER offers the best learning opportunity, with the entire BER family supporting us throughout the year. "
– Muhammed Paruk

"If you looking for an opportunity to immerse yourself in the practical application of economics, develop yourself, take responsibility for your growth and become involved in high level economic analysis, then consider the BER Economist Internship Programme. It is right up there with the best training programmes in the country. "
– Nkanyiso Hlongwa