If you are passionate about Creative Writing, Literature, and building an academic career, this opportunity could be your gateway into higher education.
The Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme (NESP) at Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley, Northern Cape, is now open for applications.
Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme Overview
- Position: Internship (Postgraduate Development Programme)
- Division: Faculty of Humanities
- Business Unit: Languages and Communication
- Location: Kimberley, Northern Cape
- Closing Date: 13 March 2026
About the NESP Programme
The Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme (NESP) is an initiative of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). It is designed to:
- Develop young academics
- Support postgraduate studies
- Build future lecturers and researchers
- Strengthen transformation in higher education
At Sol Plaatje University, the programme is hosted within the Centre for Creative Writing and African Languages (CCWAL).
What Makes This Opportunity Great?
This is a fully funded academic development programme structured as follows:
- Two-Year Master’s Degree in Creative Writing
- You will complete a Master’s qualification in Creative Writing.
- One-Year Internship at Sol Plaatje University
- Gain hands-on academic experience.
- Develop as a lecturer, tutor, and researcher.
This means you don’t just study, you are groomed for a long-term career in academia.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
- A minimum 65% average in an appropriate NQF Level 8 qualification
- Creative Writing or Literature as a major (including Creative Writing modules)
- Be 35 years or younger
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
Recommended Skills
While not compulsory, the following will strengthen your application:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Good computer skills
- Strong organisational and planning abilities
What You Will Be Doing
During the programme, you will be exposed to real academic responsibilities, including:
- Lecturing – Assisting with teaching undergraduate students
- Tutoring – Supporting students academically
- Mentoring – Guiding and motivating learners
- Research – Contributing to academic research outputs
- Community Engagement – Participating in outreach initiatives
- Administrative Duties – Supporting academic processes
This experience prepares you for roles such as:
- University Lecturer
- Academic Researcher
- Curriculum Developer
- Academic Programme Coordinator
- Creative Writing Specialist
- Language Practitioner
Why Consider an Academic Career?
Many Creative Writing graduates struggle to find structured career pathways. This programme offers:
- A funded Master’s qualification
- Academic mentorship
- Professional development
- Practical teaching experience
- Entry into the higher education sector
It is a strategic stepping stone into long-term academic employment.
About Sol Plaatje University
Located in Kimberley in the Northern Cape, Sol Plaatje University is one of South Africa’s newer universities and is known for:
- Strong focus on Humanities and African Languages
- Transformation and academic development
- Student-centred learning
- Research growth and innovation
Being part of SPU means contributing to a developing institution with national impact.
Related: Cosmopolitan Central June/July 2026 Internships
Application Deadline
Applications close on 13 March 2026.
Due to the competitive nature of NESP placements, applicants are encouraged to:
- Prepare academic transcripts early
- Ensure qualification averages are clearly reflected
- Update your CV to highlight writing and research experience
- Prepare a strong motivational statement focused on an academic career
If you are serious about becoming a lecturer, researcher, or scholar in Creative Writing, this opportunity is designed for you.
