Concern Regarding Age Restrictions for Internship Opportunities

Dear Honorable

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally express my deep concern regarding the age restrictions imposed on internship programs across various sectors in South Africa. As a citizen from a previously disadvantaged region in the City of Johannesburg, I have faced significant obstacles in securing meaningful work experience due to these limitations.

I graduated with my first degree at the age of 34 and, by 35, I was pursuing my Honours degree. Unfortunately, by the time I was eligible and ready to apply for internship opportunities, I was already considered too old, as most programs impose a cut-off age of 35. This restriction has unfairly excluded individuals like myself who, due to socio-economic challenges, had delayed access to higher education and career development opportunities.

Internships play a crucial role in equipping graduates with practical experience, yet the current age policies fail to acknowledge those of us who have had to overcome systemic disadvantages before completing our studies. This creates a cycle where older graduates, despite their qualifications, remain unemployable due to a lack of experience, perpetuating inequality and limiting economic participation.

I respectfully urge your office to review and consider revising these age-based restrictions for internships. A more inclusive approach would align with the principles of equal opportunity and redress the disparities faced by many South Africans who come from historically marginalized backgrounds.

I would appreciate any guidance on how this issue can be addressed or escalated for policy review. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,
Mbongeni Tshabalala