The Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI) has opened an exciting opportunity for unemployed graduates in KwaZulu-Natal. With 600 Graduate Research Data Collector positions available, this programme is designed to provide young graduates with practical exposure in the research field while supporting MKRI’s mandate to drive innovation, research, and economic development in the province.
About MKRI and Its Mandate
The MKRI plays a strategic role in stimulating sustainable economic growth in KwaZulu-Natal through research, development, and innovation. The institute also leads maritime coordination initiatives and ensures research-based solutions are implemented to meet the province’s needs. By employing graduates as data collectors, MKRI is not only investing in the province’s knowledge economy but also addressing youth unemployment challenges.
Opportunity Overview
- Number of Posts: 600
- Location: Durban (MKRI Office) and across various district municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal
- Rate: R350 per day
- Target Group: Unemployed South African graduates aged 18–35, preferably residing in KwaZulu-Natal
This large-scale recruitment drive highlights MKRI’s commitment to empowering young people with valuable workplace skills while ensuring accurate and ethical data collection to inform provincial development strategies.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Hold an NQF Level 6–8 qualification in any field
- Possess a valid driver’s licence
- Be computer literate
- Own a working smartphone
- Be fluent in both English and IsiZulu
Added Advantages:
- An NQF 8 qualification
- Ability to travel independently
- Previous experience in data collection or familiarity with data collection tools
Essential Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate must demonstrate:
- Strong communication skills – confidently engaging with respondents and explaining survey questions
- Attention to detail – ensuring accuracy in recording and capturing data
- Time management skills – meeting deadlines while managing assigned tasks
- Ethical conduct – maintaining confidentiality and following research protocols
- Teamwork – working collaboratively with fellow data collectors and supervisors
Key Responsibilities
Successful candidates will be required to:
- Conduct field data collection in designated municipalities
- Administer surveys and questionnaires with professionalism and accuracy
- Record and capture data using paper-based or digital tools
- Verify and cross-check data for completeness and accuracy
- Uphold ethical research standards, ensuring confidentiality and informed consent
- Follow all project guidelines, timelines, and instructions from supervisors
- Report progress regularly to the MKRI research team
- Maintain professional conduct when interacting with community members and stakeholders
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply by submitting their applications to: https://forms.gle/j5j7NQG2YYeec4646.
The application must clearly state the position applied for and the corresponding reference number on the subject line must include a detailed copy of a CV, recently certified copies of (1) ID, (2) driver’s license and (3) certified copies of relevant qualifications (not older than 6 months). Applicants are to ensure that they submit all required documentation stated above, as failure to do so may lead to disqualification of the application during the selection process.
DOWNLOAD THE MKRI GRADUATE RESEARCH DATA COLLECTORS ADVERT HERE
Why This Opportunity Matters
This initiative is more than just a temporary job—it is a gateway for graduates to gain valuable field research experience. With the high number of positions available, many young people in KwaZulu-Natal will have the chance to apply their academic knowledge, develop new skills, and make a meaningful contribution to the province’s development agenda.
If you are an unemployed graduate eager to enter the research field, this programme offers a well-paying daily rate, structured responsibilities, and exposure to large-scale data projects that can significantly boost your career prospects.
CLOSING DATE: 25 AUGUST 2025
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