South Africans with experience in community engagement, facilitation, report writing and public participation now have an exciting opportunity to contribute to one of the country’s most significant citizen-led initiatives. The National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) has officially opened applications for 240 short-term contract opportunities under the National Dialogue of South Africa 2026.
The recruitment drive includes 120 Facilitator positions and 120 Rapporteur positions, offering successful applicants the chance to support dialogue sessions that will help shape South Africa’s future through inclusive community participation.
National Dialogue South Africa 2026 Opportunity Overview
| Opportunity: National Dialogue of South Africa 2026
| Organisation: National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC)
| Programme: National Dialogue of South Africa
| Total Positions: 240
| Facilitators: 120
| Rapporteurs: 120
| Contract Type: Short-term Contract
| Placement: All Provinces in South Africa
| Application Method: Email
| Best Before: 09 July 2026
About the National Dialogue of South Africa
The National Dialogue of South Africa is a nationwide initiative that aims to bring citizens together to discuss important social, economic and developmental issues affecting communities across the country.
Supported by NEDLAC, the programme creates safe and inclusive spaces where South Africans can exchange ideas, identify challenges and contribute practical recommendations that support national renewal. The programme promotes active citizenship, community participation and collaborative problem solving while ensuring every voice has an opportunity to be heard.
Available Opportunities
Applicants may apply for one of the following positions:
- Facilitator (120 Positions)
- Rapporteur (120 Positions)
Both opportunities are available across all provinces.
- Facilitator Opportunities
Position Summary
- Facilitators will lead community dialogue sessions and ensure discussions remain respectful, inclusive and productive.
- They will encourage participation from all community members while ensuring that every dialogue follows the National Dialogue principles.
Contract Information
| Position | Facilitator |
| Posts Available | 120 |
| Contract | Short-term |
| Placement | Nationwide |
| Payment | R1 500 per dialogue |
Main Responsibilities of Facilitators
Successful candidates will:
- Facilitate ward and sector dialogue sessions
- Create inclusive discussion environments
- Encourage equal participation
- Guide respectful conversations
- Manage conflict professionally
- Support people living with disabilities during discussions
- Promote constructive engagement
- Work closely with assigned Rapporteurs
- Attend orientation and briefing sessions
- Ensure dialogue principles are maintained
National Dialogue Principles
Facilitators will be expected to uphold:
- Neutrality
- Respect
- Inclusivity
- Ubuntu
- Confidentiality
- Trauma informed facilitation
- Ethical conduct
Facilitator Requirements
Applicants should have:
- Experience facilitating community meetings
- Experience leading workshops or consultations
- Active involvement in community work within the last two years
- Fluency in at least two South African official languages
- Strong communication skills
- Excellent listening skills
- Conflict resolution abilities
- Emotional intelligence
- Cultural awareness
- Ability to remain impartial
Important Eligibility Notice
The following applicants are not eligible for paid Facilitator positions:
- National Government employees
- Provincial Government employees
- Municipal employees
- National Dialogue Steering Committee members
Facilitator Remuneration
Successful Facilitators will receive:
- R1 500 per completed dialogue
Payment will be processed after:
- Completion of assigned dialogue
- Submission of reports
- Submission of supporting documentation
- Approval by the National Dialogue Secretariat
- Rapporteur Opportunities
Position Summary
Rapporteurs are responsible for documenting dialogue sessions accurately and producing structured reports that reflect discussions objectively.
Their reports will contribute to the overall National Dialogue outcomes and future policy discussions.
Contract Information
| Position | Rapporteur |
| Posts Available | 120 |
| Contract | Short-term |
| Placement | Nationwide |
| Payment | R2 500 per dialogue |
Main Responsibilities of Rapporteurs
Successful applicants will:
- Record dialogue discussions
- Take detailed notes
- Capture differing viewpoints
- Document recommendations
- Produce structured reports
- Prepare objective summaries
- Verify information with Facilitators
- Maintain confidentiality
- Follow approved reporting templates
- Record dialogue sessions using a recording device
Rapporteur Requirements
Applicants should have at least one year of experience in:
- Minute taking
- Report writing
- Transcription
- Documentation
- Rapporteur duties
Applicants should also possess:
- Excellent English writing skills
- Fluency in at least one additional South African official language
- Strong listening ability
- Accurate note taking skills
- Ability to remain neutral
- Good organisational skills
Rapporteur Remuneration
Successful Rapporteurs will receive:
- R2 500 per completed dialogue
Payment will be made after:
- Submission of reports
- Approval by the National Dialogue Secretariat
- Completion of assigned dialogue
Who Should Apply?
These opportunities are ideal for:
- Community Development Practitioners
- NGO Professionals
- Social Workers
- Public Administration Graduates
- Human Rights Practitioners
- Researchers
- Youth Development Practitioners
- Local Government Professionals
- Educators
- Community Leaders
- Mediators
- Civil Society Organisations
- Policy Researchers
- Report Writers
- Workshop Facilitators
Individuals with experience leading meetings, facilitating public engagement or producing professional reports are encouraged to apply.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified South African ID copy
- Relevant qualifications
- Proof of facilitation or report writing experience
- Supporting documents requested in the official advertisement
Ensure that all documents are clear and up to date before submitting your application.
How to apply for National Dialogue South Africa 2026 Opportunity
Applications must be submitted via email.
Email Address: NDRecruitment@nedlac.org.za
Applicants should include all required supporting documents and carefully follow the application instructions contained in the official advertisement.
Why This Opportunity Matters
The National Dialogue provides an opportunity for South Africans to contribute directly to meaningful conversations that influence community development and national priorities. Participants will help ensure that voices from every community are documented accurately and represented fairly throughout the dialogue process.
This initiative also allows professionals to strengthen their facilitation, leadership, communication and documentation experience while contributing to national development.
Tips for a Strong Application
To improve your chances of being shortlisted:
- Submit your application before the deadline.
- Highlight facilitation or report writing experience.
- Demonstrate community involvement.
- Include examples of workshops or meetings you have facilitated.
- Showcase strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ensure your CV is updated and professionally formatted.
- Double check your contact details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many opportunities are available?
- There are 240 positions available.
How many Facilitator positions are available?
- There are 120 Facilitator positions.
How many Rapporteur positions are available?
- There are 120 Rapporteur positions.
How much do Facilitators earn?
- Facilitators receive R1 500 per completed dialogue.
How much do Rapporteurs earn?
- Rapporteurs receive R2 500 per completed dialogue.
Can government employees apply?
- Government employees and Steering Committee members are not eligible for paid Facilitator positions.
Where are the opportunities available?
- The programme is available across all provinces in South Africa.
When do applications close?
- Applications close on 09 July 2026.
Final Thoughts
Whether your expertise lies in facilitation, community development, report writing or public participation, these short-term contract opportunities provide a meaningful way to contribute to national dialogue while earning competitive remuneration.
