Internship: Bulletin / Sound Desk Writer / Reader (12825) needed at The South African Broadcasting Corporation

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Monitor, cut and capture newsworthy, interesting and memorable soundbites / audio quickly and accurately from all SABC sources, including live transmissions / streams, contracted / approved news services and packaged content.
• Communicate in advance with live programmes for running orders and inform the editor, especially of breaking news.
• Write short, crisp, precise, compelling and topical English stories with the best soundbites / audio to deadline and seek editorial advice when necessary.
• Use exact and appropriate language.
• Check and / or transcribe all soundbites / audio correctly and promptly.
• Contextualise stories properly to ensure clear understanding.
• Keep big news stories alive with fresh hooks, audio clips and regular updates.
• Rewrite strong angles with breaking / developing news and the latest information.
• Search reliable news and media sources for breaking stories, leads and new facts.
• Contact team members and / or newsmakers directly to verify information and meaning.
• Establish and maintain news networks and contacts.
• Check facts and soundbite / audio clarity to ensure high-quality and broadcast-worthy product.
• Liaise with editors, teams and technical support on news stories and soundbites / audio, including for advice, feedback and requirements.
• Conduct telephonic / online interviews and get voice-notes for soundbites / audio.
• Voice soundbites / audio reports whenever necessary.
• Correct any mistake immediately.
• Handle all enquiries and complaints professionally and timeously.
• Use multi-media platforms to promote news content and adhere to digital media guidelines.
• Ensure overall high quality, accuracy and balance of radio / audio news content, grammar, language and style.
• Adhere to South Africa’s Constitution, all broadcasting and other legislation, ICASA licence conditions and regulations, the BCCSA and Press Council codes and rulings, SABC editorial policies, SABC News style guide, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and organisational policies and procedures.

Requirements:

• National Diploma / Degree (NQF6/7) in Journalism or Media Studies or equivalent qualifications
• Have a good understanding of social media and its usefulness as a journalist tool
• Exceptional reading and writing skills
• Keep abreast of news and current affairs developments
• Excellent news sense and attention to detail
• Good and clear broadcast voice
• Sound understanding of current social, economic, and political trends
• Good ability to plan, organise and work in a team
• Ability and willingness to work under pressure, including long and irregular hours
• Good understanding of the news, media, and broadcasting environments