Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to improve the lives of people and build resilient nations. The organization focuses on various areas, including democratic governance, sustainable development, and climate change, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP Ethiopia specifically implements its Country Programme Document (CPD) for 2025–2030, which supports Ethiopia’s Ten Year Development Plan and HomeGrown Economic Reform agenda, emphasizing macroeconomic restructuring, climate change, peacebuilding, and governance reforms.

Job Overview:
The internship at UNDP Ethiopia is designed to provide a comprehensive experience aligned with the UNDP Strategic Plan for 2025–203

• Interns will support UNDP’s integrated development portfolio, gaining exposure across various programs, operations, and partnerships. The internship aims to enhance the intern's understanding of how national priorities are translated into development programs, while also developing skills in research, data analysis, communications, and policy engagement. Interns will work on thematic research, assist in the development of program briefs, and contribute to results reporting, among other tasks, thereby gaining practical experience within the UN development system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of the assigned team leader, the intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: contributing to thematic research; supporting the development of integrated program briefs and concept notes; mapping relevant partners in government, UN, private sector, and civil society; preparing materials for coordination meetings; assisting with data collection and SDG indicator tracking; drafting minutes and event documentation; supporting the organization of learning events and workshops; and contributing to the digitalization of processes to enhance transparency and efficiency. The intern will also carry out any other related tasks assigned by the supervisor as agreed.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements at the time of application: be enrolled in a postgraduate degree program in relevant fields such as political science, international relations, development studies, or related disciplines; be in the final year of a first university degree program; have recently graduated with a university degree; or be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program. Additionally, technical skills in data analysis tools and familiarity with digital innovation concepts are desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a background in fields such as political science, international relations, development studies, peace and conflict studies, governance, public policy, law, software engineering, climate and environmental science, engineering, economics, logistics, management, communication, or related disciplines. Enrollment in a postgraduate degree program or the final year of a bachelor's degree program is required, or recent graduation from such programs is acceptable.

Experience:
The internship requires candidates to have some technical skills, particularly in data analysis tools like Excel, Power BI, R, or SPSS. Familiarity with digital innovation, AI, or sustainable finance concepts is also desirable. Strong writing, editing, and presentation skills are important for this role, as the intern will be expected to contribute to various documentation and reporting tasks.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the local language. Knowledge of additional local languages and other UN languages would be considered an asset, enhancing the intern's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse environment.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and interns are considered gratis personnel, meaning they cannot represent UNDP in any official capacity. A stipend will be provided according to UNDP rules, and interns must have valid medical insurance. The internship is not intended to lead to further employment with UNDP, and there should be no expectation of employment at the end of the internship. Interns will also undertake a Capstone Assignment as part of their internship, demonstrating integrated learning across UNDP Ethiopia’s CPD priority areas. The application process requires submission of an updated CV, cover letter, and clear information on academic status.