Economic Affairs Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) was established to promote the economic and social development of its member States, foster intraregional integration, and promote international cooperation for Africa's development. The organization operates in various countries across the African continent, focusing on enhancing the economic and social well-being of its member states through various initiatives and programs. UNECA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging applications from women and persons with disabilities, and aims to support the development of policies that foster sustainable growth and development in Africa.

Job Overview:
The Economic intern" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Affairs Intern position is situated within the Connectivity and Infrastructure Development Section (CIDS) of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). This internship is designed to provide practical experience in the field of economic affairs, particularly focusing on infrastructure development and connectivity in Africa. Interns will work full-time for a duration of three months, with the possibility of extension for an additional three months. The role requires a commitment to the ideals of the United Nations Charter and a keen interest in the organization's work. Interns will be supervised by experienced staff members and will contribute significantly to various projects and research initiatives within the section. The internship offers an opportunity to engage in analytical research, support the organization of webinars and training activities, and assist in developing guidelines for data-centre development in Africa. Interns will also gain exposure to the workings of the United Nations and its efforts to promote economic and social development across the continent.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Economic Affairs Intern include:

• Assisting Section officers in conducting analytical research and contributing to research papers on energy, water, and data centres in Africa. This involves collecting information, reviewing relevant literature, organizing data, and preparing initial summaries and background notes.
• Supporting Section officers in coordinating and organizing webinars by assisting with participant outreach, preparing draft agendas and background materials, helping with logistical and technical arrangements, and documenting key outcomes and follow-up action points.
• Assisting in coordinating and organizing training activities by preparing draft agendas, liaising with facilitators and partner institutions, arranging logistical and technical requirements, supporting session delivery, collecting participant feedback, and documenting outcomes and follow-up actions.
• Assisting Section officers in developing guidelines for data-centre development in Africa through background research, reviewing international and regional good practices, compiling relevant data and case studies, and supporting consultations with member States, private-sector stakeholders, development partners, and technical experts.
• Contributing to drafting, reviewing, and refining recommendations on enabling policies, digital and energy infrastructure, water use, environmental sustainability, investment, connectivity, cybersecurity, skills development, and regulatory frameworks for resilient, efficient, inclusive, and sustainable data-centre ecosystems across the continent.
• Carrying out other tasks as required by the Section and the Division.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements: (a) be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor's degree or equivalent). This ensures that candidates possess a solid academic foundation and are capable of contributing effectively to the work of the section.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes either being enrolled in or having completed a graduate school programme or being enrolled in or having completed the final academic year of a first university degree programme. This indicates that candidates should have a strong academic background relevant to the field of economic affairs, infrastructure development, or related disciplines.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position is primarily academic, as the internship is designed for students or recent graduates. While prior work experience is not explicitly required, candidates should demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to its ideals. Any relevant academic projects, research experience, or internships in related fields would be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, is considered an advantage and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The internship is not financially remunerated, meaning that interns will not receive a salary or stipend from the United Nations. Interns are responsible for their own costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. Additionally, interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Ethiopia may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. The United Nations emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women and persons with disabilities. Furthermore, it is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible to all candidates.