IC - Nat. Consultant for the National Internship Programme – Ministry of Labour

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and has a workforce of over 17,000 employees worldwide.

Job Overview:
The position of National Consultant for the National internship-programme" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Internship Programme involves providing expert support to the Ministry of Labour, Solidarity, and Social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security in Sao Tome and Principe. The consultant will play a crucial role in organizing and implementing the National Internship Programme, which aims to enhance the employability of young people through practical work experience. The consultant will be expected to collaborate closely with government officials, stakeholders, and other partners to ensure the successful execution of the programme. This role requires a deep understanding of the local labor market, youth employment challenges, and the ability to design effective internship frameworks that align with national development goals. The consultant will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating the programme's impact, providing recommendations for improvements, and ensuring that the programme meets its objectives within the specified timeframe.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Consultant include but are not limited to:

• Conducting a comprehensive assessment of the current internship landscape in Sao Tome and Principe, identifying gaps and opportunities for improvement.
• Developing a strategic plan for the National Internship Programme, including objectives, target groups, and implementation strategies.
• Collaborating with the Ministry of Labour and other stakeholders to design internship frameworks that meet the needs of both interns and employers.
• Facilitating training sessions and workshops for employers and interns to enhance their understanding of the internship process and expectations.
• Establishing partnerships with private sector organizations, NGOs, and educational institutions to promote the internship programme and secure internship placements.
• Monitoring and evaluating the programme's implementation, collecting data on internship placements, and assessing the outcomes for participants.
• Preparing regular reports on the programme's progress and presenting findings to the Ministry and other stakeholders.
• Providing recommendations for policy adjustments and programme enhancements based on evaluation findings.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this position should possess the following qualifications:

• A strong background in labor market analysis, youth employment, or related fields.
• Proven experience in project management, particularly in the context of internship or employment programmes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Familiarity with the socio-economic context of Sao Tome and Principe and the challenges faced by young job seekers.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in social sciences, human resources, public administration, or a related field. A master's degree in a relevant discipline would be an advantage and may be preferred for this consultancy role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in project management, labor market analysis, or youth employment initiatives. Experience working with government agencies, international organizations, or NGOs in similar roles will be highly regarded.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory, as it is the official language of Sao Tome and Principe. Proficiency in English or French would be considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with international stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is expected to last from August 2025 to January 2026, with the possibility of extension based on performance and project needs. The consultant will work on a full-time basis, and the contract will be managed through the UNDP procurement system. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and in line with UNDP standards. The position may involve some travel within the country to engage with stakeholders and monitor programme implementation.