Online Volunteer for NextGen Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that operates in 170 countries and territories with the mission to eradicate poverty while protecting the planet. Established to help countries develop strong policies, skills, partnerships, and institutions, UNDP aims to sustain progress towards sustainable development. In Kenya, UNDP focuses on eradicating poverty in the context of sustainable development, promoting the Sustainable Development Goals, and supporting democratic governance reforms. The organization plays a crucial role in the country's Vision 2030 Political Pillar, which seeks to transform political governance across various strategic areas, including the rule of law, electoral processes, and public service delivery. UNDP's work is anchored in the Constitution of Kenya, which was promulgated in August 2010, marking a significant milestone in the country's democratic journey and setting a new standard for people-centered development.

Job Overview:
The position of Online Volunteer for the NextGen Programme is designed to support UNDP Kenya in addressing the pressing issue of youth unemployment through an integrated initiative. This role involves engaging with the private sector, conducting labor market and skills gap analyses, and developing a preliminary partner roster to inform the design and implementation of the NextGen Programme. The volunteer will work under the supervision of the NextGen Programme Team and will be responsible for conducting desk research, identifying key trends in the private sector, and summarizing essential skills needed in the labor market. The overarching goal is to strengthen the linkages between youth and potential employers, ensuring that young people are equipped with the necessary skills to meet current and future job demands.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The online volunteer will undertake several key tasks, including:

• Conducting desk research on private sector engagement models relevant to youth employment and skills development.
• Identifying key private sector trends, priority industries, and emerging sectors that have high potential for youth employment.
• Supporting the development of engagement approaches for private sector participation in the NextGen Programme.
• Reviewing existing reports, labor market studies, and skills assessments related to youth employment in Kenya.
• Identifying key skills gaps between youth competencies and private sector labor market demands.
• Summarizing priority technical, digital, soft, and green skills relevant to current and future job markets.
• Identifying and mapping potential private sector partners, foundations, and corporate entities aligned with youth employment and skills development.
• Developing a preliminary roster/database of organizations that UNDP Kenya can engage with as the NextGen Programme is rolled out.
• Categorizing partners by sector, interest area, and potential contributions such as funding, mentorship, training, and job placements. By the end of the two-week engagement, the volunteer is expected to deliver a market and skills gap analysis summary, a mapped roster of private sector actors, and a briefing note with recommendations for private sector engagement.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this online volunteer position should possess strong research and analytical skills, with a keen interest in youth employment and skills development. Familiarity with private sector engagement models and labor market dynamics in Kenya is highly desirable. The candidate should also demonstrate the ability to synthesize information and present findings clearly and concisely. Proficiency in using digital tools for research and data analysis is essential, along with excellent communication skills to effectively engage with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates should ideally have a background in social sciences, economics, development studies, or a related field. A degree or ongoing studies in these areas will be beneficial for understanding the complexities of youth employment and skills development in the Kenyan context.

Experience:
While prior experience in a similar role is not mandatory, any relevant experience in research, project management, or engagement with the private sector will be considered an asset. The candidate should demonstrate a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work independently in a remote setting.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all tasks and communications will be conducted in English. Knowledge of Kiswahili or other local languages would be an advantage, as it may facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This is a two-week online volunteering assignment, which allows for flexibility in working hours. The position is suitable for individuals looking to gain experience in international development and youth employment initiatives. As this is a volunteer role, compensation is not provided, but the experience gained will be invaluable for those interested in pursuing a career in development work.