Internship at UNDP Global Centre for Technology, Innovation and Sustainable Development

Job Posting Organization:
The UNDP Global Centre for Technology, Innovation and Sustainable Development (GC-TISD) is a part of UNDP’s Digital, AI and Innovation (DAI) Hub. Established in 2019 as a joint initiative of the Government of Singapore and UNDP, the Centre aims to leverage digital, data, and systems innovation to support governments in addressing complex development challenges. It operates under the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) and is led by the UNDP Chief Digital Officer. The Centre engages a broad ecosystem of government agencies, private sector actors, academia, and thought leaders to connect policymakers, practitioners, and experts globally, facilitating the exchange of insights and co-creation of practical solutions that advance sustainable development. The Centre is now entering its 2025–2028 phase and focuses on identifying, co-creating, and scaling innovative technological solutions that contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
This internship at GC-TISD offers a unique opportunity for the intern to engage in a rich learning experience across various areas. The intern will gain in-depth insights and hands-on experience in sustainable development and technological innovation, understanding the intersection of cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices. The role will also involve policy development and strategic partnerships, acquiring skills in policy support and engaging with a global network of stakeholders. Additionally, the intern will learn about multilateralism and global collaboration, gaining insights into the workings of international cooperation and the role of multilateral organizations in addressing global challenges. The internship will involve supporting research and thought leadership, strategic advocacy and partnership development, event management, and learning and networking opportunities within UNDP and the broader Singapore ecosystem.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Research and Thought Leadership: Support the analysis of qualitative and quantitative data related to digital transformation, AI adoption, data governance, and digital public infrastructure, particularly in developing countries. Contribute to and co-author policy briefs, blogs, issue papers, and reports on digital, AI, and innovation for development. Assist in designing capacity-building and knowledge-exchange programs for UNDP Country Offices and government counterparts on digital transformation, responsible AI, and emerging technologies. Contribute to publications documenting the outcomes of the Centre’s Digital, AI, and Innovation workplan under the new partnership agreement.
• Strategic Advocacy and Partnership Development: Assist in identifying and engaging technology, AI, data, cybersecurity, and digital innovation partners in Singapore, the region, and globally.
• Event Management Support: Aid in the conceptualization, preparation, and delivery of webinars, workshops, and training related to digital transformation, AI, data, and innovation. Develop presentations, data visualizations, infographics, and other digital materials to showcase the Centre’s work on Digital, AI, and Innovation, including for flagship events and global engagements.
• Learning, Development, and Networking: Engage in learning and personal development opportunities within UNDP and participate in relevant digital, technology, and innovation events within UNDP and the broader Singapore ecosystem.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet one of the following educational requirements: Currently in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree; or currently enrolled in a Master’s degree; or have graduated no longer than 1 year ago from a bachelor’s or master’s degree or equivalent studies. The candidate should demonstrate a strong interest in how digital technologies, data, and artificial intelligence can improve public policy, governance, and service delivery, particularly in developing countries. Awareness of the opportunities and risks associated with digitalization, including issues such as digital inclusion, data governance, cybersecurity, and responsible use of AI is essential. Proven experience in synthesizing and communicating complex technical or policy topics through high-quality written products, presentations, or the organization of interactive webinars and knowledge-exchange activities is required. Familiarity with international development, public service delivery, or multilateral organizations is an advantage. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Teams) is necessary, and knowledge of data visualization and analysis tools (e.g., Canva, PowerBi, etc.) is an advantage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be currently in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree, currently enrolled in a Master’s degree, or have graduated no longer than 1 year ago from a bachelor’s or master’s degree or equivalent studies. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of digital technologies and their application in sustainable development and public policy.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to demonstrate a strong commitment to digital and AI for development, showcasing an interest in how these technologies can enhance public policy and governance, especially in developing countries. Candidates should exhibit an understanding of the challenges posed by digital transformation, including digital inclusion, data governance, and responsible AI usage. Experience in knowledge sharing and communication, particularly in synthesizing complex topics into accessible formats, is essential. Familiarity with international development contexts or experience working with multilateral organizations is considered an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both spoken and written) is required for this position. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered an advantage, as it may enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse international environment of UNDP.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, but UNDP will provide a stipend of approximately 859.13 SGD monthly in accordance with its internship policy. All other expenses related to the internship will be borne by the intern or their sponsoring government or institution. Interns are responsible for obtaining necessary visas and arranging travel to and from the duty station. They must provide proof of enrollment in a health insurance plan and are not eligible to apply for or be appointed to any post in UNDP during the internship period. Interns are expected to work full-time, although flexibility is allowed for educational commitments. They must be nationals of the duty station or hold a valid residency permit at the time of application. UNDP is committed to equal opportunity and creating an inclusive workplace, and it does not tolerate harassment or discrimination in any form.