Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every individual has access to reproductive health services and that their rights are upheld. The organization is committed to achieving three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet needs for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to health services and rights, while also promoting the principles of human rights and ethical standards in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Intern position at UNFPA is designed for individuals who are eager to contribute to the organization's mission while gaining valuable experience in procurement, administration, and logistics. The intern will work under the guidance of the UNFPA Representative and the Procurement and Logistics Officer, ensuring the efficient functioning of records systems that support program and office management. The role is crucial in building a strong knowledge base for the country office and involves a variety of tasks that contribute to the overall effectiveness of UNFPA's operations. Interns are expected to demonstrate exceptional resource management skills and a commitment to delivering excellence in program results, aligning with UNFPA's strategic goals and values.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of duties across procurement, administration, human resources, office store management, and finance. In procurement, the intern will prepare authorization documents for customs clearance, conduct physical verification of inventories, coordinate procurement meetings, and monitor the procurement of office supplies. In administration, the intern will assist with visa requests, data collection for reporting, asset management, and updating recruitment plans. The office store management duties include categorizing materials, reporting overstayed items, and preparing projections for office supplies. In finance, the intern will manage VAT claims, reconcile ledgers, prepare tax invoices, and follow up on VAT refunds. Additionally, the intern may perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor, contributing to a dynamic and supportive work environment.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the internship, candidates must meet specific educational and eligibility requirements. They should be enrolled in a first university degree program and have completed one full academic year, be enrolled in a postgraduate degree program, or have recently graduated with a university degree. Candidates must demonstrate a strong interest in development, proficiency in at least one of the UN's working languages (English or French), and fluency in the official languages of the UNFPA office. Additionally, candidates should exhibit adaptability to new environments and the ability to maintain good working relationships with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a minimum of an Advanced Diploma or equivalent in Finance, Accounting, Procurement, or Business Administration. This educational background is essential for understanding the financial and administrative aspects of the internship role, enabling the intern to effectively contribute to the organization's objectives.

Experience:
While prior work experience is not mandatory, candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and writing skills, initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to work harmoniously with colleagues from various cultural backgrounds. Full computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft applications, is required, along with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines. Fluency in English and Swahili is essential, and knowledge of additional UN languages is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Kiswahili is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in other UN languages is advantageous and may enhance the candidate's suitability for the role, given the diverse linguistic environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their living expenses, accommodation, travel, and other requirements. However, a stipend may be provided to help cover basic daily expenses if the intern is not financially supported by an institution. Interns must also have medical insurance for the duration of their internship, as UNFPA does not provide this coverage. The organization emphasizes a commitment to gender equality, diversity, and a healthy work-life balance, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Selection and appointment may be subject to background checks, and UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application process.