Maternal Health Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on reproductive health and rights, aiming to ensure that 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, employing approximately 4,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to expanding choices and possibilities for women and young people to lead healthy and productive lives, with a mission that emphasizes the importance of maternal health, family planning, and gender equality.

Job Overview:
The Maternal Health Intern will work under the direct supervision of the SRHR Regional Advisor at the UNFPA Asia-Pacific Regional Office (APRO). This role is crucial in supporting the implementation of key activities aligned with the UNFPA Strategic Plan 2026-2030, particularly focusing on achieving the transformative result of zero preventable maternal deaths by 203

• The intern will engage in a structured work-plan that includes agreed tasks and deliverables, as well as learning opportunities that enhance their skills and capacity in areas related to UNFPA’s mandate. The internship will provide a platform for the intern to contribute to significant projects while gaining valuable insights into the workings of UNFPA and its impact on maternal health across the Asia-Pacific region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for providing high-quality support to the SRHR Advisor in various aspects of maternal health program implementation. Key activities include managing a literature review on perinatal mental health in ASEAN countries, conducting quantitative and qualitative interviews, analyzing responses, and drafting a publication for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. The intern will also align gender and maternal health approaches by collaborating with the SRHR and Gender Teams to identify areas for synergy and co-create communication documents for broader dissemination. Additional tasks may be assigned based on project requirements and learning opportunities.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in a postgraduate degree program, be in the final year of a bachelor's degree program, have recently graduated with a relevant degree, or be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and writing skills, initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to work harmoniously in a multicultural environment. Fluency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of additional languages is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate will have an educational background in public health, medicine, midwifery, health sciences, social sciences, development studies, or other related fields. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of maternal health and the broader context of reproductive health issues.

Experience:
Some experience working with development agencies, including volunteer roles, is preferred. This experience will help the intern navigate the dynamics of working within an international organization and contribute effectively to the team's objectives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Knowledge of other languages is advantageous and may enhance the intern's ability to communicate and collaborate with diverse stakeholders across the region.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their living expenses, accommodation, travel, and other requirements. However, a small stipend may be provided to assist with basic daily expenses if the intern is not financially supported by an institution. Interns must also have medical insurance for the duration of the internship, with proof of insurance required before starting. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process.