Online Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that operates in over 170 countries and territories, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities and exclusion. Established in 1964, UNDP has been actively working in Malawi to support the government, civil society, and private sector in achieving sustainable development goals. The organization focuses on economic growth, sustainable environmental management, and democratic governance, aligning its efforts with the Malawi Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 203

• UNDP's work in Malawi is structured around two main portfolios: Responsive Institutions and Citizen Engagement, and Resilience and Sustainable Growth, addressing issues of poverty, inequality, and vulnerability to shocks.

Job Overview:
The Online Volunteer position is designed to support the Communications and Programme teams at UNDP Malawi by providing structured media monitoring and analysis. The role involves daily and weekly monitoring of various Malawian media outlets, including online news platforms, radio summaries, newspapers, and social media. Volunteers will generate regular monitoring reports, synthesize key developments, and provide analytical insights that will guide decision-making processes. This position is crucial for tracking public discourse, identifying risks, and evaluating the visibility of UNDP's programs and initiatives in the media landscape. Volunteers will work closely with program staff to understand their information needs and produce tailored briefs that support program planning and advocacy efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Online Volunteer(s) will be responsible for conducting daily media monitoring of Malawian outlets, including online news platforms, radio summaries, newspapers, and verified social media accounts. They will compile daily and weekly summaries of key media stories, highlighting major themes, emerging risks, misinformation flags, and opportunities for engagement. Additionally, they will provide analytical commentary on trends and narratives affecting development work, identify shifts in public sentiment, and compare weekly developments to regional or global influences. Volunteers will engage with program teams to map specific topics within media coverage and produce tailored briefs to support program planning and risk identification. They will also participate in weekly online check-ins to discuss outputs and refine methodologies, adjusting monitoring focus areas based on evolving priorities. Deliverables include daily monitoring summaries, weekly comprehensive media reports, a final synthesis report, and a curated list of key media sources relevant to UNDP Malawi.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Online Volunteer position should possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to synthesize information from various media sources. They should have a good understanding of governance, development, climate issues, human rights, and economic trends relevant to UNDP's work. Familiarity with media monitoring tools and techniques is advantageous, as is experience in report writing and data analysis. Strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with program teams and presenting findings effectively.

Educational Background:
A background in communications, journalism, international relations, social sciences, or a related field is preferred for this position. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the media landscape and its impact on development work, as well as the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Experience:
While prior experience in media monitoring or analysis is beneficial, it is not strictly required. Candidates should demonstrate a willingness to learn and adapt to the dynamic media landscape in Malawi. Experience working in a volunteer capacity or with international organizations is a plus.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all reports and communications will be conducted in English. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Malawi may be advantageous but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and the duration of the assignment may vary based on the needs of the UNDP Malawi Country Office. The role is expected to be part-time, with flexibility in hours to accommodate the volunteer's schedule. Volunteers may have the opportunity to work remotely, depending on the specific tasks and requirements of the assignment.