Programme Interns

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to promote the rights of individuals to make informed choices about their reproductive health. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, particularly in areas related to family planning, maternal health, gender equality, and the empowerment of young people. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2026-2029 outlines its response to a complex global environment, emphasizing resilience and renewal in its operations. The organization employs a diverse workforce and values transparency, ethical conduct, and high-impact results in its programs.

Job Overview:
The Programme Interns at UNFPA Malawi Country Office will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the 9th Country Programme Document (CPD). This internship is designed to provide practical experience while contributing to the delivery of key interventions across youth, gender, and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Interns will work under the direct supervision of Programme Analysts and will be involved in various activities aimed at addressing critical issues such as teenage pregnancies, child marriage, and gender-based violence (GBV). The role involves providing technical, administrative, and logistical support to ensure effective program delivery and visibility. Interns will also contribute to the development of digital content and advocacy materials to enhance UNFPA's mission and impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be expected to assist in the development and implementation of UNFPA programme activities across youth, gender, SRHR, and visual communications. They will support the delivery of programme interventions related to adolescents and youth, GBV, and social norms, as well as other related SRHR programmes. Responsibilities include organizing workshops, training, outreach, and advocacy activities aimed at raising awareness on youth, gender, SRHR, HIV, and inclusion issues. Interns will conduct research on best practices and emerging trends, assist with programme monitoring activities, and prepare reports, meeting minutes, briefs, and documentation on activities and results. They will also contribute to the development of communication and visibility materials, including visual content, and support the creation of human-interest stories, newsletters, and social media content. Participation in team meetings and coordination of programme updates will also be part of their duties.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a demonstrated interest in youth development, gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), disability inclusion, and/or strategic communications. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with good interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented and multicultural environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Workspace applications is required. An added advantage would be basic skills or interest in graphic design, content creation, or digital communications tools.

Educational Background:
Applicants should be recent graduates from a relevant degree programme, such as social sciences, public health, youth and gender studies, communication, education, development studies, or related fields. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of the issues addressed by UNFPA.

Experience:
While prior experience is not mandatory, any relevant internships, volunteer work, or academic projects related to youth development, gender equality, or sexual and reproductive health will be considered an asset. The internship is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to meaningful work in the field of public health and social development.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both verbal and written, is mandatory for this position. Strong communication skills in English will enable interns to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the development of program materials and reports.

Additional Notes:
The internship will be compensated according to the UNFPA internship payment guidelines. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.