Programme Management Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and works with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policy. UNEP's Ecosystems Division specifically focuses on strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. The Abidjan Convention, established in 1981, provides a regional cooperation framework for the protection, management, and development of the marine and coastal environment of the south-eastern Atlantic region, covering a coastline of just over 14,000 km from Mauritania to South Africa. UNEP hosts and administers the Secretariat of the Abidjan Convention, which addresses significant ecological challenges in the region, including rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and habitat degradation, while promoting sustainable practices to protect vital ecosystems and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Intern will be located within the Abidjan Convention Secretariat, which supports regional environmental cooperation and the implementation of programmes related to marine and coastal ecosystems, pollution prevention, and sustainable blue economy initiatives. The intern will work under the supervision of the Head of the Secretariat and will be expected to assist in various aspects of programme management, including coordination, research, and organization of meetings. The role is designed to provide the intern with hands-on experience in environmental policy implementation and project management within a global organization. The intern will be involved in developing, implementing, and evaluating assigned programmes/projects in collaboration with national executing entities, thereby contributing to the overall mission of UNEP in promoting sustainable environmental practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including assisting in the supervision and coordination of programme implementation, conducting desk research, and supporting the organization of internal and external meetings, webinars, and expert group meetings. They will be tasked with developing, implementing, and evaluating assigned programmes/projects, monitoring and analyzing programme/project development, and reviewing relevant documents and reports to identify issues and propose corrective actions. The intern will also be responsible for generating survey initiatives, designing data collection tools, and preparing written outputs such as background papers, analyses, and sections of reports. Additionally, the intern will assist in outreach activities, participate in field missions, and support budget-related activities, including preparing documents and reports related to programme/project funding. The role requires the intern to collect and analyze data to identify trends, develop project proposals, and liaise with various stakeholders throughout the proposal development process.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements at the time of application: they must be enrolled in a Master's or Ph.D. programme, be in the final year of a Bachelor's programme, or be within one year after graduation from a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. programme. The field of study should be related to communications, public relations, graphic design, or an equivalent discipline. This ensures that the intern possesses the necessary academic background to contribute effectively to the tasks assigned.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes enrollment in or completion of a degree in communications, public relations, graphic design, or a related field. This educational foundation is essential for the intern to effectively engage in the various responsibilities associated with the role, particularly in areas such as research, communication, and project management.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not explicitly required, the intern should demonstrate a strong understanding of environmental issues and project management principles. Experience in research, data analysis, and communication within an academic or professional context will be beneficial. The internship is designed for individuals who are either currently pursuing their studies or have recently graduated, thus providing an opportunity for practical experience rather than requiring extensive prior work experience.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is considered an advantage, which may enhance the intern's ability to communicate and collaborate in a diverse international environment.

Additional Notes:
Interns at the United Nations are not financially remunerated, and all costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Cote d'Ivoire may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. Additionally, it is emphasized that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.