Communications and Knowledge Management Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The organization is dedicated to coordinating the development of environmental policy consensus, keeping the global environment under review, and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP operates in multiple countries and has a significant number of employees working towards its mission of fostering sustainable development through sound environmental practices.

Job Overview:
The Communications and Knowledge Management Intern will play a crucial role in supporting the Global Peatlands Initiative (GPI), which aims to protect peatlands as the world’s largest carbon stock. The intern will work within the Biodiversity, Landscapes and People Unit of UNEP’s Ecosystems Division, assisting in the execution of communications and knowledge management tasks related to the GPI Phase II project. This position requires a proactive individual who can contribute to enhancing the visibility and effectiveness of the initiative through various communication channels and knowledge management strategies. The intern will be expected to engage with diverse stakeholders, draft content for various platforms, and support the organization of meetings and workshops, thereby facilitating collaboration and information sharing among partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at supporting the communications and knowledge management efforts of the GPI. Specific duties include: regularly updating and enhancing the GPI Knowledge Management tracker, creating fact sheets, and developing resources for speeches, presentations, and videos; drafting and updating content for the UNEP-peatlands page and the GPI website; writing news articles or blogs on topics related to peatlands restoration and conservation; assisting in the preparation of GPI Steering Committee meetings and other partnership meetings; organizing ad hoc meetings, workshops, and teleconferences, including preparing agendas, summaries, and follow-up communications; providing communication liaison within the GPI Partnership and with the public; and undertaking other tasks as required based on the intern's interests and experience.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements: (a) be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); (b) be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor's degree or equivalent). Candidates should be pursuing qualifications in fields such as environmental sciences, environmental policy, biodiversity and conservation, or development studies, which are relevant to the responsibilities of the GPI project. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, possess excellent written and spoken communication skills, and show a keen interest in the work of the United Nations.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to have a background in environmental sciences, environmental policy, biodiversity and conservation, development studies, or a related field. Applicants should either be enrolled in a graduate program or have completed their undergraduate studies, ensuring they have the necessary academic foundation to contribute effectively to the GPI's objectives.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in environmental issues and the workings of the United Nations. Experience in communications, knowledge management, or related fields would be beneficial, as would any involvement in projects or initiatives focused on environmental conservation or sustainable development.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as it is the primary working language of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French and/or Spanish is considered desirable, as these languages are also used within the organization and can enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This internship is office-based in Nairobi, Kenya, and is expected to last for a duration of six months. It is important to note that interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and all costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Additionally, interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Kenya may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.