National Intern Programme - Communications and Operations

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and 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 thousands of staff members dedicated to advancing the health and rights of women and girls globally. The organization is committed to achieving transformative results in maternal health, family planning, and gender equality, as outlined in its strategic plan for 2022-2025, which emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to support the Programme, Communication, and Operations teams at UNFPA, focusing on areas such as programme management, monitoring and evaluation, sexual and reproductive health, population dynamics, and youth engagement. Interns will gain valuable experience while contributing to the organization's mission of improving health outcomes and rights for women and youth. The role is intended to enhance the capacity of the teams while providing interns with practical learning opportunities in a professional setting. Interns will be involved in various projects and initiatives that align with UNFPA's strategic goals, allowing them to develop skills in programme implementation and evaluation, communication strategies, and operational support.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for supporting various units within UNFPA, including Programme Monitoring and Evaluation, Integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health, Population Dynamics, Gender Programming, Adolescent and Youth, Operations, and Communications. Specific duties may include assisting in the development and implementation of programme activities, conducting research and analysis on relevant topics, preparing reports and presentations, participating in meetings and workshops, and collaborating with team members to achieve project objectives. Interns will also have the opportunity to engage with stakeholders and contribute to outreach efforts aimed at raising awareness about UNFPA's work and impact.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet specific educational requirements to be eligible for the internship programme. This includes being enrolled in a first university degree programme (such as a bachelor's degree) and having completed at least one full academic year, being enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme, or having recently graduated with a relevant university degree. Additionally, candidates may be enrolled in a postgraduate professional trainee programme and undertake the internship as part of this programme. Experience working with development agencies, even in a volunteer capacity, is preferred, along with strong analytical and writing skills, initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to work harmoniously with diverse teams.

Educational Background:
Applicants must be enrolled in or have recently graduated from a university degree programme. This includes those pursuing a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or equivalent higher education qualifications. The internship is designed for individuals who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of sexual and reproductive health and related areas, making it suitable for students and recent graduates in relevant disciplines such as public health, social sciences, international relations, or communications.

Experience:
While prior experience is not mandatory, candidates with some experience working with development agencies or in volunteer roles will be preferred. This experience can provide valuable insights into the workings of international organizations and enhance the intern's ability to contribute effectively to UNFPA's mission. The internship is particularly suited for individuals who are eager to learn and grow within a professional environment, especially those interested in the fields of public health, gender equality, and youth empowerment.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary working language of UNFPA. Additionally, proficiency in Kinyarwanda is required, given the local context of the internship. Knowledge of other official UN languages, particularly French, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's competitiveness for the role. Strong communication skills in multiple languages can facilitate collaboration and engagement with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid, and interns do not receive a salary or any other form of remuneration from UNFPA. Participants must cover their own living expenses, accommodation, travel, and other requirements. However, interns may receive a stipend to help with basic daily expenses if they are not financially supported by an institution or programme. It is essential for interns to have medical insurance for the duration of the internship, as UNFPA does not provide this coverage. The organization promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups. Selection and appointment may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements.