Urban Development and Housing Intern

Urban Development and Housing Intern

United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UNHABITAT)

May 20, 2025June 2, 2025LibrevilleGabon
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is a global organization established by the UN General Assembly to promote sustainable urbanization and human settlements. It operates in over 90 countries, focusing on building inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities. UN-Habitat aims to reduce inequality, discrimination, and poverty through urbanization, and it has been actively engaged in various projects and programs worldwide. The organization has a significant presence in Gabon, where it addresses challenges related to urban growth, housing, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union's Agenda 2063.

Job Overview:
The Urban Development and Housing Intern will support UN-Habitat's initiatives in Gabon, particularly focusing on housing, spatial planning, and environmental management. The intern will work under the supervision of the Programme Management Officer responsible for the Central Africa Sub Regional Office. This internship is designed to provide practical experience in urban development and housing, emphasizing the importance of sustainable urbanization in addressing the challenges faced by rapidly urbanizing populations. The intern will engage in various tasks, including project concept development, communication with stakeholders, and support for capacity-building activities, all aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable urban development in Gabon.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will perform a wide range of tasks, including: assisting in identifying community opportunities and translating challenges into project concepts; supporting the preparation of meetings with potential partners and donors; developing communication and outreach tools; tracking key indicators and compiling data; assisting in preparing engineering-related calculations and design drawings; supporting fieldwork related to urban development projects; contributing to policy research and drafting reports; producing knowledge products and case studies; and providing administrative support for events and workshops. The intern will also be responsible for miscellaneous assignments as needed, ensuring a comprehensive engagement with UN-Habitat's portfolio.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: be enrolled in a graduate school program, be in the final academic year of a first university degree program, or have graduated with a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree. Candidates should be computer literate in standard software applications, demonstrate a keen interest in the work of the United Nations, and possess the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Preferred areas of study include Architecture, Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Community Mobilization, Public Health, and Geography. Effective communication skills, particularly in French, are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in or have completed a relevant degree program, such as a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in fields related to urban development, housing, or environmental management. The internship is open to students in their final year of study or recent graduates, emphasizing the importance of a strong academic background in relevant disciplines.

Experience:
While professional work experience is not required for this internship, applicants should have a field of study closely related to urban development and housing. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates, allowing them to gain practical experience in the field without prior professional experience being a prerequisite.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written French is required for this internship position, as it is the primary working language of the United Nations in this context. Knowledge of English or another UN language is desirable, enhancing the intern's ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's goals.

Additional Notes:
This internship is non-paid and full-time, with an expected duration of 6 months. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates should be aware of their visa requirements before accepting the internship offer.
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