International Internship: Middle Income Country (MIC) Hub Policy & Programme Support Intern – Apply Before 26 May 2025
UNFPA INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Policy and Programme Support Intern – Middle-Income Country Hub (MIC-Hub), ESARO
Closing Date: Monday, 26 May 20
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the Policy and Programme Support Internship at the Middle-Income Country Hub (MIC-Hub) based in the East and Southern Africa Regional Office (ESARO). This internship offers a unique opportunity to work with a dynamic team committed to delivering transformative results in the areas of sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and sustainable development.
Overview
UNFPA is seeking candidates who are proactive, motivated, and committed to high-impact results. We value individuals who are effective stewards of entrusted resources and who aim for excellence in programme implementation. The intern will work under the direct supervision of the Head of the MIC-Hub, supporting a range of policy, research, and programme advisory activities for selected Country Offices in middle-income countries in Southern Africa: Botswana, Eswatini, Mauritius, Namibia, Seychelles, and South Africa.
A tailored work plan, outlining specific learning objectives and expected outcomes, will be developed at the start of the internship. Regular progress meetings will be held to ensure continuous learning and effective contribution.
Key Responsibilities
The intern will support the MIC-Hub team in the following areas:
- Monitoring trends and analyzing developments in the political, social, and economic contexts relevant to sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues in selected middle-income countries.
- Contributing to the development of policy briefs, research reports, and analytical documents aligned with the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action.
- Assisting in the design, implementation, and evaluation of technical cooperation programmes, particularly those aimed at strengthening national development planning and sustainable financing.
- Supporting the organization and coordination of trainings, stakeholder consultations, and events led by the MIC-Hub as per its annual work plan.
- Providing general support to the team and contributing to other tasks as assigned by the supervisor.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the internship, applicants must meet one of the following academic requirements at the time of application:
- Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme (e.g., Master’s or higher) at a recognized university.
- Be enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent programme at a recognized university.
- Have recently graduated (within the past 12 months) from a university degree programme, as defined above.
- Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship programme at a recognized university, and undertaking the internship as part of this programme.
Additionally, candidates must:
- Demonstrate a strong interest in international development, policy, and programme work related to UNFPA’s mandate.
- Have excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Knowledge of another official UN language, especially French or Spanish, is desirable.
- Exhibit the ability to adapt to new and diverse environments and work well with people from different cultural and professional backgrounds.
Note: Applicants who have immediate family members (parents, children, or siblings) employed by UNFPA are not eligible to apply.
Required Experience and Skills
- Strong research, analytical, and writing abilities.
- Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Interest in sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and public policy issues.
- Organizational skills and attention to detail.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the internship, the intern will have gained:
- A solid understanding of UNFPA’s mandate, operations, and governance.
- Exposure to programme planning and policy advisory work in a regional context.
- Practical experience in drafting and contributing to UN-level research and policy documents.
- Insights into development coordination and partnerships within the UN system.
- Networking opportunities with UN staff and external stakeholders.
- Experience working in a multicultural, professional environment.
- Enhanced familiarity with UN technical language, reporting standards, and coordination procedures.
Financial and Logistical Information
Interns do not receive a salary or other forms of remuneration from UNFPA. All costs related to participation must be borne by the intern or their nominating institution. However, UNFPA provides a stipend to interns who are not financially supported by an institution, scholarship, or government programme. The amount of the stipend will vary depending on the duty station.
Interns must have medical insurance coverage for the entire duration of the internship. Proof of valid insurance must be submitted before the start date. UNFPA does not provide health insurance or cover medical expenses for interns.
Application Process
Interested candidates should apply online via the UNFPA recruitment portal. Please ensure your application includes:
- A resume/CV
- A cover letter outlining your interest in the position and relevant qualifications
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. Due to the high volume of applications, feedback will not be provided to unsuccessful applicants.
Application Deadline: Monday, 26 May 2025
To apply, click here.
For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram
Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
