Apply for the UNDP Inclusive Growth Internship Programme: 2 International Remote Roles & 1 Local in-Person Placement

UNDP Inclusive Growth Internship Programme: Opportunities Across Africa

Overview of the UNDP Inclusive Growth Internship

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering three internship opportunities under its Inclusive Growth Programme, designed to support Africa’s economic transformation agenda.

The positions include two international remote roles and one local in-person placement, providing flexibility for candidates across different locations.

Hosted within the Regional Bureau for Africa, this internship programme is tailored for students and recent graduates interested in development policy, economic transformation, and regional integration. The application deadline is 24 April 2026, with roles beginning shortly after selection.

UNDP’s Strategic Focus on Inclusive Development

UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries, working to reduce poverty and inequality while advancing sustainable human development. Its 2026–2029 Strategic Plan centers on four interconnected priorities:

• Prosperity for all
• Effective governance
• Crisis resilience
• A healthy planet

These priorities are supported by key accelerators such as digital transformation, gender equality, and sustainable finance. In Africa, UNDP adopts a systems-based approach, addressing complex challenges like economic transition, climate change, and governance reform through integrated solutions.

Role of the Regional Service Centre for Africa

The internship is based within UNDP’s Regional Service Centre for Africa (RSCA), located in Addis Ababa. The centre supports 46 country offices across sub-Saharan Africa and serves as a key partner to institutions such as the African Union and regional economic communities.

Within RSCA, the Inclusive Growth and Extractives Team (IGET) drives initiatives focused on economic resilience and structural transformation. Interns will work within this team, contributing to projects aligned with Africa’s long-term development frameworks, including Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Key Thematic Areas of the Internship

Successful candidates will be assigned to one of three thematic areas, depending on programme needs and individual strengths.

Blue Economy and Climate-Resilient Growth

The Blue Economy is emerging as a major driver of sustainable growth in Africa, particularly for coastal and island nations. Interns in this stream will support initiatives that link economic development with environmental sustainability.

Responsibilities include:

• Researching Blue Economy value chains and climate-trade linkages
• Supporting preparations for Africa Blue Economy Week (ABEW) 2026
• Assisting with policy briefs, concept notes, and technical documents
• Coordinating with stakeholders such as governments and regional bodies
• Producing knowledge and communication materials on sustainable ocean economies

This area offers exposure to policy processes at the intersection of climate resilience, trade, and regional development.

Development Planning and Governance Systems

Interns in this stream will support efforts to strengthen national development planning across Africa. Development plans are treated as key instruments for governance, accountability, and transformation.

Key tasks include:

• Supporting the Continental Development Plans Register
• Assisting in applying the Development Plan-Use Audit Framework
• Managing data related to SDG and Agenda 2063 integration
• Preparing analytical reports, dashboards, and policy briefs
• Supporting pilot programmes and institutional knowledge systems

This track provides experience in policy analysis, governance systems, and development planning frameworks.

Inclusive Regional Value Chains and Trade Integration

This thematic area focuses on strengthening Africa’s participation in regional and global markets through inclusive value chains under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Interns will:

• Support development of a Regional Value Chains Toolkit
• Conduct research on SMEs, informal sector upgrading, and gender inclusion
• Participate in stakeholder consultations with governments and private sector actors
• Draft technical reports on production systems and market integration
• Contribute to policy development on regional economic transformation

This stream offers practical exposure to trade policy, industrial development, and inclusive economic systems.

Core Responsibilities Across All Roles

Regardless of specialization, all interns will:

• Conduct research and data analysis for policy and programme development
• Draft reports, briefing notes, and knowledge products
• Participate in team meetings and collaborative discussions
• Support administrative and coordination processes
• Assist in organizing and maintaining project documentation

The internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in international development within a multilateral environment.

Required Skills and Competencies

UNDP seeks candidates who are motivated, analytical, and committed to global development values. Key competencies include:

• Strong research and analytical skills
• Ability to organize and synthesize complex information
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities
• Initiative and adaptability in dynamic environments
• Cultural sensitivity and openness to diverse perspectives

Additional advantages include familiarity with the SDGs, experience in development research, and skills in communications or graphic design.

Eligibility Criteria and Academic Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled in a postgraduate programme (e.g., Master’s degree), or
• Have recently completed a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Public Policy, Development Studies, or a related field

Selected candidates must begin the internship within one year of graduation. While prior work experience is not required, exposure to international development is considered an asset.

Language and Application Requirements

• Fluency in English is required
• Knowledge of French is desirable, particularly for international candidates

Applicants must submit:

• An updated CV
• A cover letter in English
• Proof of academic qualifications

Work Structure and Opportunities

The internship offers a mix of remote and in-person opportunities, allowing candidates from across Africa and beyond to participate. It provides valuable exposure to:

• Regional policy advisory work
• Multi-stakeholder coordination
• International development programming
• Continental economic transformation strategies

Call for Action

The UNDP Inclusive Growth Internship Programme presents a unique opportunity for aspiring development professionals to gain practical experience in Africa’s economic transformation agenda. Through involvement in policy research, programme support, and stakeholder engagement, interns will contribute to initiatives that promote inclusive growth, regional integration, and sustainable development across the continent.

For candidates interested in international development careers, this internship offers both meaningful impact and a strong foundation for future roles within global organizations.

APPLY HERE

For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel

Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs 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.